Wisdom Tooth Pain: A Complete Guide to Causes, Relief, and Treatment

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically appearing in our late teens or early twenties. While for some they arrive without issue, for many others, their arrival is marked by significant pain and discomfort. This pain is often a signal that something is wrong. From an evolutionary perspective, our ancestors relied on these extra molars to process tough, fibrous plant materials, but modern diets and reduced jaw sizes have rendered them largely unnecessary for most people today. As a result, the oral cavity often lacks the physical space required for proper eruption, setting the stage for a cascade of dental complications that require careful management.

This comprehensive guide synthesizes information from leading health authorities, recent studies, and dental experts to explain the causes of wisdom tooth pain, how to find temporary relief, and what professional treatments are available. We will explore the anatomical factors at play, differentiate between benign discomfort and urgent clinical conditions, and provide evidence-based strategies for both at-home care and professional intervention.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified dental professional for any health concerns or before starting any treatment.

How to Know If a Wisdom Tooth Is Causing Your Pain

Pain from a wisdom tooth can range from a dull, persistent ache to a sharp, throbbing sensation. According to the Mayo Clinic, common symptoms that point to a problematic wisdom tooth include:

• Pain in the Back of the Mouth: A dull or throbbing ache located behind your last molars. This discomfort often intensifies when biting down or chewing, and may radiate along the dental arch.
• Jaw Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort in the jaw that may make it difficult to open your mouth wide (a condition known as trismus). Trismus occurs when the muscles of mastication become inflamed or spasm due to underlying dental infection or surgical trauma.
• Gum Inflammation: Gums around the wisdom tooth area may become red, swollen, tender, or even bleed. Chronic gingival irritation is one of the earliest clinical signs of an emerging or impacted third molar.
• Swelling: Noticeable swelling around the jaw or in the cheeks. Facial asymmetry may develop if inflammation extends into the surrounding fascial spaces.
• Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Trapped food and bacteria can lead to infection, causing persistent bad breath (halitosis) or a foul taste in your mouth. This is frequently associated with localized plaque accumulation and anaerobic bacterial proliferation.
• Referred Pain: The pressure and inflammation can cause headaches or earaches. The trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) innervates the teeth, jaw, and facial structures; irritation in one branch can manifest as pain in seemingly unrelated areas like the temples or external ear canal.

To accurately identify the source, patients can perform a gentle visual inspection using a mirror and good lighting. Look for a partially visible tooth crown, swollen tissue flaps, or localized redness. Avoid aggressive probing, which can exacerbate tissue trauma or push bacteria deeper into the periodontal pockets. Dental professionals typically confirm the diagnosis through clinical examination combined with radiographic imaging, which reveals the exact angulation and root development of the tooth beneath the gum line.

Image Source: Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona

The Core Reasons Your Wisdom Tooth Hurts

Understanding why your wisdom tooth hurts is the first step toward finding a solution. The pain is rarely just "growing pains" and often stems from a few key issues. The pathophysiology of third molar pain involves mechanical pressure, bacterial colonization, inflammatory mediators, and sometimes systemic immune responses. Below, we examine the primary clinical drivers of discomfort in detail.

1. Impaction: The Most Common Culprit

The most frequent cause of wisdom tooth pain is impaction. This occurs when there isn't enough space in the jaw for the tooth to erupt properly. An impacted tooth can become trapped under the gum line or grow at an awkward angle.

According to the Mayo Clinic, an impacted tooth may:

• Grow at an angle toward the neighboring tooth (second molar).
• Grow at an angle toward the back of the mouth.
• Grow at a right angle, as if "lying down" within the jawbone.
• Grow straight but remain trapped within the jawbone.

In clinical dentistry, impaction is classified by both angulation and depth of tissue coverage. Mesioangular impactions (tilted toward the front of the mouth) are the most prevalent, followed by vertical, horizontal, and distoangular variants. The depth is categorized as soft tissue impaction (partially covered by gingiva), partial bony impaction (partially surrounded by alveolar bone), or complete bony impaction (fully encased in jawbone).

