Wisdom tooth removal: what to expect

Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that are "stuck" in the bone or gums and cannot fully erupt. Some of them can cause problems that show up as:

• Pain at the back of the jaw that can spread toward the ear and throat
• Swollen, red gums where the wisdom tooth is coming through
• Difficulty opening the mouth and swallowing
• Bad breath caused by food trapped under the gums
• Crowding of the other teeth

In cases like these, the tooth often has to be removed surgically. I know, no one likes to hear the word "surgery."

The fear is bigger than the procedure

Let's be honest: no one wakes up excited about a trip to the oral surgeon. When your dentist tells you an impacted wisdom tooth has to come out, the first reaction is usually fear. Why? The human brain naturally resists procedures it cannot see or understand. Add the fear of the needle, the sound of dental instruments and imagining the worst-case scenario, and you have the perfect recipe for putting off the appointment.

The good news is that the fear is always bigger than the procedure itself, which is routine. With anesthesia, a skilled surgeon and a calm atmosphere, any fear can be overcome.

Preparation and the procedure

Preparation involves an examination and imaging (a panoramic and 3D scan) to determine the exact position of the tooth.

The procedure itself is painless thanks to anesthesia. A small incision is made in the gum to reach the tooth. Sometimes the tooth has to be divided into sections to make removal easier, depending on its position. The wound is then sutured, and the stitches are removed after 7 days.

Recovery after removal

Some swelling after the procedure is completely normal. We know that temporary swelling and soft food are not the most fun thing in the world, but remember: this is just a couple of days of discomfort that permanently free you from long-term pain and tooth problems.

What to do

• Apply cold compresses to the cheek (20 minutes, with breaks)
• Eat soft, mushy and cooled food (soups, purees, pudding)
• Take the pain medication prescribed by your dentist
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated

What to avoid

• Do not rinse your mouth or swish liquid for the first 24 hours
• Avoid hot food, carbonated and alcoholic drinks
• Strictly avoid smoking (it can cause a "dry socket")
• Do not poke the wound with your tongue or fingers

We completely understand that the period right after a tooth extraction can be exhausting, so don't rush back to full speed. Give yourself permission to take a few days of complete rest and gentle care.