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Gently massaging a clean (sanitized) finger back and forth or in small circles over your tender gums can provide temporary relief. Be careful not to rub too hard because you could disrupt or damage the pericoronal flap and trigger more irritation, swelling and/or bleeding. If you can tolerate it, use a small ice cube to combat inflammation and dull the pain. The ice will feel shockingly cold initially, but the tissue around the erupting wisdom tooth should get numb within five or so minutes. You can use ice three to five times daily or as needed to deal with tenderness. Make sure to trim your fingernails and sanitize your finger with alcohol wipes in order to prevent transferring bacteria onto your gums. You can make an infected wisdom tooth worse if you don't practice good hygiene. Ask your dentist if he can recommend a desensitizing cream or ointment that you can massage into your inflamed gums. Using cold compresses and sucking on frozen treats (Popsicle, sorbet or ice cream) may also help soothe tender gums. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is a good anti-inflammatory that can combat pain and swelling associated with a symptomatic wisdom tooth. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a good painkiller and a strong antipyretic, which means it can fight a fever, but it doesn't impact inflammation. The maximum daily dosage of ibuprofen and acetaminophen for adults is about 3,000 mg, but always read the directions that come with medications. Taking too much ibuprofen (or taking it for too long) can irritate and damage the stomach and kidneys, so take the medication with food. Taking too much acetaminophen is toxic and damaging to the liver. Alcohol should never be combined with acetaminophen. Using an antiseptic or antibacterial mouthwash can help treat or prevent infections and pain in the gums and teeth. Mouthwashes with chlorhexidine, for example, can help to both relieve swelling and pain, and keep your mouth free of infection. Ask your dentist or pharmacist for OTC recommendations. Whichever brand you choose, hold it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds and try to swish it around the back of your mouth where the erupting wisdom teeth are. Swishing around the pericoronal flaps may also help remove any trapped food, plaque or debris. Make a natural and inexpensive antiseptic mouthwash by adding a half-teaspoon of table salt or sea salt to a cup of warm water. Gargle for 30 seconds, then spit and repeat three to five times daily or as needed. Gargling with diluted vinegar, fresh lemon juice, diluted hydrogen peroxide or with a few drops of iodine in water are all effective for combating infections in your mouth. Wormwood tea is also a great adjuvant that helps gums fight with the inflammatory process.
Massage your gums with your finger or some ice. Take over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatories or painkillers. Use antiseptic mouthwash.