This pressure can damage adjacent teeth, leading to cavities, gum disease, and even root resorption (where the tooth structure dissolves). As the third molar pushes against the second molar, it creates a niche where plaque accumulation is nearly impossible to control, accelerating periodontal breakdown and compromising the structural integrity of both teeth.

2. Pericoronitis: A Painful Gum Infection

When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, it can create a small flap of gum tissue called an operculum. Food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped under this flap, leading to a painful infection and inflammation known as pericoronitis. Symptoms are acute and include severe pain, swelling, a bad taste, and difficulty swallowing.

Pericoronitis is fundamentally a polymicrobial infection involving anaerobic and microaerophilic bacteria that thrive in low-oxygen environments. The condition can be acute (sudden, severe, and localized) or chronic (low-grade, recurring discomfort). If left untreated, acute pericoronitis can spread into the submandibular, sublingual, or submasseteric spaces, potentially leading to Ludwig's angina—a life-threatening, rapidly spreading cellulitis of the floor of the mouth. Early intervention is critical to prevent systemic complications.

3. Cavities and Tooth Decay

Wisdom teeth are located in the far back of the mouth, making them notoriously difficult to clean. This poor accessibility increases the risk of plaque buildup, leading to cavities that can cause significant pain if they reach the tooth's nerve.

Enamel on third molars is subject to the same demineralization-remineralization cycles as other teeth, but the lack of salivary flushing and limited brush reach accelerates caries progression. Deep occlusal or proximal lesions can penetrate the dentin tubules, causing sharp sensitivity to thermal stimuli (hot or cold) and sugary foods. Once bacteria breach the pulp chamber, irreversible pulpitis or apical periodontitis develops, often manifesting as spontaneous, throbbing pain that disrupts sleep and daily function.

4. Cysts and Tumors

In rarer cases, a fluid-filled sac called a cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. This cyst can damage the jawbone, nerves, and nearby teeth. While usually benign, these growths require professional treatment.

The most common lesion is a dentigerous cyst, which forms around the crown of an unerupted tooth due to fluid accumulation between the reduced enamel epithelium and the crown surface. Over time, these cysts can expand silently, resorbing surrounding bone and causing facial asymmetry, nerve paresthesia, or pathological fractures. Odontogenic tumors like ameloblastomas, though rare, can also originate in third molar regions and necessitate surgical resection and long-term monitoring.

Is It Normal Discomfort or a Serious Problem?

It's crucial to distinguish between the mild, temporary discomfort of a normally erupting tooth and the signs of a pathological problem.

Normal Eruption Discomfort	Signs of a Pathological Problem (See a Dentist)
Dull, mild ache that comes and goes.	Severe, throbbing, or persistent pain.
Slight gum tenderness and swelling.	Significant swelling of the gums, cheek, or jaw.
Lasts for a few days at a time.	Pain that worsens over time.
Discomfort when chewing.	Difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing, or breathing.
	Pus or discharge from the gum line.
	Fever, which indicates a spreading infection.

When symptoms cross the threshold from mild to moderate or severe, home management is no longer sufficient. Persistent pain lasting longer than a week, progressive trismus, or the presence of systemic symptoms (fatigue, fever, lymphadenopathy) warrants immediate clinical evaluation. Delaying treatment can convert a straightforward extraction into a complex surgical case requiring extended recovery time and additional interventions.

When You Must See a Dentist

While home remedies can offer temporary relief, they do not solve the underlying problem. You should schedule a dental appointment promptly if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.

Seek urgent dental care if you have:

• Severe, unbearable pain that isn't managed by over-the-counter medication.
• Signs of a spreading infection, such as fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes under your jaw.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Pus draining from the area.

