Getting your wisdom teeth pulled isn’t something most people look forward to, but sometimes it’s necessary. In Curaçao, patients often wait until the discomfort becomes too much to ignore.
Swelling, pressure, jaw pain, it all builds up. If you’re at the point where your dentist recommends surgery, you might be asking yourself: What now?
The good news is that wisdom teeth removal in Curacao is straightforward when done by experienced professionals. The process is safe, common, and nothing to stress about when you know what’s coming. In this post, we’ll break it down simply, no fluff, no drama. Just what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
When They Cause Trouble
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed. But if they’re growing in at an angle, crowding your other teeth, or staying trapped under the gums, your dentist will likely suggest surgery. Pain, gum infections, or even cysts can develop if they’re left untreated.
Preventive Removal
Even if you’re not in pain yet, your dentist might still recommend taking them out early, usually in your late teens or early twenties. At that age, healing is faster, and complications are less likely.
What Happens Before Surgery
Dental Evaluation
First, your dentist will examine your teeth and take X-rays. This shows how the wisdom teeth are growing and helps plan the procedure. They’ll also ask about your health and any medications you’re taking.
Preparing For the Day
You’ll get instructions on when to stop eating or drinking before the surgery. This depends on whether you’ll be under local or general anesthesia. Make sure you have someone to drive you home, especially if you’re getting sedation.
What To Expect During Surgery
Getting your wisdom teeth removed may sound intimidating, but the surgery itself is usually quick and well-managed. Here’s how the process works once you’re in the chair:
Local Or General Anesthesia
Most people get local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. You’ll be awake but won’t feel pain. In some cases, you might be given general anesthesia and sleep through the whole thing.
The Procedure Itself
The dentist makes a small incision in your gum to reach the tooth. If the tooth hasn’t fully erupted, it may be cut into smaller pieces before removal. Once the tooth is out, the site is cleaned, and stitches may be placed.
The whole thing usually takes less than an hour.
Aftercare And Recovery
What You’ll Feel
Once the numbness fades, expect some swelling, mild bleeding, and discomfort. That’s normal. Most people manage it with over-the-counter painkillers and cold packs.
Eating And Cleaning
Stick to soft foods for the first few days, soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes. Avoid using straws or smoking, as these can slow down healing. Keep your mouth clean, but don’t brush near the surgery site for a day or two.
Healing Timeline
Most people start to feel better within three to five days. Swelling typically peaks after the first 48 hours and then goes down gradually. Stitches, if non-dissolvable, are usually removed after a week. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions during this time especially when it comes to rest and hygiene. Don’t rush back to normal eating or exercise too soon. A calm recovery gives your mouth the best chance to heal properly without setbacks.
Watch For Complications
If you feel severe pain, develop a fever, or notice pus, call your dentist. These could be signs of infection or dry socket.
Why Local Care Matters
Having the surgery done locally makes a big difference. You’re not rushing to recover in a hotel room or flying home swollen. You can follow up easily, check in with your dentist, and recover at your own pace.
Our team at Klinika Dental Sta Rosa offers safe, effective wisdom teeth removal in Curacao with modern tools and experienced hands. And if you need more support, we’re always just a call away.
For more general information, check out how we support your overall dental care in Curacao.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal isn’t as scary as it sounds. With the right care, it’s a smooth process from start to finish. If you’re in Curaçao and your wisdom teeth are acting up or you just want them checked, book a consultation. You’ll be glad you didn’t wait.