The Teens Guide To: Wisdom Teeth Removal

​I recently got my wisdom teeth removed, and it was definitely an experience I wasn’t expecting. I have never had a surgery before, so being in that kind of pain for so long was a little rough on me. I’m going to format this post in a Q&A kinda way. Feel free to ask your own questions in the comments below.

I got my wisdom teeth out during the 2 week winter break so that I would have time to recover before going back to school. If you are interested in getting your wisdom teeth removed over a break like that, keep in mind that there are lots of other people thinking the same thing. Be sure to set up your appointment pretty far in advance so you can get it done when you are hoping to.

What about experimental drugs?

There are many programs out there that will pay you to have your wisdom teeth removed while testing experimental drugs on you. I did not go with this option because I wanted to be knocked out during the operation. If you are okay with being awake during your operation, this may be a good option for you. Look into some different companies nearby if you are interested in that option.

Should I be nervous?

I was nervous to get my wisdom teeth out because of the idea of going under is a little scary to me. Trust me though, there isn’t anything to be worried about. They took me back to the operation room, took my blood pressure, and hooked me up to a heart monitor. They next put surface numbing onto my arm and then stuck the IV into my arm. About a minute after they turned on the anesthesia I remember the doctor asking “How do you feel.” I replied with “A little lightheaded.” He told me to go ahead and lay my head back. I was out just like that.

What if my mom records embarrassing videos of me!?

You may find comfort in the idea that not everyone that is put on anesthesia will say crazy things when they come to. I know I didn’t (or at least my mom hasn’t shown me about any crazy videos if she did…).

How long will it take to recover?

Some people recover faster than others. It took me about a week to feel completely over it. I have friends who felt fine after 3 days. I found that my mouth wasn’t sore the full week, but my jaw was.

What kinds of food can I eat?

I ate a lot of soup and ice cream. You can definitely expect a few days of eating soft foods. Over all though, I didn’t eat very much for a week. I was lightheaded a lot, and actually lost 10 pounds over the course of a week.

How can I avoid infection?

The surgeon that performed my surgery stitched my sockets closed with dissolving thread. I went back after a week not to get my stitches out, but so the nurse could show me how to clean out my sockets. They gave me a syringe that you fill with water and squirt into your sockets to clean out any food that may get stuck in there. I was also given bacteria killing mouthwash to rinse with twice a day. As long as you stay on top of this until the gums heal, it shouldn't be too hard to avoid infection.

How long does it take for your gums to heal?

It depends on the person. I found that the left side of my mouth healed up quickly, but it’s been a month and my right side hasn’t. I think it’s because I sleep on my right side every night, but I’m not really sure.

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I hope that this helps you to feel more prepared for your surgery. The most important take away from this is that you shouldn't be nervous. All they are going to do is put you to sleep for a few hours and there isn't anything else to worry about :)