Extracting wisdom teeth might seem scary for many people at first. They are usually worried about the level of pain involved. So, is wisdom tooth removal painful? With advancements in dental techniques, such as local or general anesthesia, patients can experience a pain-free tooth extraction procedure. You should also consider that experiencing some discomfort is natural during the healing process, which can be minimized by following aftercare tips.
Want to learn more about this interesting topic? Let’s explore all you need to know about wisdom tooth removal.
Can You Feel Pain During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Based on our working experience, the most common question patients often ask is whether wisdom tooth removal is painful. The answer is no! Advancements in anesthesia and dental tools made the process of tooth extraction much easier and more comfortable.
Does the Anesthesia Completely Eliminate Pain?
Yes, anesthesia is designed to numb the treatment area completely. So, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Based on your needs and preferences, your dentist may use local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is useful for numbing the area around the tooth, while general anesthesia is more appropriate for multiple or complex tooth removals.
Having a Confident Smile is Still Possible!
If you are looking for a professional dentist to undergo a wisdom tooth extraction procedure, you can count on our skilled dentist and caring staff. Our team at Eagle Family Dentistry has years of experience in addressing issues with wisdom teeth. Schedule an appointment now!
Pain Levels: Simple vs. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
The pain level is directly related to the type of tooth extractions. A simple extraction usually doesn’t lead to pain, while a surgical procedure may involve minimal discomfort. Our patients usually report soreness and swelling after the surgery.
Read More: Dentist or Oral Surgeon for Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The process of wisdom tooth removal might vary based on several factors, For impacted wisdom teeth, surgery is needed, which may last up to 1 hour. However, simple extractions are usually completed after 20 minutes.
What to Do with the Pain After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Fortunately, there are several ways to handle your pain after wisdom tooth removal. Your dentist might recommend to use over-the-counter products, such as painkillers. If your pain is more intense, your dentist can prescribe medications to help you feel better.
How Long Will You Be in Pain After the Surgery?
The tooth extraction procedure is usually painless, but patients might experience discomfort during the healing process. It is normal to experience mild pain or discomfort for the first few days after a tooth extraction procedure. However, persistent pain might be a sign of more serious issues.
Here’s the message of one of our patients, Charlotte:
“After my tooth extraction, I felt some mild pain and discomfort for the first few days. It wasn’t anything unbearable, just a bit sore, especially when eating or talking. I took the painkillers my dentist recommended, and they really helped. By the third day, the pain had mostly gone away, and I felt much better. Following the aftercare instructions made the whole process smoother.”
3 Tips for a Smooth and Pain-Free Recovery
Following aftercare instructions is crucial. It prevents further complications and protects your oral health. Your dentist comprehensively assesses your oral health and suggests aftercare guidelines that match your needs best.
1. Do Not Miss Any Post-Surgery Care Instructions
- If you are experiencing bleeding, use a gauze pad to control it.
- Rest enough and avoid intense physical activities to prevent swelling,
- Follow your dentist’s instructions; It helps you experience a quick and effective recovery.
- Don’t rinse your mouth vigorously. It might damage the treated area.
2. Be Mindful About Your Diet
Generally, it is recommended to avoid hard and crunchy foods after tooth extraction. Based on the suggestions of the Healthline website, you can consume softer foods, such as blended soup, broths, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and Greek yogurt, to prevent irritation and damage to the surgical site.
Read More: 9 Soft Foods to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Extraction for a Speedy Recovery
3. Prevent Dry Socket and Other Complications
A dry socket might happen if the blood clot at the treatment area is dislodged. To prevent this issue, we recommend avoiding using straws for a week, Rinse your mouth with salt water after the first 24 hours. Keep in mind that following your dentist’s instructions accelerates the healing procedure, helping you resume your daily life more quickly.
Seeking a skilled dentist to experience a pain-free and comfortable tooth extraction? Our experts at Eagle are ready to address your wisdom tooth problems. This procedure is performed by most professional dentists, helping you experience the most comfortable extraction procedure. Take your first step towards a healthier life and schedule an appointment today!
FAQs
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How much pain is normal after wisdom tooth removal?
Some discomfort is normal for 3-5 days, with pain peaking in the first 48 hours and gradually decreasing afterward.
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Do impacted wisdom teeth cause more pain during extraction?
Yes, impacted wisdom teeth can cause more pain during extraction due to their position, often requiring more invasive techniques.
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Will I feel pain if I’m under local or general anesthesia?
With local anesthesia, you won’t feel pain but may feel pressure. Under general anesthesia, you should feel no pain or awareness during the procedure.
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How can I speed up recovery after wisdom tooth extraction?
To speed up recovery, follow aftercare instructions: rest, avoid hard foods, use ice packs, keep your head elevated, and rinse with saltwater to prevent infection.
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What are the best painkillers to take after surgery?
Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) are recommended, but your dentist may prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary.
