What to Expect During or After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. For many people, there simply isn’t enough room in the mouth for these teeth to grow in comfortably. This can lead to pain, crowding, infections, or even damage to neighboring teeth. At Salem Creek Family Dental in Murfreesboro, Dr. Ashley Costello and Dr. Alaina Skidmore often recommend wisdom tooth removal to prevent these issues and keep your smile healthy long-term.

What Happens During the Procedure

Before removal, Dr. Costello or Dr. Skidmore will review your X-rays and walk you through the treatment plan so you know exactly what to expect. Depending on your needs, anesthesia or sedation may be used to keep you relaxed and comfortable. During the procedure, the wisdom tooth is carefully loosened and removed. If the tooth is impacted, a small incision in the gum may be needed. In most cases, the process takes less than an hour, though timing varies from patient to patient.

What to Expect Right After Surgery

A little swelling, mild discomfort, and slight bleeding are common right after the procedure. Don’t worry—our team will send you home with clear instructions to make recovery easier, including how to use gauze, apply ice packs, and manage discomfort with medication. Rest is especially important in the first couple of days, so plan to take it easy and let your body heal.

Recovery in the Days That Follow

Most patients start feeling better after just a few days, though complete healing can take a couple of weeks. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, and soup while the area recovers. Avoid straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing, since those can interfere with healing. Each day, you’ll notice it getting easier to return to your normal diet and activities.

When to Call Our Office

Some swelling and soreness are normal, but if you notice severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fever, it’s best to reach out. Our dentists can check for complications and make sure everything is healing properly.

Wisdom Tooth Care at Salem Creek Family Dental in Murfreesboro, TN

Knowing what to expect can make wisdom tooth removal far less stressful. At Salem Creek Family Dental, Dr. Ashley Costello and Dr. Alaina Skidmore take time to guide each patient through the process with care and compassion. Whether you or your teen may need wisdom teeth removed, our team is here to help. Call our Murfreesboro office or schedule a consultation online—we’ll work with you to keep your smile healthy and your recovery smooth.

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Categorised in: Wisdom Teeth