Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure many teens undergo during high school or early college years. These third molars typically emerge between the ages 17 and 25, and removal is often recommended to prevent potential complications like impaction, infection, and crowding. Having a better idea of what to expect before your teen undergoes this procedure can help both of you feel more prepared about the process.
At Warren Oral Surgery, we specialize in wisdom teeth extraction for patients of all ages. Our six highly skilled surgeons have extensive experience performing these procedures with exceptional care and attention to detail. As this might be your teen’s first surgical experience, we take the time to thoroughly explain every step of the process, ensuring they feel comfortable and well-informed.
When Is the Right Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Many parents wonder about the ideal timing for wisdom teeth extraction. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, several factors can help determine when your teen should have their wisdom teeth removed:
- X-rays showing potential impaction or problematic eruption patterns
- Signs of pain, swelling, or infection around the back molars
- Recommendations from your dentist based on orthodontic concerns
- Evidence of damage to adjacent teeth
These indicators help us determine if and when intervention is necessary for your teen’s specific situation.
Most oral surgeons recommend removing wisdom teeth during the teenage years when the roots aren’t fully developed, typically between the ages 15 and18. Early removal allows us to address potential problems before they cause pain or damage to other teeth.
What to Expect During the Consultation
Before scheduling surgery, your teen will need a consultation appointment. During this visit:
- We’ll take panoramic X-rays if you don’t already have recent ones
- Our surgeon will examine your teen’s mouth and review their medical history
- We’ll discuss anesthesia options and what to expect during the procedure
- You’ll receive pre-operative instructions and have the opportunity to ask questions
- We’ll create a personalized treatment plan for your teen’s specific needs
This thorough consultation process ensures we address all concerns before proceeding with treatment.
This appointment is the perfect time to address any concerns you or your teen might have. We encourage both parents and teens to bring a list of questions to ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable with the upcoming procedure.
Understanding Anesthesia Options
One of the most common questions parents have concerns the type of anesthesia their teen will receive. At Warren Oral Surgery, we offer several options:
Local Anesthesia
This numbs only the surgical area while your teen remains fully awake. This option is typically used for simple extractions where only one or two wisdom teeth need to be removed.
Conscious Sedation
Administered through an IV, this option keeps your teen relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. They’ll be in a twilight state—drowsy but still able to respond to questions. Most teens have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.
General Anesthesia
For more complex cases or anxious patients, general anesthesia may be recommended. This puts your teen to sleep completely during the procedure. Our surgeons are highly trained in administering and monitoring anesthesia for maximum safety.
Preparing for Surgery Day
Proper preparation can help ensure a smooth experience on the day of surgery:
- Follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, especially regarding food and drink restrictions
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves to facilitate IV placement
- Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and nail polish before arriving
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive your teen home after the procedure
- Fill any prescribed medications beforehand
- Prepare soft foods and ice packs at home for the recovery period
Following these preparatory steps will help make surgery day go more smoothly for everyone involved.
We recommend scheduling the procedure during a school break when possible, as most teens need 3-7 days to recover comfortably before returning to normal activities.
Planning for Recovery
Recovery planning is an important part of preparing for wisdom teeth removal. You can expect:
- Swelling and mild discomfort for the first 48-72 hours
- Possible bruising around the jaw and cheeks
- Some bleeding during the first day
- Limited mouth opening for a few days
- Dietary restrictions for approximately one week
Having the following items on hand can make recovery more comfortable:
- Ice packs for reducing swelling
- Soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup
- Over-the-counter pain medication (as recommended by your surgeon)
- Extra pillows to keep your teen’s head elevated while resting
- Entertainment options that don’t require physical activity
Creating a comfortable recovery environment with these supplies will help your teen heal more comfortably.
Choose Warren Oral Surgery for Your Teen’s Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Warren Oral Surgery, we understand that having wisdom teeth removed is an important milestone for many teens. Our recently renovated facility features 15 new operatories equipped with the latest surgical technology, ensuring your teen receives the highest standard of care in a comfortable environment. With our office open six days a week, we provide convenient scheduling options that work around school and family commitments.
Our team of six highly skilled surgeons specializes in wisdom teeth extraction and is committed to making the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. We take pride in our ability to put anxious teens at ease while providing exceptional surgical care. To schedule a consultation for your teen’s wisdom teeth removal, contact us today at (908) 222-7922 or through our contact form.