I've been unsure whether to post this, but after spending countless hours myself researching before I had my wisdoms removed - most of the info you find on Reddit and anywhere online is from younger people and their experiences. Being in my 30's, I figured posting this might help ease some peoples worries. Because truthfully? I was absolutely crapping myself FOR NOTHING. So feel free to follow along on my somewhat atrocious dental journey lol.
CONTEXT:
I'm 32, female & just had 6 teeth (wisdoms + 2 adult molars) removed under general anaesthetic last Friday (24/04/2026). Idk if this matters but I live in Perth, Western Australia. My wisdom teeth were very impacted, one adult molar (top left next to wisdom) had partially fallen out due to rot, same with my bottom right wisdom tooth. To preface, I have SEVERE mental health issues & substance abuse disorder that led to me putting off any dental work for over 4 years. I'm not even scared of the dentist, but I do have an extreme needle phobia/medical procedure phobia that contributed to this.
COMPLICATIONS/DENTAL ISSUES:
One thing I will say, is I have definitely seen a change in my facial structure due to these wisdoms. In hindsight, my dentist said it's definitely because of the infection, and the fact I waited 4 years to get treatment - so maybe don't do that lol. I've had to have some bone grafting done, but the left top side of my face is no longer the same as my right - there's a pretty big visual difference. I also have lost nearly 20kg from not being able to eat before surgery, and have lost 2kg since surgery 4 days ago.
POST-OP SO FAR:
I'm 4 days post op, and I've had little to no pain. I had zero swelling, at all. The hardest part for me has been not being able to smoke. I am a cannabis smoker daily & cigarettes as well, and I'm 5 days smoke free. I'm determined not to get dry socket, lol. Today is the first day I've physically felt/noticed the stitches in my mouth, so I just have to be careful when talking, etc. I've been following my post-op care as per my surgeon & dentist, and so far so good. The worst part of the whole thing was paying just over $2500 to get it done privately lol.
That, and I'm struggling not to smoke! I may update this ins a few days if anyone becomes interested, but otherwise this is mostly just here for anyone closer in my age who is going through similar or about to. I promise - it's not that bad if you follow the post op instructions properly!