It’s completely normal to feel nervous about wisdom teeth removal. At Summit Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Spokane, we see this every day—and we’re here to help you feel calm, informed, and confident. From sedation options to gentle aftercare, our team makes the process smooth, safe, and more comfortable than most patients expect. This guide explains everything to help ease those nerves and prepare you for a successful recovery.
It’s Normal to Feel Anxious About the Procedure
If you’re feeling a bit nervous about having your wisdom teeth removed, you’re not alone. In fact, it’s one of the most common concerns patients bring up during consultations.
Some people are afraid of the unknown. Others worry about pain, swelling, or taking time off work. And for many, it’s the idea of being “put under” that causes the most anxiety.
At Summit Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, our goal is to help you feel heard and supported. We take time to walk you through the entire process, answer all your questions, and provide a care plan tailored to your comfort level.
Why Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out
Wisdom teeth—also called third molars—are the last set of teeth to come in, usually between ages 17 and 25. But by the time they appear, most mouths simply don’t have enough room for them to grow in properly.
That’s when problems can arise:
- Impacted (trapped under the gums)
- Pushing against neighboring teeth
- Causing infections or swelling
- Leading to alignment issues
Removing them early—especially before the roots are fully developed—usually means easier procedures and faster healing.
How We Help Spokane Patients Feel at Ease
Every patient is different, which is why we take a personalized approach to care. Here are a few ways we help ease anxiety:
1. We Talk You Through Everything
We’ll explain what to expect before, during, and after surgery—in plain language. No surprises.
2. Sedation Tailored to Your Needs
Depending on your comfort level, we offer:
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- Local anesthesia to numb the area
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- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax
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- Oral or IV sedation for deeper calm or “sleep” dentistry
We’ll help you choose the option that makes you feel safest and most comfortable.
3. Compassionate Care from Start to Finish
Our team is known for creating a calming, friendly environment. Patients often say they feel much better once they walk in and meet the team in person.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Wisdom tooth removal usually takes less than an hour, depending on how many teeth are extracted and their position.
Here’s a typical outline:
- Pre-op check-in: We review your sedation plan and answer last-minute questions.
- Anesthesia begins: You’ll be fully numb and relaxed before anything starts.
- Tooth removal: Our dentist gently extracts the teeth using minimally invasive techniques.
- Recovery area: You’ll rest while the sedation wears off, then head home with clear aftercare instructions.
Most patients say the procedure was quicker and easier than they expected.
Wisdom Teeth Recovery: What’s Normal (and What’s Not)
⏳ Healing Timeline
- Day 1–3: Expect swelling, soreness, and possible light bleeding.
- Day 4–7: Most patients feel significantly better.
- Week 2 and beyond: Full healing continues, but normal activity usually resumes quickly.
✅ Aftercare Tips
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, and soup
- Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing
- Ice your cheeks during the first 48 hours
- Keep your head elevated when resting
- Take prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed
We’ll also provide detailed aftercare instructions to guide you every step of the way.
⚠️ When to Contact Us
Reach out if you experience:
- Severe or prolonged pain
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, or spreading redness)
- Persistent numbness
- Bad taste or odor from the site (possible dry socket)
Prompt attention to these symptoms ensures proper healing and peace of mind.
Common Questions About Wisdom Tooth Removal
Is it painful?
Thanks to modern anesthesia and sedation, you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness after surgery is normal, but manageable with proper care.
How long will I be out of work or school?
Most patients return to normal activities within 2–4 days. Plan for some rest, especially during the first 48 hours.
Can I be “put to sleep” for it?
Yes, we offer both oral and IV sedation options. We’ll walk you through each and help you decide what feels right for you.
What’s the worst that could happen?
While complications are rare, we’re honest with patients. Dry socket (a painful but treatable condition) occurs in about 2–5% of cases. We work hard to minimize risks and provide clear instructions to help you heal smoothly.
Why Spokane Patients Trust Summit Dentistry
At Summit Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, wisdom teeth removal is one of the procedures we perform most often. But for us, it’s not just about clinical skill—it’s about how you feel.
- We take extra time to answer questions
- We use advanced imaging for precise treatment planning
- We prioritize comfort, safety, and post-op support
- And we never treat patients like “just another case”
When you walk through our doors, you’ll find a friendly, experienced team that genuinely cares about your experience—from first consultation to final follow-up.
Ready to Stop Worrying?
If you’ve been putting off wisdom teeth removal because of fear or uncertainty, know this: we’re here to help you feel calm, confident, and taken care of. And…the sooner you take care of it, the simpler the procedure and shorter the recovery time.
Wisdom Teeth Worry? Let’s talk about your options.
Schedule your consultation or call Summit Dentistry in Spokane to take the next step—on your terms, at your pace.