A dentist will perform an examination and take X-rays to diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action. The diagnostic process typically begins with a comprehensive extraoral and intraoral assessment, evaluating facial symmetry, lymph node status, mouth opening capacity, and gingival health. Panoramic radiography (OPG) provides a broad view of the entire dentition and jaw structure, allowing clinicians to assess tooth angulation, root morphology, and proximity to critical anatomical landmarks like the inferior alveolar nerve and maxillary sinus. In complex cases, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) may be ordered to create a 3D reconstruction of the jaw, minimizing surgical risks by mapping exact nerve pathways and bone density.

During the consultation, your provider will review your medical history, current medications, and any allergies to anesthesia or antibiotics. This information is vital for tailoring a safe and effective treatment plan. Patients with bleeding disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or those on bisphosphonates require specialized protocols to prevent excessive bleeding or medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Open communication ensures that all risk factors are mitigated before any procedural intervention.

At-Home Remedies for Temporary Wisdom Tooth Pain Relief

For immediate but temporary relief while you wait for your dental appointment, several home remedies can help manage the pain and inflammation. It is important to remember that these strategies are palliative, not curative. They reduce symptom severity but do not address mechanical impaction, bacterial infection, or structural decay.

• Saltwater Rinse: A warm saltwater rinse is a natural disinfectant that can help reduce gum inflammation and cleanse the area. Mix one teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swish for 30-60 seconds. The osmotic gradient created by the saline solution draws excess fluid out of inflamed tissues, reducing edema and discomfort. Perform this 3–4 times daily, especially after meals, to keep the surgical or eruptive site clean. Avoid vigorous swishing if there is open tissue or bleeding; gentle circulation is more effective.
• Cold Compress: Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your cheek for 15-20 minutes can help numb the area and reduce swelling. Cryotherapy constricts local blood vessels, decreasing inflammatory mediator release and slowing nerve conduction velocity. Follow a 20-minutes-on, 20-minutes-off cycle to prevent skin irritation or frostbite. Do not apply heat during the acute inflammatory phase (first 48 hours), as it can exacerbate swelling and pain.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Relievers: A 2025 study highlighted by Rutgers Health found that a combination of ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) is more effective for dental pain than opioids. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and thereby decreasing inflammation and pain signaling. Acetaminophen acts centrally in the brain to elevate the pain threshold without significant anti-inflammatory effects.
  • The 3-3-3 Rule: Some dentists suggest a temporary regimen known as the "3-3-3 rule" for severe toothache: taking three 200mg ibuprofen tablets (600mg total), three times a day, for up to three days. Always consult your doctor or dentist before starting this regimen. This protocol should never be used by individuals with peptic ulcers, renal impairment, cardiovascular disease, or those taking anticoagulants. Alternate dosing schedules (e.g., 400mg ibuprofen every 6 hours staggered with 500mg acetaminophen) can maintain steady blood concentrations and optimize analgesia.
• Clove Oil: Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and place it gently on the sore gum area for temporary numbing. Eugenol has been used in dentistry for over a century due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and mild analgesic properties. Dilute pure clove oil with a carrier oil (like olive or coconut oil) in a 1:2 ratio to prevent chemical burns or mucosal irritation. Do not swallow the oil, as high doses of eugenol can be toxic to the liver.
• Numbing Gel: Over-the-counter dental numbing gels containing benzocaine can provide short-term pain relief when applied directly to the gums. Use sparingly, as excessive application can lead to methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious condition where the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity is reduced. Avoid use in children under two years old and follow package instructions strictly.

In addition to topical and pharmacological approaches, dietary modifications play a significant role in managing wisdom tooth discomfort. Stick to soft, cool, or room-temperature foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, spicy, or highly acidic foods that can traumatize inflamed tissues or become lodged under gum flaps. Maintain adequate hydration with water, herbal teas, or electrolyte solutions, but avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages, which can dehydrate tissues or irritate exposed nerves. Elevating your head with extra pillows while sleeping reduces cephalad blood flow, minimizing throbbing pain and nocturnal edema.

