Wisdom Tooth Pain?

Here’s what I tell my patients before we remove them:

Hi, I’m Dr. Ajay Pachipulusu, and if there’s one question I hear almost every week at Smiles of Frisco, it’s this-

“My wisdom tooth hurts sometimes… but not always. Do I really need to remove it?”

And honestly, that’s a very fair question.

Wisdom tooth extraction isn’t something we rush into. My job isn’t just to remove teeth, it’s to help my patients make the right decision at the right time, without fear or pressure.

Let me walk you through how I explain this to my patients in the chair.

What Wisdom Teeth Are and Why They Often Cause Trouble?

Wisdom teeth usually show up in your late teens or early twenties. Years ago, jaws were larger and these teeth had space. Today, most people simply don’t have enough room.

When wisdom teeth don’t come in properly, I often see:

• Teeth stuck under the gums (impacted)
• Partial eruption that traps food and bacteria
• Teeth growing sideways and pressing on others

Patients usually come in saying:

• “My jaw feels sore in the mornings”
• “My gums feel swollen at the back”
• “It hurts when I chew on one side”

These aren’t things to ignore, especially when infections can quietly build underneath.

When I Actually Recommend Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Let me be very clear:
👉 Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed.

I usually recommend extraction only when keeping the tooth puts your health at risk, such as:

• Ongoing pain or pressure
• Gum infections that keep returning
• Damage to nearby teeth
• Decay in hard-to-clean areas

At Smiles of Frisco, we use digital imaging so I can show you exactly what’s happening not just tell you. That way, you’re making a decision with clarity, not fear.

Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Hurt?

Almost every patient asks this and I get it.

Here’s the honest answer I give:

“The idea of extraction is usually worse than the extraction itself.”

With modern anesthesia and gentle techniques:

• The procedure itself is pain-free
• We offer comfort-focused options for anxious patients
• Most people tell me afterward, “That was easier than I expected.”

My focus is always on protecting surrounding teeth, minimizing swelling and helping you heal quickly.

Recovery: What I Tell My Patients to Expect

Most patients recover within 3–5 days.

I usually say:

• Stick to soft foods for a couple of days
• Avoid straws and smoking
• Use ice packs the first 24–48 hours
• Follow our simple aftercare instructions

We also check healing afterward because good dentistry doesn’t stop once the tooth is out.

Why Frisco Families Trust Us?

Many of my patients come in because a friend, neighbor or family member sent them.

They choose Smiles of Frisco because we offer:

• Honest recommendations (not rushed decisions)
• Modern technology for safe, precise care
• Family-friendly treatment for teens and adults
• Clear, affordable treatment plans

And if tooth replacement is ever needed later, we also guide patients through options like dental implants always with long-term health in mind.

My Advice If You’re Unsure

If your wisdom tooth hurts sometimes, that’s usually your body giving you an early warning.

You don’t need to decide anything today.

But getting it checked early can save you pain, stress, and higher costs later.

👉 If you’re in Frisco and have questions, come see us.
We’ll take a look, explain what’s going on, and help you decide what’s best, no pressure.

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