Wisdom tooth on lower left side of jaw growing in. swollen in that area & annoying discomfort in gums of that area. gum feels like its lifted in area?

Erupting Wisdom: That's exactly what happens as a lower wisdom tooth is erupting. The question, however, is whether or not that wisdom tooth is coming in straight as well as if there's enough room for it to come it. This warrants you seeing your own dentist for an exam and x-ray to determine that. If the tooth cannot come into it's intended position, it would be better to remove it early rather than suffering.

Inflammation: Sometimes the gum flap over an erupting wisdom tooth can become inflamed, especially if the tooth is partially impacted. Please call your dentist for an emergency examination. Referral to an oral surgeon to remove the flap of tissue or the tooth itself.

Typical symptoms: You are 18 and well within the age range of wisdom tooth eruption. It might be smart to get some xrays as the age of 18-24 is the optimal time for tooth removal.

Needs extraction: Get x-ray, preferably cone beam or 3d to evaluate for probable extraction.

Dentist/oral surgeon: You may have some infection that has started to form, or it may be the tooth erupting...But i would see your dentist asap to take an x-ray and determine whether the alignment of the erupting tooth is worth saving or not. I would also check the other wisdom teeth to determine their viability.

Wisdom tooth abscess: Sounds like you are developing a soft tissue localized infection around an impacted wisdom tooth. I would seek out an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in your area and have them evaluate all of your wisdom teeth for probable removal. What is occurring with this one, will likely recur if not addressed and often worsen in frequency and intensity.

See dentist: It could be just normal inflammation of tissue over the erupting wisdom tooth or you might have a gingival infection occurring. Call your dentist to have this checked. Until you get in, you can rinse with warm salt water, listerine and make sure you keep the tissue clean with increased brushing.