How to Prepare Your Teen for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Parents, we get it — your teen is likely not thrilled about the idea of wisdom teeth removal, and who can blame them? Although it’s a common dental procedure, the thought of having teeth pulled is daunting. 

Fortunately, with a bit of planning, you can ease their worries and prepare them for the procedure and recovery. 

At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants in Covington and Slidell, Louisiana, Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith guide countless teens and their families through this process. Preparing your teen mentally, emotionally, and practically can make a world of difference in their comfort and recovery. Here’s how to do it.

First, address any fear or anxiety 

For many teens, wisdom teeth removal is their first significant dental procedure. It’s normal to feel nervous, but providing the right information demystifies the experience. Brush up on the basics and take time to explain the procedure to your teen in terms they’ll understand. 

Let them know that wisdom teeth removal is a routine and safe procedure and that our experienced specialists perform it regularly. 

Also, explain how the procedure helps prevent problems later, like overcrowding, pain, or infection. 

If your kid has questions, encourage them to write them down and talk with us — most teens appreciate being part of the process. 

Reassure them that sedation options, like local anesthetics, make the surgery relatively painless. If your teen is particularly anxious, we offer additional sedation methods to keep them calm and comfortable during the procedure. 

Stock up for recovery 

Once the surgery is complete, your teen needs time to recover comfortably at home. Ensuring you have the right supplies on hand makes the process a lot easier. Stock up on some essentials.

Soft foods:

• Mashed potatoes
• Yogurt
• Smoothies
• Blended soups or broths
• Applesauce
• Pudding

Pain management supplies:

• Ice packs to reduce swelling
• Over-the-counter pain relief (as recommended by your dentist)

Oral care items:

• Gauze pads to manage bleeding
• A syringe or rinse bottle (if prescribed) to gently clean the surgical area

Other comfort items:

• Pillows for support to keep their head elevated
• Entertainment, such as books or access to TV, to keep them resting

Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or require chewing — they can irritate the surgical site. 

Finally, make sure your teen knows not to use a straw. This seemingly innocent action can dislodge blood clots and lead to a dry socket, a painful postsurgical complication. 

Know what to expect 

Recovery may feel a little uncomfortable during the first 48 hours, but it’s typically manageable with rest and over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®). 

Mild swelling, some bleeding, and a bit of soreness are all normal parts of the recovery process. But monitor your teen for signs of complications. 

Call us immediately if you notice:

• Excessive bleeding that doesn’t subside after applying pressure 
• Fever or chills 
• Pus or unusual discharge from the surgical site 
• Severe swelling that worsens after a few days 

Rest assured, complications are rare, and we provide clear instructions on what to look for. 

Set expectations for school and activities 

Recovery takes a few days, so plan ahead for your teen to miss some school or extracurricular activities. Talk to their teachers or coaches about any assignments or responsibilities they need to follow up on once they feel better. 

Most teens can return to school within three to five days, but depending on their physical activities (such as sports), they may need additional time before fully resuming. 

Preparing your teen for wisdom teeth removal doesn’t need to be stressful. By addressing their concerns, setting up their recovery space, and staying informed, you can help your teen breeze through this milestone dental procedure. 

If you’re unsure about the next steps or need more guidance, call us at St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants.