Wisdom Tooth Removal for Teens: What Parents Need to Know
- Dr. Kevin Young
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
As your child enters their late teens, it’s not uncommon to hear a dentist say, “It might be time to talk about their wisdom teeth.” For many teens, these third molars begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, often becoming a source of discomfort, or complications, if left untreated.
If you're a parent navigating this stage, understanding the process of wisdom tooth evaluation and removal can help you make confident, informed decisions that support your teen’s oral health and overall comfort.
Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need to Be Removed
Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to come in and often don’t have enough room to emerge properly. When this happens, they can:
Grow in sideways or become impacted (stuck beneath the gum line)
Push against other teeth, causing crowding or shifting
Trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of decay or infection
Lead to swelling, pain, or jaw stiffness
Removing them before problems develop, or as soon as issues arise, is often the best course of action.
Signs It May Be Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth
Not all teens need their wisdom teeth removed, but some signs can indicate the need for an evaluation:
Jaw pain or tightness in the back of the mouth
Swollen or bleeding gums around rear molars
Frequent headaches or earaches
Difficulty opening the mouth fully
Shifting or crowding of front teeth (especially after braces)
Regular dental visits and panoramic X-rays are the best way to monitor development and determine timing for removal.
What Parents Can Expect from the Process
Wisdom tooth removal is a common and safe procedure, and most teens recover fully within a few days to a week. Here's a brief overview of what to expect:
1. Initial Evaluation
Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess the position of the teeth and surrounding structures using X-rays to determine the need and timing for extraction.
2. The Procedure
Most extractions take under an hour and are done in-office. Sedation options including general anesthetic are available for comfort and ease, especially for teens with impacted or multiple wisdom teeth.
3. Recovery
Mild swelling and discomfort are normal for a few days post-procedure. Teens will be asked to rest, stick to soft foods, and follow aftercare instructions to promote healing.
Why Summer (or School Breaks) Are Ideal for Removal
Although wisdom teeth can be removed any time of year, summer or scheduled school breaks offer a more convenient option for both teens and parents:
No missed classes or exams
Plenty of time to rest and recover without academic stress
Easier to plan around vacations or extracurriculars
If your teen is experiencing symptoms, or has been told their wisdom teeth should come out, it may be worth scheduling a consultation now, while there’s more flexibility in their calendar.
Helping Your Teen Feel Comfortable
Many teens feel anxious about dental surgery. Reassure them by:
Talking through the process calmly and positively
Emphasizing that it’s a routine, low-risk procedure
Planning some post-surgery comfort (movies, smoothies, a few days off)
At Young Dentistry, we take a gentle, supportive approach to care, especially when working with teens and young adults. We’ll walk you and your teen through every step, answer questions, and make sure they feel as comfortable as possible from start to finish.
Book a Consultation with Young Dentistry
If you’re wondering whether it’s the right time for your teen’s wisdom teeth evaluation, we’re happy to help. Our team offers experience, compassion, and modern technology including sedation options and a welcoming atmosphere tailored for younger patients.