Summer is often a peak season for wisdom tooth removal, especially for teenagers. For many young people, this may be their first experience of surgery and anesthesia, so they are prone to nervousness. As a dental professional, it is particularly important to help patients relieve anxiety and build confidence.
Jason Auerbach, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram, shares his professional advice on wisdom tooth removal to help patients complete the surgery smoothly and effectively manage postoperative recovery.
How to help young patients prepare?
“For most teenagers, wisdom tooth removal is their first experience of surgery and anesthesia,” said Dr. Auerbach. “We need to communicate in a clear and empathetic way to let them know that this is a safe, routine and controllable procedure.” He said that setting reasonable expectations is key, while also making patients and their parents understand every step and precautions.
Parents also play a role. Preoperative reminders, postoperative care, etc. all require their participation. Therefore, doctors should communicate with parents as soon as possible to let them know the whole process.
In addition, it is more effective to explain possible situations in advance than to deal with problems after they occur. “I recommend that patients prepare soft foods, ice packs, pain medications, and clear their schedule for a few days after surgery. Recovery is usually smooth and predictable as long as the doctor’s instructions are followed and treatment is followed.”
Key Times for Post-Extraction Care
Dr. Auerbach points out that the first three to four days after surgery are the “acute phase,” and common symptoms include mild to moderate pain, swelling, and bruising. These reactions peak 48 hours after surgery and then gradually subside.
If there is persistent bleeding within 12 to 24 hours after surgery, it is a cause for concern. If the prescribed pain medication does not relieve the pain, it may also be a sign of dry socket or infection. “Usually the third or fourth day is a critical point. If the pain is getting better and then worse again, accompanied by pain radiating to the ear or jaw, it is time to contact the doctor immediately,” he said.
Other warning signs include increased swelling, local redness and warmth, a high body temperature, or persistent numbness of the lips, chin, or tongue. Although temporary numbness is not uncommon when the nerve is close, doctors still want to know about it as early as possible.
Home Care Tips
What you eat and do in the first week after surgery directly affects your recovery. Dr. Auerbach recommends that patients avoid hard or crumbly foods and choose soft, easy-to-chew options, such as pasta, scrambled eggs, or ice cream. “These foods can be eaten by simply pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth,” he said.
It is also important to avoid using a straw to prevent negative pressure from causing wound problems. To ensure hydration and energy intake, patients can drink electrolyte drinks or juices, such as Gatorade or apple juice.
It is worth noting that swimming should be avoided for 3 to 5 days after surgery—whether it is a pool or natural body of water, it increases the risk of oral infection. And strenuous exercise is not recommended within 3 days after surgery, and it is usually necessary to rest for up to 7 days.
“Relax, it’s summer!” Dr. Auerbach smiled. He encouraged patients to get enough rest, avoid stress, and actively cooperate with postoperative care.