How much time to remove wisdom teeth
Really, How Much Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Okay, first things first: it depends. I know, I know, annoying answer. But it’s true.
Generally, if your teeth are fully erupted and not impacted, it could take as little as 20 to 30 minutes in total. That’s literally the time it takes to scroll TikTok for a bit. But, and here’s the kicker, if your wisdom teeth are impacted (like trapped under the gums or growing sideways), the procedure might take up to 45 minutes to an hour, or sometimes even more for all four teeth.
Mine took around 50 minutes total, and I had three of them removed. The fourth one? Never showed up. Lucky me, I guess.
The Breakdown (Because We Love Details)
Let’s break this down a bit more so you know what you’re actually signing up for.
Consultation Time:
Before the actual removal, there’s usually a consultation. You’ll get x-rays, the dentist will poke around, and explain what’s going on back there. This part takes maybe 20-30 minutes and honestly feels more chill than scary.
The Day of the Surgery:
The part you’re probably more nervous about. Once the numbing kicks in or if you’re out under general anesthesia things move pretty quickly. They’ll usually start with the easiest tooth, then work their way toward the trickier ones.
Now here’s a little secret: you won’t feel pain during the procedure, mostly just pressure and weird noises. That’s it.
Again, depending on how many teeth you’re removing and how cooperative your jaw is, how much time to remove wisdom teeth can vary a lot. I’ve heard some people get all four out in under 30 minutes, while others take over an hour.
Recovery Room Time:
Once they finish up, you’ll probably be sitting around in a recovery room for a bit maybe still a little out of it or drooling (yup, that happens). They’re not gonna send you off until they’re sure you’re not all wobbly or out of it like, you gotta be able to stand up without tipping over or get picked up without a problem. So yeah, add an extra 30 to 45 minutes at the clinic, just to be safe.
It’s Not Just the Clock, It’s How You Feel
Something people don’t talk about enough? Mental time. Like, sure, they say the whole thing takes around 45 minutes, but man it feels way longer when you’re sitting there all nervous. Honestly, if you’re anything like me and dental stuff makes you tense, the time before it even starts just drags. It’s like… every minute feels stretched out, no joke.
And here’s something real: how much time to remove wisdom teeth isn’t just about the physical procedure. It’s also about your body’s recovery clock and that’s a different story.
Recovery Time (The Aftermath No One Warns You About)
Alright, so your wisdom teeth are out. Now what?
Well, the numbness lasts a few hours, then things get sore. Most people need about 3 to 7 days to recover. The first two days are rough, I won’t lie. You’ll be swollen, probably hungry, and over the whole “ice pack and soup” thing.
But by day four or five, things usually improve a lot. You might still talk weird or look like a chipmunk, but the worst is behind you.
And let’s not forget if you’re working or in school, you’ll need to plan for time off. Not a ton, but maybe two to three days minimum, just to be safe.
My Honest Advice?
Don’t get stuck in your head too much. It’s totally fine to feel nervous seriously, who wouldn’t be? And yeah, the whole thing? Kinda annoying, not gonna lie. But you’ll get through it.But millions of people do this every year and get through it just fine. If your dentist says it’s time, trust the process.
Also, eat all your favorite crunchy snacks the night before. You’ll miss them for a few days.
And one last time, because I know this question keeps popping up: how much time to remove wisdom teeth Anywhere between 20 minutes to an hour give or take depending on how complicated things are in your mouth.
Final thoughts?
How Much Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth Real Talk InsideOkay look if you came here hoping for a straight-up number, yeah… you’re probably not gonna get one. That’s just not how this stuff works. Everyone’s different. Like, some folks are in and out, no problem. Others? Yeah, might take a bit longer, might feel a little rougher. But honestly? It’s a super common thing. Not fun, but also not the nightmare it’s made out to be. You’ll deal. Promise.
The best thing you can do is ask your dentist during your consultation. They’ve seen your x-rays and know how much time to remove wisdom teeth in your specific case. Trust them and bring some soft snacks for the recovery ride.
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