Introduction
If you’ve been told it’s time to remove your wisdom teeth, you’re not alone — most Canadians end up needing the procedure at some point. But knowing you need wisdom teeth extraction and actually feeling ready for it are two very different things.
Whether you’re dealing with pain, swelling, crowding, or you’re just trying to prevent future dental issues, asking your dentist the right questions can make the whole experience smoother and way less stressful.
As a Calgary dental clinic that handles wisdom teeth removal every week, we know exactly what patients worry about — and what they should be asking before booking the procedure. This guide gives you the essential questions to bring to your appointment so you feel informed, safe, and confident from start to finish.
1. Do all my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not everyone needs every wisdom tooth removed. In some cases, wisdom teeth grow in straight, have plenty of space, and don’t cause any issues at all. But others come in sideways, stay trapped under the gums, or lead to pain and infections — and that’s when wisdom teeth removal becomes necessary.
A good Calgary dentist will take a close look at your X-rays and explain:
- Which wisdom teeth are causing problems
- Which ones are likely to cause issues later
- Whether it’s better to remove all four at once or only the problematic ones
This helps you avoid unnecessary treatment — and surprise complications later.
2. What type of wisdom teeth extraction do I need?
Wisdom teeth Calgary patients generally fall into two categories:
Simple Extraction
The tooth has erupted through the gum line and is visible. This is usually quick and straightforward.
Surgical Extraction
The tooth is impacted, angled, or stuck under the gum or bone. This requires a small incision and more advanced techniques.
Knowing which type you need will help you understand:
- How long the appointment will take
- What recovery will look like
- Whether you need sedation
3. What sedation options do you offer?
This is one of the biggest concerns patients have before wisdom teeth removal in Calgary.
Most clinics offer:
- Local anesthesia (numbing only)
- Oral sedation (helps you relax)
- IV sedation (you’re awake but deeply relaxed)
- General anesthesia (usually for complex surgical cases)
Ask your dentist which option is best based on:
- Your anxiety level
- The complexity of the extraction
- Medical history
- Pain tolerance
The goal is to make the experience as calm and comfortable as possible.
4. What risks should I be aware of?
Any procedure has risks — but understanding them helps you feel more in control.
A trustworthy dentist will openly discuss:
- Infection
- Dry socket
- Swelling or bruising
- Temporary numbness
- Delayed healing
- Bone fragments
What matters most is that your dentist explains how they prevent complications and what support you’ll have if something feels off after your appointment.
5. How long will recovery take?
Every patient heals differently, but here’s what most people can expect:
- 24 hours: rest, soft foods, gentle care
- 2–3 days: swelling peaks, then starts going down
- 1 week: most people feel like themselves again
- 2–3 weeks: full tissue healing
- 3–6 months: deeper bone healing
Your dentist should explain what your recovery will look like based on:
- Whether the extraction is simple or surgical
- The tooth’s position
- Your overall health
This helps you plan time off work, school, or activities.
6. Will removing my wisdom teeth affect my other teeth — especially if I’m considering teeth straightening?
If you’re planning teeth straightening with braces or clear aligners, this question is extremely important.
Wisdom teeth can:
- Push neighbouring teeth
- Cause shifting
- Create crowding
- Undo past orthodontic work
That’s why many Calgary orthodontists recommend removing wisdom teeth before or during teeth straightening treatment.
Ask your dentist to evaluate:
- Whether your wisdom teeth are already causing movement
- Timing for extraction if you’re planning Invisalign or braces
- The safest treatment sequence for your case
7. What should I do before the procedure?
A good dentist will give you a pre-procedure checklist that includes:
- Whether you should eat or fast
- Medications to avoid
- Switching to soft foods
- Arranging a ride home (if sedated)
- Preparing ice packs, gauze, and OTC pain relief
Showing up prepared makes everything easier.
8. What should I expect right after the extraction?
There’s a lot happening in the first 24 hours, and knowing what’s normal can keep you from panicking.
Your dentist should explain:
- What normal bleeding looks like
- When to change gauze
- How much pain is typical
- How long swelling lasts
- How to use ice packs
- What to eat (and avoid)
The better your aftercare, the smoother your healing.
9. What foods can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Food is a surprisingly big deal during recovery — and choosing the wrong thing can delay healing.
Safe foods in the first 48 hours:
- Yogurt
- Smoothies (no straws!)
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Soup (lukewarm)
- Scrambled eggs
- Soft pasta
Avoid:
- Chips
- Nuts
- Spicy foods
- Alcohol
- Hot drinks
- Anything crunchy or chewy
Your dentist should give you a 7-day food plan to make recovery easier.
10. When should I call the clinic after the procedure?
A reliable clinic will never leave you guessing.
Your dentist should clearly explain when to contact them, such as:
- Severe pain after day 3
- A bad taste or smell
- Fever
- Persistent bleeding
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Numbness that doesn’t go away
Knowing the “red flags” helps you catch issues early.
Final Thoughts
Wisdom teeth removal doesn’t have to be intimidating — especially when you walk into your appointment fully prepared. Asking the right questions helps you understand the procedure, set realistic expectations, and feel confident about your dentist’s approach.
If you’re considering wisdom teeth removal in Calgary or dealing with pain, swelling, or crowding, your best first step is to book a consultation with a dentist who explains everything clearly — like the trusted team at Galaxy Dental.