If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Wisdom Tooth Pain and Infection in Seattle
Pain at the very back of the mouth often comes from a wisdom tooth that has only partly come in, with sore gum tissue around it. Dr. Jaime Lee evaluates wisdom tooth pain at Smile Art on First Hill and removes wisdom teeth that have fully come in or are partly covered by bone.
When does wisdom tooth pain need a same-day visit?
Call the same day for swelling, a bad taste, pain that keeps you up, or trouble opening your mouth. If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, go to an emergency room right away.
What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?
For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:
"For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues."
"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."
Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".
Why do wisdom teeth hurt?
Wisdom teeth often arrive in a space that is too small for them, leaving them tilted or partly covered by gum. Food trapped under that gum can lead to soreness and infection. A tilted wisdom tooth can also push against or cause decay in the molar beside it.
What happens after the visit?
If removal is recommended, Dr. Lee schedules it and explains recovery. If the tooth can stay, she checks it at your routine visits so problems are caught early.
What does Dr. Lee do for a painful wisdom tooth?
She examines the area and takes X-rays to see the tooth's position and roots. She then explains whether the tooth should be removed at Smile Art, monitored, or referred to an oral surgeon if it is completely encased in the jawbone.
Related care: Wisdom tooth removal, Tooth extractions.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Does a painful wisdom tooth always need to come out?
Not always. Dr. Lee explains whether removal is the best choice for your tooth.
Does Dr. Lee remove wisdom teeth?
She removes those that have fully come in or are partly covered by bone, and refers teeth completely encased in the jawbone.
Why does the gum over my wisdom tooth swell?
Food and bacteria can collect under gum tissue that partly covers a wisdom tooth, causing soreness and swelling.
Can I wait for a regular appointment?
Swelling, a bad taste, or trouble opening your mouth should be checked promptly.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.