Image Source: Shawnessy Dental Centre

Professional Treatments for Wisdom Tooth Pain

Your dentist will determine the best treatment based on their diagnosis. The choice of intervention depends on the patient's age, symptom severity, radiographic findings, and overall oral health status.

• Wisdom Tooth Extraction: This is the most common and permanent solution for impacted or problematic wisdom teeth. The procedure is performed by a dentist or oral surgeon, often with local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Simple extractions involve loosening the tooth with an elevator and removing it with forceps once the periodontal ligament is detached. Surgical extractions are required for impacted teeth and involve a small gingival incision, bone removal (osteotomy) with a surgical handpiece, tooth sectioning if necessary, and primary closure with resorbable sutures. The entire process typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on complexity.
• Antibiotics: If an infection like pericoronitis is present, your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear it up before performing an extraction. Common first-line agents include amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, or clindamycin (for penicillin-allergic patients). Antibiotics reduce acute bacterial load and inflammation, making local anesthesia more effective and lowering the risk of postoperative complications. They should always be taken exactly as prescribed, completing the full course even if symptoms resolve early.
• Operculectomy: In some cases of pericoronitis, the dentist may remove the flap of gum tissue covering the tooth to prevent further food impaction and infection. This minor procedure can be performed with a scalpel, electrosurgery unit, or dental laser. While it resolves the immediate soft tissue barrier, it does not address underlying bony impaction, and the tissue may regrow over time, necessitating eventual extraction.

The Extraction Debate: To Pull or Not to Pull Asymptomatic Teeth?

A common question is whether wisdom teeth should be removed proactively to prevent future problems, even if they aren't causing symptoms. This is a point of debate in the dental community.

• Watchful Waiting: Many dental professionals now favor a "watchful waiting" approach for asymptomatic, disease-free wisdom teeth. This involves monitoring the teeth with regular check-ups and X-rays to intervene only if problems arise. Guidelines from organizations like the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) support this conservative stance, emphasizing that routine prophylactic removal of disease-free impacted third molars does not significantly reduce future pathology in all cases and carries inherent surgical risks.
• Prophylactic Extraction: Proponents of early removal argue it can prevent predictable future issues like pain, infection, and damage to adjacent molars. A 2023 study found a clear link between impacted wisdom teeth and cavities and gum disease on the neighboring second molars. Extraction is often easier in younger patients (ages 17–25) when roots are not fully formed, bone is more flexible, and healing capacity is optimal. Delaying surgery into later decades can increase the likelihood of nerve proximity, denser bone, and prolonged recovery.

The decision is best made on a case-by-case basis after a thorough discussion with your dentist about your individual risk factors. Orthodontic history, oral hygiene compliance, systemic health, and radiographic progression all inform the clinical recommendation. Shared decision-making ensures that patients understand the risks of intervention versus the risks of non-intervention.

Post-extraction care is a critical component of professional treatment. Immediately following surgery, patients should bite firmly on gauze for 30–60 minutes to stabilize the blood clot. For the first 24 hours, avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, or using straws, as the resulting negative pressure can dislodge the clot and cause alveolar osteitis, commonly known as dry socket. Dry socket occurs when the protective fibrin matrix is lost, exposing raw bone and nerves to air, food, and fluids. It typically presents 2–4 days post-op with severe, radiating pain that OTC medications cannot adequately control and is treated with medicated dressings placed directly into the socket by a dental professional.

Swelling usually peaks at 48–72 hours and gradually subsides. A gradual transition from ice to warm compresses after day three promotes circulation and tissue healing. Sutures typically dissolve within 7–10 days, though non-resorbable types require removal at a follow-up visit. Maintaining a soft diet, practicing gentle saline rinses after day two, and adhering to prescribed analgesics significantly improve patient comfort and accelerate recovery timelines.

Can Wisdom Tooth Pain Be Prevented?

While you can't prevent impaction if your jaw is too small, you can take steps to avoid complications like infection and decay. Prevention strategies focus on maximizing oral hygiene in the posterior dentition, monitoring developmental progression, and intervening early when warning signs appear.

• Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush thoroughly twice a day and pay special attention to the back of your mouth. An electric toothbrush or a smaller-headed manual brush can help reach the area. Use a fluoride-containing toothpaste to strengthen enamel and inhibit acid-producing bacterial metabolism. Pay particular attention to the distal surfaces of the second molars, which are highly susceptible to decay when third molars are partially erupted.
• Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash: Rinsing with a mouthwash can help kill bacteria in hard-to-reach places. Chlorhexidine gluconate (0.12%) is highly effective against plaque and gingivitis but should be used short-term (1–2 weeks) to prevent tooth staining and altered taste perception. Alcohol-free alternatives with cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) or essential oils offer sustainable daily maintenance without mucosal irritation.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Consistent visits allow your dentist to monitor your wisdom teeth with X-rays and catch potential problems before they become painful. Panoramic imaging is typically performed every 2–3 years during late adolescence and early adulthood to track eruption trajectory and root development. Professional cleanings remove calculus and plaque biofilm from subgingival areas that daily brushing cannot access, significantly reducing the risk of pericoronitis and periodontal breakdown around emerging third molars.
• Utilize Interdental Cleaning Tools: Supplement brushing with dental floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers. A curved-tip flosser or small interdental brush can navigate around the distal aspect of the second molar and beneath partially erupted wisdom tooth flaps. Water flossers on a low setting can gently flush out debris from periodontal pockets without causing tissue trauma.
• Monitor for Early Warning Signs: Keep a symptom diary if you experience intermittent discomfort. Note triggers (certain foods, biting pressure, temperature changes), duration, and response to home care. Early reporting to your dental provider allows for minimally invasive interventions before the condition progresses to acute infection or structural damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does wisdom tooth pain typically last?

Wisdom tooth pain duration varies significantly based on the underlying cause. If the discomfort stems from routine eruption without complications, it may last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, fluctuating in intensity as the tooth breaks through the gingival tissue. However, if the pain is caused by impaction, pericoronitis, or advanced decay, it will persist and likely worsen without professional treatment. Post-extraction pain generally follows a predictable timeline: acute discomfort peaks within 48 hours, transitions to mild soreness by days 4–5, and typically resolves within 10–14 days. Chronic or severe pain that does not respond to conservative management should always be evaluated promptly to rule out infection or nerve involvement.

Can wisdom teeth cause headaches or earaches?

Yes, wisdom tooth pain frequently manifests as referred pain to the head, neck, temples, or ears. The trigeminal nerve network extensively innervates the maxillofacial region, meaning that inflammation or pressure from an impacted third molar can send pain signals along shared neural pathways. Patients often mistake dental-origin headaches for tension-type headaches or migraines. Additionally, swelling in the posterior maxilla or mandible can exert pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or adjacent musculature, leading to jaw tension that further contributes to cephalic pain. If headaches correlate with dental tenderness, gum swelling, or jaw stiffness, a dental evaluation is warranted to address the primary source rather than relying solely on analgesics.

Is it safe to use aspirin directly on a wisdom tooth for pain?

No, placing aspirin directly against the gum or tooth is strongly discouraged. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) must be swallowed to exert its systemic analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. When applied topically to oral mucosa, it causes a chemical burn known as aspirin burn or chemical stomatitis. This results in localized tissue necrosis, white or grayish patches, severe pain, and delayed healing, which can complicate future dental procedures. Always take aspirin orally as directed with a full glass of water, and use it cautiously, as it can interfere with blood clotting and increase postoperative bleeding risk.

What is the difference between a dentist and an oral surgeon for wisdom tooth removal?

General dentists are trained to perform simple extractions on fully or partially erupted teeth that have accessible crowns and straightforward root anatomy. They handle many wisdom tooth removals successfully when clinical and radiographic assessments indicate a low complexity. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS), on the other hand, undergo 4–6 years of specialized surgical residency training after dental school. They are equipped to manage deeply impacted teeth, complex root configurations, teeth in close proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve, and patients requiring advanced sedation or general anesthesia. OMS also manage medical comorbidities and surgical complications. Your general dentist will typically refer you to a specialist if imaging reveals high risk, or if you prefer deeper sedation for anxiety management.

