Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to grow in, usually appearing in your late teens or early twenties. Sometimes there isn't enough room for them, so they can grow in crooked, get stuck under your gums, or push against your other teeth. This can cause pain, swelling, and other dental problems.
Removing wisdom teeth helps stop these problems before they get worse. It protects your other teeth from damage, reduces pain and swelling, and helps keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a safe and common procedure that prevents bigger problems later on, like infections or damage to nearby teeth.
How do I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Look for these signs:
Pain in the back of your mouth that keeps coming back.
Your jaw feels sore or stiff.
Swelling or redness around your back teeth.
Bad breath that won't go away, even after brushing.
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to call us so a dentist can check your wisdom teeth.
Does it hurt to get wisdom teeth removed?
We want you to be comfortable! We use a special medicine called a local anesthetic to make the area around your wisdom teeth completely numb before we start.
That means you should feel very little or no pain during the procedure. Some patients also choose sedation to help them relax during the removal.
How long does it take to heal after wisdom teeth removal?
Most people feel much better after about 3 to 4 days. Full healing of your gums usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks.
Following our after-care instructions helps you heal faster! We'll tell you what foods to eat, how to keep your mouth clean, and how to reduce swelling.
What can I eat after getting my wisdom teeth removed?
For the first few days, stick to soft foods that are easy to eat, like:
Yogurt, pudding, or applesauce
Mashed potatoes or soup (make sure it's not too hot)
Smoothies (don't use a straw!)
Scrambled eggs or oatmeal
Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or hot foods until your mouth has healed.
Will I have swelling after the procedure?
Some swelling is normal after wisdom teeth removal. It usually goes away after a few days. We'll show you how to use ice packs to help reduce swelling and make you more comfortable.
When should I call the dentist after my wisdom teeth are removed?
Call us right away if you have:
Heavy bleeding that won't stop
Pain that gets worse instead of better
Fever or signs of infection
Numbness that lasts more than a few hours after the procedure
We're always here to help you! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns during your recovery.