Wisdom Teeth Removal: What Teens Should Expect

Before the procedure

Before your wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will:

- Take X-rays of your teeth and jaws to see the location of your wisdom teeth and determine the best way to remove them.

- Prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to take after the procedure.

- Give you instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, such as fasting for 8 hours before the procedure.

- Ensure you have a driver to take you home. You may be groggy after the anesthesia, so it's important to have someone you can trust to get you home safely.

- Discuss the risks and complications that could occur from removing the teeth. This is an opportunity for you or your parents to ask any final questions you have.

During the procedure

On the day of your surgery, you'll be given general anesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has kicked in, your dentist or oral surgeon will:

- Make incisions in your gums to expose the wisdom teeth.

- Remove any bone that is covering the wisdom teeth.

- Use forceps to grasp the wisdom teeth and pull them out of the sockets.

- Clean the sockets and suture the incisions closed.

It's important to relax during the procedure, even though you may feel some pressure during removal. Try not to worry, as your dentist or oral surgeon is experienced and will take care of you.

After the procedure

After your surgery, you'll be taken to a recovery room where you can rest for a while before going home. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising around your mouth and jaw. Your dentist or oral surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help with the discomfort.

For the first few days after surgery, you should:

- Take it easy and rest as much as possible.

- Apply ice packs to your face to reduce swelling.

- Eat soft foods and avoid anything that is hard or chewy.

- Avoid strenuous activity that could raise your blood pressure.

- Stick to a diet of soft foods, like applesauce, yogurt, and ice cream.

- Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day to keep the area clean and prevent infection.

- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.

- Follow your dentist's or oral surgeon's instructions for care after the surgery.

Recovery

Most people recover from wisdom teeth removal within a few days to a week. However, it may take several weeks for the pain and swelling to completely go away. During this time, it is important to follow your dentist's instructions for care after the surgery.

If you have any concerns or questions about your recovery, be sure to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.