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Wisdom Tooth
Dental Expert

Signs Your Wisdom Tooth Might Be Striking a Nerve: What You Need to Know

By Dr. Kinnar Shah | Cosmetic Dentist & Implant Mentor | SmileConcepts Sydney
11 Aug 2025

Wisdom tooth pain gets our attention in ways few dental woes can. Perhaps you’re nursing a dull ache at the back of your jaw or feeling a strange tingling that simply won’t quiet down. Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars, often stir up problems as they try to break through. Not everyone faces issues, but when an impacted wisdom tooth presses on a nerve, it’s a different story altogether.

At SmileConcepts, we meet people who are worried that their wisdom tooth pain comes from a nerve being irritated or compressed. You want clear, expert advice but without confusing medical terms or endless paragraphs. Let’s talk through the facts together.

Who can be affected, and what actually happens?

Wisdom teeth usually arrive between the ages of 17 and 25, but can show up earlier or later. Sometimes, there’s not enough room in the jaw for these newcomers. That’s when an impacted wisdom tooth, the kind stuck under the gum or against another tooth- can push against the nerve running through your jaw.

That nerve? It’s called the inferior alveolar nerve. When squeezed, it sends warning signals: numbness, tingling, pain, or even a loss of feeling in your teeth, gums, lips, or chin. It’s unsettling and frequently makes you worry things will get worse.

Typical signs we watch for:

  • Sharp or shooting pain that starts at the back of your jaw and spreads.
  • Tingling or “pins and needles” in your lower lip, chin, or tongue.
  • Numbness that doesn’t go away.
  • Difficulty chewing, speaking, or moving your jaw.

Do you think your wisdom tooth is causing these symptoms? Always talk with a dentist. No online guide replaces an expert opinion, especially when nerves could be involved.

“Sometimes the difference between discomfort and real harm is just a millimetre or two. In dentistry, precision really matters.”

Why do nerves get affected by wisdom teeth?

The growing wisdom tooth presses or wraps itself around the nerve channel. If the roots reach out close to the nerve, the risk climbs even higher. Our 3-D scanning technology at SmileConcepts pinpoints the exact tooth position, helping us plan safe wisdom tooth extraction.

But is every instance of wisdom tooth pain a nerve issue? Not at all. More often, the pain comes from pressure, inflammation, or infection, rather than the nerve itself. Still, it’s always wise to check.

Warning flags you shouldn’t ignore:

  • Sudden change in sensation in your lip or chin.
  • Uneven smile or movement in your mouth.
  • Constant, throbbing pain that’s getting worse.
  • Swelling or fever.

If any of these happen, bring it up straight away.

How do we diagnose the problem?

When you come into our clinic with these symptoms, here’s how we handle it:

  • We talk through your pain: Where does it start? How long does it last? Any changes in sensation?
  • Visual and touch examination: Swelling, redness, and tenderness help us spot trouble.
  • Digital X-rays and sometimes a CT scan: These show exactly how close your wisdom tooth is to the nerve.

Once we know what’s causing the pain, we can recommend the safest route forward.

Dealing with an impacted wisdom tooth pressing on a nerve

Nerve involvement always makes us extra careful. In some cases, we might suggest delaying removal, closely monitoring, or using advanced extraction techniques that avoid nerve damage. Sometimes, a sectioning method lets us take out the tooth in smaller pieces, easing the strain on delicate nerves. SmileConcepts has an inhouse MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON (specialist) who does the wisdom teeth surgery, so you’re in the hands of the most experienced surgeon for any complex or near-the-nerve wisdom teeth removals.

What can you expect from wisdom teeth removal cost?

Wisdom tooth extraction isn’t the same for everyone. The price depends on complexity, location, and if advanced imaging or surgical tools are needed. At SmileConcepts, you’re always clear on cost before any treatment begins.

What to do before your appointment?

If you’re in pain, try these steps while you wait:

  • Rinse gently with warm salty water.
  • Stick to soft foods, avoid anything crusty or chewy.
  • Use a cold pack on your cheek to ease swelling.
  • Avoid poking or pressing the sore gum area.
  • If advised, take over-the-counter pain relief.

But if your lip or chin becomes numb, swelling shoots up, or the pain is severe or constant, come to us right away. Quick action helps prevent longer-term nerve problems.

Key Differences – Regular Pain vs. Nerve Involvement

SymptomNormal Wisdom Tooth PainNerve Involvement
LocationLocalised near toothSpreads to lip, chin, or tongue
Type of painThrobbing/achingTingling, sharp, or numbing pain
Response to painkillers Often improvesMay not respond well
Other signsSwelling, red gumsLoss of feeling or regular numbness

Wisdom teeth removal: Why trust SmileConcepts?

With decades of experience, we use computer-guided 3D technology, digital X-rays, and the gentlest techniques. Our team ensures your comfort, minimising stress and maximising safety. We talk you through every step, no long waits, no uncertainty.

A difficult wisdom tooth shouldn’t steal your peace of mind. A caring, experienced dental team can make all the difference between uncertainty and relief. Whether it’s a simple removal or a case close to the nerve, we’re with you for every step.

FAQs

Can an impacted wisdom tooth heal on its own?

An impacted tooth rarely changes position itself and can cause ongoing problems if not checked.

Is numbness permanent if my nerve is affected?

In many cases, sensation returns over time, but early treatment is essential to avoid long-term effects.

Is wisdom tooth pain always a sign of nerve involvement?

No. Most wisdom tooth pain happens due to pressure and inflammation, not direct nerve contact.

How do you reduce nerve damage risk during extraction?

We use 3D scans and specialised techniques to plan and perform safe removals, always aiming to avoid nerve injury.

What will wisdom teeth removal cost me?

Price varies depending on complexity. We always discuss costs clearly before starting treatment.

We know wisdom tooth pain can be unsettling. If you need expert care or even just some advice, SmileConcepts is here to help you smile again.

Smile Concepts is a high-end dental clinic in the heart of Sydney. To deliver the best service, we always prioritise your wellbeing so we can use our expertise to help you live a better life.

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Dr Manish Shah

Dr. Manish Shah is a cosmetic dentist with a special interest in porcelain veneers, dental implants and Invisalign in Sydney. 

Dr Kinnar Shah
BDS (Gla)

Dr. Kinnar Shah is a cosmetic dentist with a special interest in cometic dentistry, porcelain veneers and dental implants practising at Smile Concepts.