The thought of undergoing wisdom tooth extraction can be nerve-wracking for some people, usually because of the things they hear from others’ experiences. For us dentists, we understand that you feel anxious about the procedure, especially if you’ve never had surgery before.
However, we saw that keeping our patients informed about the process and what they will need to expect has helped them address their concerns, lessen their anxiety, and prepare well for their upcoming treatment. This made the whole process and experience much easier.
There are many reasons why patients fear getting wisdom tooth extraction, but it doesn’t mean there are no solutions to them.
Let’s discuss the most common fears associated with wisdom tooth removal and how we provide practical solutions to help you feel more comfortable about your upcoming procedure.
What Happens in a Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure?
An Australian survey conducted in 2013, revealed that approximately 26% of Australia’s 440,000 dentate patients underwent wisdom tooth extractions. That’s why, for our dentists here at Bellevue Hill Dental, it is important that we educate our patients on what they can expect before, during and after a procedure, especially when it involves a major dental procedure.
Understanding the steps involved in a wisdom tooth extraction procedure can help ease anxiety and prepare you for the experience. Here’s what typically happens:
- Consultation and X-rays – Your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. You will also discuss your medical history to ensure your concerns are considered before performing the surgery. Your dentist will also let you know how they plan to extract your wisdom tooth.
- Anaesthesia Administration – Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may receive local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia. Your dentist can also include other options in case you still feel anxious or pain during the extraction.
- Tooth Removal – The dentist will make a small incision in the gum if necessary, remove any bone blocking the tooth, and extract the wisdom tooth either bit by bit or in one go, depending on the angle at which the tooth grew.
- Stitching and Gauze Placement – If needed, the area is stitched up, and gauze is placed to control bleeding and make sure the stitches are not infected by bacteria.
- Recovery and Aftercare – You will receive post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing of your surgery site. This may include prescription or over-the-counter medicines, some tips on what and how to take care of your surgery site, and follow-up check-up schedules.
Let’s look at the common fears and see how you can overcome each of them.
Common Fears About Wisdom Tooth Extraction
1. Fear of Pain
One of the biggest concerns patients have about wisdom tooth surgery is the fear of pain. Many people worry that the procedure will be extremely uncomfortable, both during and after the extraction.
Solution: Modern dentistry has made significant advancements in pain management. Your dentist will use local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia to ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure. After the surgery, any discomfort can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief medications.
2. Fear of Complications
Patients often worry about potential complications that could happen during or after the surgery, such as infection, excessive bleeding, or nerve damage.
Solution: While complications are rare in wisdom tooth surgery, choosing a qualified and experienced dentist or oral surgeon can greatly reduce risks. Following post-operative care instructions, such as keeping the extraction site clean and avoiding certain foods, can help prevent infections and promote smooth healing.
3. Fear of the Unknown
Not knowing what to expect during a wisdom tooth extraction procedure can heighten anxiety. Some patients imagine the worst-case scenario simply because they aren’t familiar with the process.
Solution: Talk to your dentist beforehand. They can walk you through the steps of the procedure, explain the type of anaesthesia that will be used, and answer any questions you have. Knowing what to expect can ease your mind and help you feel more prepared.
4. Fear of the Recovery Process
Some patients are concerned about how long it will take to recover and whether they will be able to eat, work, or go about their daily routines normally after wisdom tooth removal.
Solution: Recovery time varies, but most people start feeling better within a few days. Eating soft foods, staying hydrated, and resting can help speed up the healing process. Your dentist will also provide a detailed aftercare guide to help you recover comfortably.
5. Fear of the Cost
Another major concern is the wisdom tooth extraction cost. Some patients worry about how much the procedure will set them back financially.
Solution: The cost of wisdom tooth surgery depends on factors such as the complexity of the extraction and whether sedation is needed. Many dental clinics offer flexible payment plans or accept health insurance to make the procedure more affordable. It’s best to discuss pricing and payment options with your dentist before starting your procedure to settle the financial aspect.
A Step Towards a Healthier Smile
Feeling nervous about wisdom tooth extraction is completely normal, but with the right information and support, you can overcome your fears. The procedure is a common and safe way to prevent future dental issues, and with proper care, recovery can be smooth and manageable.
If you have concerns about wisdom tooth removal, our team at Bellevue Hill Dental is here to help. Book a consultation today to discuss your options and put your mind at ease.
