The third set of molars, commonly called wisdom teeth, usually appear on X-rays during adolescence. Around the end of high school and into college age, these extra teeth have the potential to cause trouble in the form of pain, swelling, gum disease, and cavities.
At Lee Dental, in Frisco, Texas, our team of dental experts can care for your teen’s wisdom teeth, but it’s easiest when you prepare them ahead of time. For many young adults, wisdom teeth extraction might be the first time they encounter surgery.
The unexpected can be an uncomfortable place for a teen. Awareness of themselves and the world is still developing and new things and new experiences abound.
For someone who’s had it fairly easy in terms of oral care, the discomfort and pain that impacted wisdom teeth can cause can be upsetting. Tooth extraction may be a dramatic change from the dental work they’ve experienced in the past.
Consider these preparation tips for discussion with your teen. Knowing what’s coming can make the experience easier to navigate.
Explaining why your teen needs their wisdom teeth removed may be easier if they’re experiencing pain, gum inflammation, teeth crowding, or interference with orthodontic work.
If your teen is asymptomatic, it’s helpful to outline these potential complications to get his or her buy-in.
Having wisdom teeth extracted in the late teens or early 20s is an optimal time, as growth is largely finished, your child is in good health, and their ability to recover reduces the risk of complications. Wisdom teeth extraction may also be tolerated better at this age than later in life.
Help your teen turn their worries into questions for our dentists and staff. They may want to know things like:
Becoming involved in the process increases your teen’s sense of empowerment. The experience will be easier if they feel they have a say in the procedure and its outcome.
We’ll provide instructions that outline what your teen needs to do before the extractions, on the day of the procedure, and through the stages of recovery. Make sure they know and understand their role in their treatment.
These instructions include recommendations for pain relief as well as what and when your teen can eat. Another important part of extraction care is clot protection to avoid a painful condition called dry socket. Following all instructions assures the most comfortable and quick recovery.
As with so many things, preparation is the best way to handle wisdom teeth extraction. At Lee Dental, we’re always ready to help. Call or click to book a consultation for your teen today.
