Wisdom teeth usually start coming in during the late teen years or early twenties. For some people, they show up without much trouble. For others, these back molars can crowd the mouth or grow at odd angles. That’s when it might be time to think about having them removed.
Winter in Maple Ridge can be a good time to plan for this kind of dental work. With colder weather and a slower schedule over winter break, it’s easier to rest and heal at home. If you’re starting to feel a little nervous about the idea, don’t worry. Wisdom teeth removal in Maple Ridge is something we help people with all the time. Once you know what to expect, the whole thing can feel a lot less stressful.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth out. But when they start causing problems or look like they might in the future, removal might be the best option.
• Some wisdom teeth grow sideways or sit at strange angles, pushing into nearby teeth.
• Others only come in partway, leaving a flap of gum that traps food and bacteria.
• Pain, swelling, or jaw tightness are common signs that something isn’t right.
• You might notice trouble chewing or soreness that comes and goes.
When we check your teeth and see that something is off, we’ll talk about whether taking them out makes sense. Sometimes, it’s better to step in early rather than waiting until they cause bigger issues.
What the Dentist Looks For Before Removal
Before removing wisdom teeth, we always want to get a clear picture of what’s going on. That starts with a good exam and a set of X-rays to see how your teeth are growing.
• We check how the wisdom teeth are lined up beneath the gums.
• We look for signs that they're pressing against other teeth or causing swelling.
• We may also check for signs of infection or small areas of tooth decay.
At Kanaka Creek Family Dental, we use digital X-rays for clear, detailed images of your wisdom teeth and jaw, helping us create a safe and efficient treatment plan.
This step is important. It helps us plan how to remove the wisdom teeth in the safest and easiest way. Once we have all the details, we’ll explain what the options are so you’ll know exactly what to expect on the day of the procedure.
What Happens During the Procedure
Most people want to know exactly what happens during wisdom teeth removal. We get that. Knowing the steps ahead of time can make the whole thing feel less scary.
• First, we use numbing medicine so your mouth won’t feel pain.
• For people who feel nervous, sedation might be offered to help you relax.
• Depending on how many teeth are being removed, the appointment could be short or take a bit longer.
If the tooth is fully out of the gums, we’ll usually lift it straight out. If it’s under the gums or tilted, a small cut in the gum might be needed. Once the teeth are out, the area is cleaned, and a few stitches may be placed.
You’ll be resting soon after, likely with a friend or family member there to take you home.
Recovering at Home After Removal
The first couple of days at home are all about giving your mouth time to heal. Swelling and soreness are normal during this time, especially near the back of your jaw. Over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs can really help.
Here’s what most people can expect during recovery:
• Your cheeks may look puffy for a day or two, especially during cold winter days.
• Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, or applesauce.
• Skip straws and hot drinks, which can cause problems with healing.
• Keep your head elevated when resting to help reduce swelling.
It’s smart to plan for a little extra downtime. That’s why winter break is a great time to do this. Most people start to feel way better after just a few days.
When To Call Your Dentist
Healing usually goes pretty smoothly, but we always want you to feel comfortable checking in if anything seems off. Catching small problems early makes a big difference.
Call us if you notice:
• Pain that doesn’t get better after the first few days
• Swelling that gets worse, not better
• Bleeding that doesn’t slow down within a few hours
• A strange taste, bad breath, or signs that something might be infected
Don’t feel like you’re overreacting. It’s okay to ask questions or double-check anything that doesn’t feel right. That’s what we’re here for.
Easing Into a More Comfortable Smile
Getting wisdom teeth removed may sound like a big deal, but it’s actually a pretty common procedure. For a lot of people, it’s a smart way to protect a healthy smile and avoid future pain.
With our patient-focused approach at Kanaka Creek Family Dental, we guide you through every stage, from planning to recovery, so you know exactly what to expect and when to get in touch.
When you know what to expect, the whole process starts to feel more doable. From the early signs to the recovery week, it helps to know you’re not alone. With a little rest and the right care, most people bounce back quickly and feel better fast. Winter in Maple Ridge is a great time to take care of this step and move into the new year feeling more comfortable.
Planning ahead for healthy teeth this winter can make all the difference, and many of our patients find that scheduling wisdom teeth removal in Maple Ridge during the quieter months leads to a smoother recovery. At Kanaka Creek Family Dental, our team is here to answer your questions, address any concerns, and guide you through each step so you can feel confident about your dental care. Call us today to book your consultation.