Mint Dental Care Blog

Book Online

Everything You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth Extractions

June 2, 2026

Everything You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Sunnyvale

If you’re feeling a dull ache in the back of your jaw or your dentist just mentioned "third molars" during your last check-up, you likely have questions about wisdom teeth removal. At Mint Dental Care in Sunnyvale, we know that the idea of oral surgery can be a bit intimidating.

Our goal is to make your experience as comfortable as possible. To help you prepare, Dr. Andrew Nguyen and Dr. Michelle Nguyen have put together this FAQ guide to answer the most common questions we hear from our patients.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are wisdom teeth, and why do I have them?

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. Historically, they helped our ancestors chew a tougher diet of roots and raw meats. Today, our jaws are often too small to accommodate them, leading to crowding or impaction.

2. Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed?

If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted (grown in), positioned correctly, and easy to clean, you might get to keep them! However, most people require extraction because there simply isn’t enough room in the mouth, which can lead to:

  • Impaction: Teeth may get stuck under the gum line.
  • Crowding: Your other teeth may shift out of alignment.
  • Infection: Difficult areas to reach or clean can become breeding grounds for bacteria.

3. Is the procedure painful?

This is the most common concern! At Mint Dental Care, your comfort is our priority. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the area. For patients who feel extra anxious, we offer various sedation options to ensure you are relaxed and at ease throughout the entire process. You shouldn’t feel any pain during the surgery.

4. How long does the recovery take?

Most patients feel back to their normal selves within 3 to 5 days. While full healing of the gums and bone can take a few weeks, you can typically return to work or school after a day or two of rest.

5. What can I eat after surgery?

Stick to soft, cool foods for the first 24–48 hours. These include:

  • Smoothies (but no straws!)
  • Yogurt and applesauce
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Lukewarm soups
  • Pudding or Jell-O

Pro Tip: Avoid using straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for at least a week. These actions can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful condition called "dry socket."

Why Choose Mint Dental Care for Your Sunnyvale Extraction?

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, our office is designed to provide a relaxing environment. We combine the latest technology with a gentle, personalized approach to oral surgery. Whether you live in Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, or Mountain View, we are here to help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile.

Ready to Schedule Your Consultation?

Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. If you’re looking for expert wisdom teeth removal in Sunnyvale, CA, our team is ready to help.

Contact Us Today

Phone: (408) 400-3133

Address: 927 E Arques Ave Suite 171, Sunnyvale, CA 94085

Website Design & Marketing by Optima