Feeling nervous about your upcoming wisdom teeth surgery? You’re not alone—and your social media feed might be part of the reason.
A recent study published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (JOMS) found that viewing social media content prior to wisdom teeth surgery can increase anxiety levels in patients. With so much of today’s health information (and misinformation) coming from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, this insight is more important than ever—especially for younger patients. Protecting your oral health starts with trusted information. Our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons help patients in the Twin Cities feel confident about their dental procedures, without unnecessary fear.
At EOS Oral Surgery, we believe informed, compassionate care is the best antidote to fear. Here’s what you should know.
What the Study Found
The AAOMS-backed study looked at 125 patients between the ages of 18 and 30—the age group most likely to undergo wisdom teeth removal and most active on social media. Here’s what they discovered:
- The findings suggest that social media may amplify pre-surgery nerves, particularly when it lacks professional context or accuracy.
- Patients who viewed social media content prior to their surgery reported significantly higher anxiety levels.
- Negative or dramatized content, including exaggerated stories and misleading videos, had the greatest impact.
Wisdom tooth removal and other common surgical procedures are safe and routine when performed by qualified specialists. Understanding the reality of wisdom teeth extractions—rather than relying on dramatic online stories—can help ease pre-surgery anxiety.
“It’s completely normal to feel nervous before oral surgery, but what you see on social media isn’t always a realistic reflection of the experience. At EOS, we aim to educate and reassure every patient with accurate information and compassionate care.”
— Dr. Diana Jee Hyun Lyu, Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
How to Reduce Anxiety Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
Feeling anxious? There are ways to take control of your experience and ease your nerves:
- Ask questions early. Knowing what to expect goes a long way in reducing fear.
- Schedule a consultation with your oral surgeon. Get clear answers, see the treatment plan, and understand your options.
- Limit time on social media before surgery. Not all experiences you see online are real—or relevant to your case.
What to Expect at EOS
At EOS, our surgeons are highly experienced in wisdom teeth removal, helping patients across Savage, Eden Prairie, and Shakopee feel confident and cared for from start to finish.
- Comprehensive imaging and evaluation
- A range of sedation options for your comfort
- A team that listens to your concerns—without judgment
- Personalized aftercare to guide your recovery
Every dental treatment plan is personalized to match your needs, whether you’re preparing for wisdom tooth removal, a dental implant, or another procedure. EOS is committed to making every dental procedure a calm, clear experience.
→ Explore our full process for wisdom teeth removal
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Surgeon, Not Your Feed
Social media isn’t all bad—but when it comes to your health, trusting a board-certified oral surgeon will always serve you better than an influencer’s viral video. If you or your child is preparing for wisdom teeth removal, don’t rely on speculation. Let us help you understand the facts and feel fully prepared.
If you’re feeling uncertain after seeing posts online, the best first step is to schedule an appointment with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon. We’ll walk you through exactly what to expect—and what not to worry about.
→ Schedule a consultation at any of our EOS locations in the Twin Cities: Savage, Eden Prairie, or Shakopee.
