Wisdom teeth might sound like a sign of growing older and wiser, but for many people, they bring more discomfort than wisdom. These late-blooming molars usually show up in your late teens or early twenties, and in many cases, they can cause more problems than they’re worth.
If you’re starting to feel a bit of pressure in the back of your mouth or noticing swelling and discomfort, you might be due for a closer look at your wisdom teeth. At that point, it’s time to consider tooth extractions in NE Calgary.
Why Do We Even Have Wisdom Teeth?
Way back when humans ate raw plants, tough meats, and didn’t have the luxury of blenders or dental floss, extra molars helped with chewing. But over time, our diets and jaws evolved. Nowadays, there often just isn’t enough room for these third molars to come in properly.
That’s why they’re famous for becoming impacted (stuck under the gums), growing in crooked, or causing infections.
After this stage of concern begins, many people start searching for a tooth extraction near you, a wise move, if you’ll pardon the pun.
Common Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removed
You won’t always need your wisdom teeth taken out. But removal becomes necessary when
- They’re impacted and not breaking through the gums
- They grow in at an angle, pressing against other teeth
- You experience pain or swelling at the back of your jaw
- There’s infection or decay, often due to difficulty cleaning
- They crowd your other teeth, causing alignment issues
Sometimes, even if they’re not causing obvious pain now, your dentist might still recommend early removal to prevent problems down the road.
Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Painful?
The good news is: not really. During the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon uses local anesthesia, and in some cases, sedation. You won’t feel a thing during the extraction.
Afterward, you might feel some swelling, tenderness, or stiffness in your jaw. It’s totally normal and part of the body’s natural healing process. Most people manage post-removal discomfort with:
- Ice packs on the cheek
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Rest and soft foods
- Following your dentist’s care instructions closely
Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery: What to Expect
The process typically takes a few days to a week. Everyone heals at their own pace, but here’s a general timeline:
Day 1–2:
- Expect some swelling and mild bleeding
- Stick to cold drinks and soft foods
- Avoid using a straw (it can dislodge the healing clot)
Day 3–4:
- Swelling and discomfort usually start to ease
- Introduce slightly firmer foods, but still be gentle
- Rinse with warm salt water if advised
Day 5–7:
- You should be feeling much better
- Most normal activities can resume
- Any lingering soreness should be fading
Always follow your dentist’s instructions, and don’t hesitate to reach out if anything feels off during recovery.
Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth
While some people do keep their wisdom teeth without issues, removal is often the safer long-term choice. Here’s why:
- Avoid future crowding of healthy teeth
- Prevent cysts, infections, or gum disease
- Stop pain and discomfort before it worsens
- Easier cleaning and better overall oral hygiene
- Protect nearby teeth from pressure or damage
But Wait – Are There Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth?
In some rare cases, yes! If your wisdom teeth:
- Erupt fully and correctly
- Don’t cause any pain or pressure
- Can be cleaned easily with brushing and flossing
- Aren’t affecting nearby teeth
then your dentist might recommend keeping an eye on them rather than removing them immediately. Just remember, even “quiet” wisdom teeth can become a problem later, so regular dental checkups are key to staying ahead of any surprises.
Wisdom Teeth Acting Up? Let’s Handle It!
Wisdom teeth are one of those things you don’t think much about, until they start acting up. If you’re noticing discomfort, or just want a professional opinion before they cause trouble, it’s always best to act early. Book your consultation with Sunridge Landing Dental Care today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free smile.