For wisdom teeth, however, most people are curious about more than just pain and removal. A popular question is: Does getting wisdom teeth removed alter the shape of your face? It’s a reasonable question, particularly for someone worried about appearance. If you’re thinking of wisdom teeth removal in Edmonton, learning whether or not it will affect your facial shape is a good place to begin.
Let’s learn the truth about facial changes, healing, and what occurs after those third molars are removed.
Learning About Wisdom Teeth and Their Function
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. In some individuals, these teeth erupt smoothly. But in many others, they emerge crooked, get trapped (impacted), or lead to crowding in the mouth.
In instances of pain, infection, or misalignment, a dentist in West Edmonton might suggest removal to avoid future oral complications. Although this is largely a health-driven choice, one cannot help but ask if there are also cosmetic implications.
Does Removing Teeth Change Face Shape?
This is among the most frequently asked questions. So, does removing teeth affect face shape? The answer is based on several factors. If your impacted wisdom teeth are pressing against your jaw and causing pressure, their removal may decrease swelling or puffiness slightly in that region.
Now, though, it’s significant to remember that the shape of your face is formed by your bones—not just your teeth. Any noticeable shift is temporary and due to the healing process, not a permanent shift.
Swelling vs. Structural Change
You might find that your face looks more swollen than normal after your surgery. Swelling is a natural process of the body’s healing and usually lasts for a week. After the swelling subsides, your face will look normal again.
Most people ask, Does your face look slimmer after wisdom teeth removal? The reality is, any “thinner” look is usually the result of decreased puffiness—not a real reshaping of facial bone or muscle tone.
Younger Patients and Facial Development
In younger people whose jawbones are still in the process of developing, early extraction of wisdom teeth can have a subtle effect on the pattern of jaw growth. But for adults, the facial bones are already set. So, in the majority of cases, extraction has no impact on bone structure or appearance.
Your dentist near you can examine your age, facial growth, and wisdom teeth alignment to provide a better idea of whether or not there could be any effect outside of oral health.
Does Everyone Have the Same Outcome?
Each individual’s anatomy is unique. Some individuals will notice a difference in how their cheeks or jawline feels—particularly if the region was already swollen because of impacted teeth. Others will not feel anything different at all.
If you’ve been wondering, does removing teeth affect face shape? The answer is that permanent facial changes from wisdom teeth removal are rare. Your dentist will focus on preventing oral complications and ensuring your bite stays healthy.
Healing After Removal
Recovery after wisdom teeth removal typically takes about a week or two. During this time, soft foods, rest, and good hygiene can speed up the healing process.
During healing, it’s best not to look too closely for changes in the face. Puffiness, bruising, or tightness are all normal. After healing, your face will be the same as before, with the added advantage of less discomfort and improved oral alignment.
If you’re having wisdom teeth removal Edmonton, your care provider will explain what to expect and how to take care of your mouth while healing.
Other Causes of Perceived Changes
At times, individuals blame face changes on the extraction when they are caused by another factor. Some of these factors include:
- Loss of weight while recovering from eating less solid foods is likely to result in a temporarily more slender face.
- Less puffiness in the cheeks after impacted teeth are extracted due to reduced inflammation.
- A more proper alignment of the jaw following extraction might make your face feel slightly different but won’t drastically alter the way it looks.
If you’re not sure, your dentist West Edmonton can present before-and-after X-rays to demonstrate precisely what has changed.
Cosmetic Considerations
For those who are concerned about the appearance of the face, it’s worth noting that the main reason for wisdom teeth removal is health. Any difference in appearance is typically small and temporary.
Instead of concentrating on looks, it’s more beneficial to consider wisdom teeth removal as a means of enhancing long-term dental function, avoiding infections, and maintaining a healthy bite. If you’re still worried, you can always have cosmetic dentistry alternatives addressed separately with your practitioner.
Seeking Answers You Can Trust?
If you’re still wondering things such as does your face look slimmer after wisdom teeth removal, it might be time to consult with a dental professional who can evaluate your case on an individual basis. Wisdom teeth removal is routine and safe—and when performed at the right moment, it can prevent future complications.
Your Smile, Your Health — We’re Here to Help
Considering getting your wisdom teeth removed but worried about appearance or recovery? At Westside Family Dental, we’re here to assist and guide you with reliable guidance and skilled care. If you’re experiencing pain or if you just want to know more about your options, our staff stands ready to address your questions and offer secure, effective treatment.
Searching for a dentist near you who has experience with wisdom teeth removal? Call us today to arrange an appointment and begin the journey toward improved oral health and peace of mind.