Taking Your Child to the Oral Surgeon - What You Should Know
Posted on 7/1/2025 by Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin Office |
 Taking your child to an oral surgeon can be a nerve-wracking experience for both you and your child. It's normal to have questions and concerns, especially if you're unfamiliar with the procedures involved. This article will provide you with information about what to expect when taking your child to an oral surgeon, from the initial consultation to the post-operative care.
What is an Oral Surgeon?
An oral surgeon is a dental professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, and jaws. They have completed additional years of training beyond dental school, focusing on surgical procedures. Oral surgeons perform a wide range of procedures, including:
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Extractions: This includes removing impacted teeth, wisdom teeth, and teeth that are too damaged to be repaired. |
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Dental implants: Oral surgeons place dental implants, which are artificial roots that replace missing teeth. |
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Corrective jaw surgery: This type of surgery corrects jaw misalignment, which can improve both function and appearance. |
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Treatment of oral diseases: Oral surgeons diagnose and treat various oral diseases, such as oral cancer and TMJ disorders. |
Why Would My Child Need to See an Oral Surgeon?
There are many reasons why a child might need to see an oral surgeon. Some of the most common reasons include:
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Impacted teeth: Impacted teeth are teeth that are unable to erupt through the gums. This can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. |
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Wisdom teeth removal: Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt, and they often don't have enough space to grow in properly. This can lead to crowding, pain, and infection. |
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Dental trauma: Oral surgeons can treat injuries to the mouth, teeth, and jaws, such as broken teeth, fractured jaws, and lacerations. |
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Congenital defects: Oral surgeons can treat congenital defects, such as cleft lip and palate. |
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Orthodontic surgery: Oral surgeons sometimes work with orthodontists to prepare the mouth for orthodontic treatment. |
What to Expect at the Consultation
The initial consultation with the oral surgeon is an opportunity to discuss your child's needs and learn more about the recommended treatment. During the consultation, the oral surgeon will:
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Review your child's medical and dental history. |
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Perform a thorough examination of your child's mouth and teeth. |
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Discuss the treatment options and answer any questions you have. |
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Explain the risks and benefits of the procedure. |
If surgery is necessary, the oral surgeon will discuss the details of the procedure, including the type of anesthesia used, the length of the surgery, and the recovery process.
Preparing Your Child for Surgery
Preparing your child for oral surgery can help them feel more comfortable and confident. Here are some tips:
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Talk to your child about the surgery in a calm and reassuring way. Explain what will happen in simple terms and answer any questions they may have. |
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Show your child pictures or videos of the oral surgeon's office and the operating room. This can help them familiarize themselves with the environment. |
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Let your child practice opening their mouth wide and lying still. This will help them during the procedure. |
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Pack a bag with your child's favorite blanket, toy, or book. This can help them feel more comfortable during their stay at the hospital. |
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Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep before the surgery. This will help them be well-rested and cooperative. |
Post-Operative Care
After surgery, it's important to follow the oral surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include:
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Taking pain medication as prescribed. |
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Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or chewy foods. |
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Rinsing your mouth with salt water several times a day. |
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Keeping the surgical site clean. |
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Avoiding strenuous activity. |
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Following up with the oral surgeon as instructed. |
Conclusion
Taking your child to an oral surgeon can be a stressful experience, but it's important to remember that oral surgeons are highly trained professionals who are dedicated to providing your child with the best possible care. By understanding what to expect and preparing your child for the procedure, you can help make the experience go smoothly.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child's oral health, don't hesitate to contact an oral surgeon. They can provide you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your child's care.
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