Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Your Facial Appearance?

Q: Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Your Facial Appearance?

Hello Andy： 1. <br>Usually, one side is extracted first before the other, otherwise both sides will have wounds, making it uncomfortable and troublesome to eat. <br>2. <br>The differences among most people are not significant, and the appearance of the facial shape is often not a

Will wisdom tooth extraction affect the appearance of the face?

I have two upper wisdom teeth that have started to emerge, but the upper left wisdom tooth is causing some discomfort while eating.
Doctor, should I remove both upper wisdom teeth at once, or just the upper left one? The most important question is whether removing the wisdom teeth will cause any noticeable changes to my facial appearance compared to not removing them.

andy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/10/05

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry

Hello Andy: 1.
Usually, one side is extracted first before the other, otherwise both sides will have wounds, making it uncomfortable and troublesome to eat.
2.
The differences among most people are not significant, and the appearance of the facial shape is often not affected.

Reply Date: 2002/10/05

More Info

Wisdom tooth extraction can indeed have an impact on facial appearance, although the extent of this effect varies from person to person. The primary reason for this potential change is related to the position and alignment of the teeth and jaw. When wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, become impacted or misaligned, they can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to crowding or shifting. This can alter the overall symmetry and shape of the face over time.

In your case, since you mentioned that your upper left wisdom tooth is causing discomfort while eating, it may be advisable to consider extraction. If both upper wisdom teeth are problematic, extracting them simultaneously could be beneficial, as it may prevent future complications and the need for additional procedures later on. However, the decision should ultimately be made in consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon, who can assess your specific situation through X-rays and a clinical examination.

Regarding the impact on facial appearance, there are a few factors to consider:
1. Jaw Alignment: If your wisdom teeth are causing misalignment of your jaw or other teeth, their removal may help restore proper alignment, which can lead to a more balanced facial appearance. This is particularly relevant if the wisdom teeth are pushing against other teeth.

2. Facial Structure: The extraction of wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to a slight reduction in the width of the jaw, especially if the teeth are large or if there is significant crowding. This change may be subtle but can contribute to a more refined facial contour.

3. Soft Tissue Changes: After extraction, the soft tissues in the mouth and around the jaw may change as they heal. This can lead to a temporary swelling that eventually subsides, potentially altering the appearance of the face in the short term.

4. Long-Term Effects: Over time, if the wisdom teeth are causing issues, their removal may prevent further dental problems that could lead to more significant changes in facial structure, such as bone loss or further misalignment of the teeth.

It is important to note that while some individuals report a change in their facial appearance after wisdom tooth extraction, others may not notice any significant difference. The changes are often subtle and may not be the primary reason for undergoing the procedure.
In summary, if you are experiencing discomfort from your wisdom teeth, it is advisable to discuss your options with your dentist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dental health and aesthetic goals. Ultimately, maintaining good oral health and addressing any issues with your wisdom teeth can contribute positively to your overall facial appearance and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Make Your Chin Look Longer?

Because my wisdom teeth are growing in crooked, the doctor advised me to have them removed. However, my chin is already long, and I’ve heard that some celebrities have their wisdom teeth removed to slim their faces. Will removing them make my already long chin look even longer?

Dr. Chu Boqin reply Dentistry
Hello, regarding wisdom teeth: They typically emerge around the age of 20, at which point growth and development are nearing completion. The jawbone will not increase in size or length anymore, and the cheeks may appear smaller due to the teeth protruding towards the buccal side,...

Can Wisdom Tooth Removal Change Your Face Shape?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I came across childhood photos and noticed that my facial shape is quite different from what it used to be. I still have all four of my wisdom teeth, although they have been filled due to cavities. I often hear people say that removing wisdom teeth can som...

Dr. Cao Guoqing reply Dentistry
There is a potential impact.

Will My Face Shape Change If My Wisdom Tooth Grows Forward?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if the extraction of the lower left second molar, along with the presence of an already partially erupted wisdom tooth, will affect the shape of my face and mouth if the wisdom tooth continues to grow forward.

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: A single crooked tooth may not affect the facial shape or mouth shape, but it can impact occlusion and even the temporomandibular joint. It is advisable to consult an orthodontist to determine if it can be repositioned to replace the second molar!

Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect the Height or Alignment of Other Teeth?

About a week ago, I had my horizontal wisdom tooth extracted at the clinic. During the extraction, the crown of my second molar came off and was kept by the doctor. After seven days, I had my stitches removed, and the crown was reattached. However, after it was reattached, the he...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Chuang, Hello! It appears that the original dentures are about to fall out, and they have become ill-fitting just one week after placement, which is uncommon. There is slight movement of the teeth. Is there a possibility of periodontal disease? I plan to conduct a more ...