Preparing Your Teen For A Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Growing up means that your wisdom teeth may come in at any point. For some people, wisdom teeth need to be extracted as they threaten the other teeth within your mouth. Wisdom tooth extractions are often a scary procedure for many teens and adults. Preparing your child beforehand for the procedure can help them feel comfortable while in the office.

Warn Your Child They May Feel Woozy

Feeling woozy may be scary to some children so it is important to let them know that this can happen. Most teenagers are lightheaded and tired after the procedure. It is best to have a ride for your teen as he or she will not be able to drive.

Recommend Soft Foods

Now is the time for your teen to stock up on their favorite pudding, ice cream, yogurt, and other soft foods. Many teens enjoy splurging when they eat but after the removal of your wisdom teeth, it is recommended that you avoid solid or hard foods.

Start Teaching Your Teen about the Aftercare

Taking care of your mouth after a wisdom tooth extraction can be overwhelming at first. By explaining the process and lending a helping hand, you can ease the worry your child may feel. Once your teen's wisdom teeth have been removed, there is often a sutured hole where the tooth used to be. The sutures dissolve on their own over a period of time. You should prepare your child for the aftercare process by letting them know that bleeding is normal after the first few hours.

Your teen will need to keep gauze and cotton in their mouth to help soak up the blood. In addition, your child should avoid sucking on straws as this can loosen a blood clot and cause the surgical area to begin bleeding again. When resting, your child should sleep with their head slightly propped up to avoid pain and ease swelling. Lastly, always make sure that your teen takes the recommended antibiotics prescribed to them, otherwise, an infection may occur. Helping to prepare your child by letting them know the aftercare tips will ensure they feel comfortable and prepared to care for their mouth.

Help Them Recognize Signs of Problems

Warning your child of the different signs of complications is one way to ensure they understand and can recognize when something is not right. Severe pain, excessive bleeding, and a swollen face are signs that there is more going on than healing.

It is important for your teen to seek help from their dentist when something like this occurs. The faster the issue is addressed, the quicker it can be avoided.

Prepare Early for the Big Day

Make sure your child is well rested before the surgery and help calm them down before you arrive at the office. Preparing them for the surgery beforehand will ensure a smooth surgery without anxiety. If you or your child have any questions about the process, you should speak with a dental care provider, such as Peter J. Kaufman, DMD, for advice and recommendations.