Wisdom teeth removal: What to expect

Written by Cherry Hill Dentistry



July 19, 2021

So, Dr. Tanya just recommended that you get your wisdom teeth removed. Why is this important, and what should you know about wisdom teeth removal? Let’s talk about it…

Why do your wisdom teeth need removed?

We all have those one friends that “don’t need to have their wisdom teeth removed”.

Though it’s rare that a person is *actually* fine to keep their wisdom teeth, there are a few important reasons that removal is usually recommended:

1. Your mouth isn’t big enough. We can’t all be Steven Tyler. Most often, our jaws don’t have any extra room for your wisdom teeth to grow in without causing movement among your other teeth.

2. They come in at the wrong angle. For such an inspiring name, wisdom teeth can be pretty freaking stupid.

3. They get impacted. Due to the placement of wisdom teeth in your mouth, they may come in abnormally…like getting trapped in your gums or jawbone.

4. They’re not getting properly taken care of. Due to the placement of wisdom teeth, they’re often times hard to reach and clean. A neglected tooth is a cause for concern, as it can lead to further complications with your health.

What can you expect during wisdom tooth surgery?

To get all wisdom teeth removed, you should plan on being in the chair for about 45 minutes.

And don’t worry, you’ll be able to watch your favorite TV show with local anesthesia. Nothing makes Friends funnier than watching with laughing gas.

What should you expect after wisdom teeth surgery?

Most people are immediately alert once coming off of local anesthesia, and can even drive themselves home. Some people react differently though, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan just in case.

Often times, people have little to no pain after surgery. You’re going to likely experience some mild discomfort for a few days, and you may need a few weeks before being completely healed from the surgery.

Dr. Tanya will provide you with personal recommendations after your surgery, but here are some tips to consider a few days after getting your wisdom teeth removed:

1. Use an ice pack on your face to relieve any pain, swelling, or discomfort.

2. Exercise your jaw by gently opening and closing your mouth.

3. Carb it up! Eat soft foods like rice and pasta to avoid putting too much stress on your mouth.

4. Drink plenty of fluids (also please just always do this…)

5. Avoid drinking anything through a straw.

6. Dr. Tanya may have specific recommendations for you, but typically you want to avoid rinsing your mouth too harshly.

7. Avoid eating hard or sticky candy or foods

8. Don’t smoke (…anything)

That’s it! Wisdom teeth aren’t so scary, right?

The most common reaction from people getting their wisdom teeth removed is “…that’s it?!”. It really is much simpler than we were lead to believe, and most people walk away with little to no pain. When it comes to wisdom teeth, it’s better out than in, so talk to Dr. Tanya ASAP if you have wisdom teeth causing you any problems or concerns!