How long should I wait to eat normally after wisdom tooth extraction?

Recovery timelines are individualized, but most patients can gradually transition from a liquid and soft-food diet to semi-solid foods within 3–5 days, and to a regular diet within 7–10 days. The key is to listen to your body and avoid disrupting the healing socket. During the first week, steer clear of crunchy, chewy, spicy, or extremely hot foods that can mechanically traumatize the tissue or stimulate pain receptors. Small food particles like rice, seeds, or popcorn kernels should be avoided entirely, as they can become embedded in the extraction site and cause localized infection or granuloma formation. Gentle chewing on the contralateral side and thorough post-meal saline rinses (after 24 hours) support smooth progression back to normal eating habits without complications.

When can I brush and floss my teeth after surgery?

Oral hygiene should be modified, not abandoned, following wisdom tooth extraction. On the day of surgery, avoid brushing near the surgical site and do not rinse vigorously. Beginning 24 hours post-op, resume gentle brushing of the anterior and non-surgical posterior teeth using a soft-bristled brush. Carefully clean around, but not directly over, the extraction sockets. Flossing can continue normally in unaffected areas. Starting on day two, incorporate warm saltwater rinses after meals and before bed to flush away debris and promote healing. By days 5–7, as tissue closure advances and tenderness subsides, you can gradually return to your standard brushing and flossing routine, including the surgical area, using light pressure to avoid disturbing the maturing clot or healing granulation tissue.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth pain is a highly prevalent dental concern that stems from evolutionary anatomical mismatches, bacterial colonization, and mechanical impaction within a confined oral cavity. Recognizing the difference between benign eruption discomfort and clinically significant pathology is essential for timely intervention. Symptoms like severe throbbing, progressive trismus, facial swelling, systemic fever, or localized pus are clear indicators that professional evaluation cannot be delayed. While at-home remedies such as saline rinses, cold therapy, and carefully monitored OTC analgesic regimens provide valuable temporary relief, they are strictly palliative measures designed to bridge the gap until definitive treatment can be administered.

The decision to extract, monitor, or treat conservatively should be guided by comprehensive radiographic imaging, individual risk profiling, and a collaborative discussion between patient and clinician. Advances in dental imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and evidence-based pain management protocols have made wisdom tooth care safer, more predictable, and significantly more comfortable than in previous decades. Postoperative adherence to clot protection, dietary modifications, and gradual hygiene resumption remains the cornerstone of uncomplicated healing. By prioritizing consistent dental monitoring, maintaining meticulous oral hygiene, and responding promptly to early warning signs, patients can effectively manage third molar health, preserve adjacent dental structures, and maintain long-term oral function. When in doubt, always seek the expertise of a licensed dental professional who can provide a personalized diagnostic assessment and tailored treatment pathway.

References

1. Mayo Clinic. (2024, February 1). Impacted wisdom teeth - Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/symptoms-causes/syc-20373808
2. Medical News Today. (2020, January 7). Wisdom tooth pain: Causes, home treatment, and prevention. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319461
3. Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona. How to Ease Throbbing Wisdom Tooth Pain. https://www.oralsurgeryarizona.com/soothe-a-throbbing-wisdom-tooth/
4. SciTechDaily. (2025, January 12). Study Reveals Tylenol and Advil Outperform Opioids for Wisdom Tooth Pain. https://scitechdaily.com/study-reveals-tylenol-and-advil-outperform-opioids-for-wisdom-tooth-pain/
5. Belam, A., et al. (2023). Evaluation of detrimental effects of impacted Mandibular third molars on adjacent second molars. Journal of Conservative Dentistry, 26(1), 104–107. Referenced in Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/dentistry/specialties/surgery/story/impacted-teeth-symptoms-risks-treatment