Everyone seems to have a wisdom teeth story, and the scary ones tend to get retold the most. The reality is that for most people, wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure with a few days of recovery. Here’s an honest look at what to expect. For details on the procedure itself, see our wisdom teeth removal page.
“Do I Really Need Them Out?”
Not always. If your wisdom teeth are fully in, healthy, and easy to clean, you may be able to keep them. We usually recommend removal when they’re impacted, coming in at an angle, crowding other teeth, or causing pain or infection. X-rays show us what’s going on below the gum.
“Will I Feel It?”
No. The area is fully numbed before anything starts. If you’re anxious, you can choose sedation. At Siena Dental, that ranges from nitrous oxide to oral sedation to advanced sedation with a local anesthesiologist, where you’ll be deeply relaxed and likely won’t remember the procedure.
“How Long Does It Take?”
Removing all four usually takes under an hour. You’ll spend a little extra time with us before and after, especially if you have sedation.
“How Bad Is Recovery?”
Most people have swelling and soreness for two to three days, then feel steadily better. Many are back to school or work within two to four days. The things that make the biggest difference:
- Ice packs on and off for the first day
- Soft foods like yogurt, pudding, soup, and mashed potatoes
- No straws, smoking, or forceful spitting for at least three days
- Taking pain medication on schedule instead of waiting for pain to build
- Gentle salt water rinses starting the next day
“What’s Dry Socket, and Will I Get It?”
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket comes loose too early. It’s painful but uncommon, and following your aftercare, especially avoiding straws and smoking, is the best way to prevent it. If pain gets worse after day three instead of better, call us.
“When’s the Best Time?”
Late teens and early twenties is often ideal, because the roots aren’t fully formed and healing tends to be faster. Summer and winter breaks are popular for students. Adults can still have them removed safely.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Leander
Siena Dental removes wisdom teeth in our office on US-183, with 3D imaging when needed and sedation options for comfort. If a wisdom tooth is hurting now, call (737) 766-7226. We hold time for same-day emergency visits Monday through Thursday.
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