Will Your Face Look Slimmer After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Will Your Face Look Slimmer After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

by Concord Oral Surgery

Reviewed By Dr. Robert Barron, DMD

Reading Time: 4 minutes

After wisdom teeth removal, you may experience ‘chipmunk cheeks. This is a totally normal reaction to surgery! Your body is working hard to heal from the surgery that just took place.  

But once all the swelling subsides, will your face shape change?

This is a common concern for many patients, so let’s talk about it! In this blog, we will explain how wisdom teeth removal affects your face and what to expect during the healing process.

Key Takeaway

Your face will not look slimmer or sunken after wisdom teeth extraction. Temporary swelling is common, but once it subsides and healing completes, your facial structure returns to its natural and balanced appearance. The extraction might even improve facial symmetry if impacted wisdom teeth were causing swelling.

Does Removing Wisdom Teeth Change Face Shape?

So let’s answer that question right off the bat. 

Removing wisdom teeth does not change your face shape. Wisdom teeth don’t affect your face shape, so removing them will have no effect on the structure of your face. 

If you have been having trouble with your wisdom teeth, you may have experienced persistent swelling or inflammation that affects your face shape. Removing the wisdom teeth can alleviate that swelling and restore your face to its natural appearance once the healing process is complete.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure Details

Understanding the steps of the procedure will help you understand why your body reacts the way it does to the surgery. 

When performed at Concord Oral Surgery, the procedure generally follows these steps:

  • Wisdom tooth extraction involves the surgical removal of third molars that are often impacted or misaligned.
  • An incision is made in the gum tissue to access the tooth and may need to remove small amounts of surrounding bone.
  • The tooth is then extracted, either in one piece or sectioned into smaller parts for easier removal. The area is cleaned, and sutures are applied if necessary.

The complexity of the procedure varies depending on the position and condition of the wisdom teeth. For example, deeply impacted teeth may require more extensive bone removal. 

Immediate Effects on Facial Appearance

Post-surgical swelling is a common and expected response. It is caused by increased blood flow and the body’s natural inflammatory reaction to healing.

Why swelling occurs:

  • Blood vessels dilate to deliver essential nutrients and cells to the surgical site.
  • Soft tissues temporarily retain fluid as part of the repair process.

Managing swelling:

  • Apply ice packs to the affected area in 20-minute intervals during the first 48 hours.
  • Use prescribed medications, including anti-inflammatories, to reduce discomfort.
  • Maintain an elevated head position to minimize fluid buildup.

Swelling typically peaks within 48 hours and begins to subside after a few days. In some cases, minor puffiness may persist for up to two weeks, depending on individual healing rates and the extent of the surgical procedure.

FAQs

Does removing wisdom teeth change face shape permanently?

No, most changes are subtle and temporary. Once healing is complete, your face will return to its natural shape.

Can impacted wisdom teeth cause facial asymmetry?

Yes, impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes contribute to facial asymmetry. When a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, it can cause localized swelling, inflammation, or even infection, which may temporarily affect the symmetry of your face. In severe cases, chronic issues from impacted teeth, such as bone or tissue changes, could lead to more noticeable asymmetry.

Will my cheeks appear sunken after wisdom tooth removal?

No, properly healed extraction sites do not result in sunken cheeks. The surrounding bone and tissues adapt to maintain normal appearance.

What can I do to speed up recovery?

Follow your oral surgeon’s instructions after wisdom tooth removal, avoid strenuous physical activity, maintain gum health, and consume soft foods during the initial recovery period.

When can I resume regular activities?

Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, but avoid intense physical exertion for at least one week to avoid potential complications.

Choose Concord Oral Surgery For Wisdom Tooth Removal in Vaughan, ON

Oral surgeons use advanced imaging and surgical techniques to minimize trauma and ensure precise outcomes. 

Dr. Barron, DMD, is an experienced and highly skilled oral surgeon who will work closely with you to ensure the best course of treatment for your unique situation.

If you have questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth, do not hesitate to contact us and schedule a consultation. 

To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Vaughan, call (905) 669-2616 or complete the appointment request form. We are located at 3300 Highway 7 West, Suite 805, Vaughan, ON.

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