Ayumi, one my students, recently had one of her wisdom teeth removed. (But bless her heart, she is still willing to turn pages for me for the musical.) I asked her if she was only getting one of her wisdom teeth removed and she said, "No." I was then reminded of a cultural difference between Japan and America.

In America we like to get things done quickly and efficiently. All of my wisdom teeth where removed in one appointment, and then I went for one check-up to make sure I didn't have dry socket. In Japan, they like to elongate processes. For wisdom teeth removal, each tooth is taken out individually. Then they will have about two check-up appointments for each tooth to make sure everything is okay.

One more example: One of the teachers at school is having surgery on his hernia. After his surgery he will remain in the hospital one month to recover. It's a good thing insurance covers more over here!