Helping Your Teen Through Their Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth removal is often considered a teenage rite of passage. If your teen is scheduled for their extraction soon, chances are they (and you) have a lot of questions. While it’s a very common procedure, it can still feel overwhelming. 

The good news is that with a bit of preparation and some thoughtful aftercare, you can help your teen sail through the experience with confidence and comfort. Here’s what our experts at Rifkin Dental in Carmel and Yorktown Heights, New York, want you and your teen to know about wisdom teeth removal and recovery. 

Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth (also known as third molars) typically show up between the ages of 17-25. Some teens hardly notice these third molars popping through. But for many others, there just isn’t enough room in their mouth, which can lead to:

• Pain or swelling
• Overcrowding
• Infection or gum issues
• Cysts
• Damage to nearby teeth

That’s why many dentists and oral surgeons recommend removing wisdom teeth early, often before the roots have fully developed. Doing so typically means a quicker, easier recovery. 

Prepping your teen for the procedure

Preparation is key to keeping your teen calm and making surgery day go as smoothly as possible. Here are a few helpful tips. 

Talk it out 

Walk your teen through what to expect before, during, and after their wisdom teeth are extracted. Knowing what’s coming helps reduce anxiety. Reassure them that it’s a very common, low-risk procedure and that their dental team is highly experienced.

The procedure itself usually takes less than an hour. Your teen will be given local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the case and their comfort level.

Once they’re numb or sedated, the oral surgeon will:

• Make a small incision in their gums (if the teeth haven’t erupted yet)
• Remove their wisdom teeth
• Clean the area and stitch it up (if needed)

Your teen will rest in a recovery area until the sedation wears off, and then you’ll be sent home with detailed aftercare instructions.

Follow pre-op instructions

Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific guidelines, like not eating or drinking before surgery (especially if they’ll be sedated). Be sure your teen follows these instructions to avoid delays or complications.

Plan for transportation

If we use sedation or general anesthesia, your teen will need someone to drive them home. Please ensure you clear your schedule for the day and plan to stay nearby during the procedure.

Prep the recovery space

Set up a cozy recovery area at home with pillows, blankets, and entertainment ahead of time. Think movies, books, or even a new show to binge together. Stock up on soft foods, ice packs, and pain meds.

Helping your teen recover smoothly

The first 24-72 hours after surgery are usually the most uncomfortable and most vulnerable. Here’s how you can ensure a smooth recovery. 

Stay on top of meds

Follow the pain management instructions carefully. It’s easier to prevent pain than to catch up once it’s bad. Keep a schedule for any prescribed or over-the-counter medication.

Encourage ice and rest

Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals to help reduce swelling. Encourage your teen to take it easy — no sports, heavy lifting, or physical activity for a few days.

Stick to soft foods

Smoothies, mashed potatoes, applesauce, pudding, and broth-based soups are your new best friends. Avoid anything crunchy, chewy, spicy, or hot for the first few days.

Straws are also a big no-no during wisdom teeth removal recovery, as sucking can dislodge the blood clots. Make meals and snacks that are spoon-friendly.

Watch for complications

Some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort are normal, but keep an eye out for signs of infection, prolonged bleeding, or dry socket (a painful condition that occurs when a blood clot becomes dislodged). If anything seems off, call your dentist right away.

Be patient and positive

Recovery isn’t always glamorous, and your teen may be tired, sore, or cranky for a couple of days. Keep a positive attitude, give them space to rest, and don’t forget that a little humor goes a long way, especially if they say something funny after anesthesia. 

Wisdom teeth extraction may seem like a big deal, but with your support, it can be a smooth, manageable experience for everyone. By preparing ahead of time and staying involved in your teen’s recovery, you’re not just helping them heal; you’re also showing them how to navigate life’s little bumps with confidence and care.

If you have any concerns about your teen’s upcoming extraction or recovery, or you need to schedule an extraction consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out online or over the phone today to our Rifkin Dental location closest to you. We’re here to help every step of the way.