Wisdom Teeth | Calgary | Chinook Village Dental

Your Guide to Wisdom Teeth Extraction

If you’re experiencing discomfort or noticing changes in your mouth, your wisdom teeth may be the cause. Whether it’s due to crowding, infection, or limited space, wisdom tooth removal can help prevent future oral health concerns.

Wisdom teeth removal can be a sensitive topic for some patients, so our team strives to make the process as straightforward as possible. If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or problems, or if you’d like to be proactive before they do, we’re here to help.

Don’t wait for issues to arise—schedule your consultation today and let our team help you maintain a healthy smile.

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Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

Here are some common symptoms that could indicate your wisdom teeth need to be checked:

Jaw or facial discomfort near the back of your mouth
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Difficulty opening your mouth
Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
Headaches or earaches
Crowding of nearby teeth

If you’re noticing any of the above, book an exam so we can take a closer look with digital X-rays.

Why Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt, and sometimes there is not enough room for them to come in properly. When this happens, they can become impacted (trapped under the gum or in the jawbone) or partially erupt, making them difficult to clean and more prone to infection or decay.

You might need to have your wisdom teeth removed if they are:

Growing in at an angle toward the second molar
Causing discomfort, swelling, or pressure
Leading to gum inflammation or infection
Creating pockets where food and bacteria collect
Damaging neighbouring teeth or bone
Linked to cysts or other complications

Even if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing symptoms currently, we may recommend removal to prevent future issues.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Most people have their wisdom teeth removed in their late teens to mid-twenties, while the roots are still developing. However, some patients may need removal later in life if problems arise.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

Comfort comes first. We use local anesthesia to numb the area, and may recommend sedation for a stress-free experience.
Quick and efficient removal. The dentist or surgeon will make a small incision, gently remove the tooth, and close the site if needed.
You’ll be able to go home the same day. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about aftercare.

Healing & Aftercare Tips

Most people start feeling better within a few days. To support a smooth recovery and avoid issues like dry socket, follow these do’s and don’ts:

Do:
- Take medications as directed
- Apply ice to your jaw
- Stick to soft foods (yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes)
- Rest and relax
Avoid:
- Using straws
- Smoking or vaping
- Crunchy, spicy, or hard foods
- Intense activity

Contact us if you notice any ongoing bleeding, swelling, fever, pus, or other unusual symptoms.

Wisdom Tooth Removal FAQs

Will the process hurt?

The procedure itself is done under local anesthetic, and many patients choose sedation to help them relax. Afterward, some discomfort is expected but manageable with medication.

How long is recovery?

Most people recover in 3–5 days, though complete healing of the gums may take a couple of weeks. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions for a smooth recovery.

Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Not always. Some people never develop wisdom teeth, while others have enough space for them to erupt without any issues. We’ll assess your specific case before making a recommendation.

Let’s Take Care of Your Wisdom Teeth

Whether you’re starting to feel pressure at the back of your mouth or just want to be proactive, we’re here to help. Our team at Chinook Village Dental can assess your wisdom teeth and walk you through your options—no pressure, just honest advice.

Contact us to book your appointment, and let’s take the next step toward keeping your smile healthy and problem-free.

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