CarolinasDentist Blog

Should My Teen Get Their Wisdom Teeth Removed Before College?

A group of 4 young teenage girls smile while outside

Whether your teenager is moving to another state for college or planning to attend a local school, it’s beneficial to remove problematic wisdom teeth before they start their first semester.

Prevent Unnecessary Pain & Stress to Aid Success

The emergence of wisdom teeth, or the third molars, typically occurs during the late teens to early twenties. Wisdom teeth that get stuck below the gums, only partially emerge, or grow in crooked can cause your teen pain that negatively impacts their college experience. They can become distracted from their coursework, experience disrupted sleep and excessive stress and anxiety, and be unable to attend social activities. By addressing wisdom teeth before your teen leaves for college, you’ll spare them this unnecessary stress so they can focus on their studies and better enjoy their college experience.

Reduce Their Risk of Oral Health Issues

Wisdom teeth often lack sufficient space to erupt properly. They can become impacted or run into adjacent teeth, increasing your teen’s risk of overcrowding, dental disease, infection, cysts, and tooth damage. Removing these teeth prevents potential oral health problems that may be difficult for your teen to address during their busy school schedule when they’re away from home.

More Comfortable Recovery

Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction requires time and proper care. Scheduling wisdom teeth removal when your child isn’t in school allows them to rest and recover in the comfort of your home without the added pressures of academic responsibilities. Parental support during your teen’s recovery period will not only help them feel more comfortable, you can also help reduce their risk of infection and complications.

Wisdom Teeth Removal at CarolinasDentist

If college is on the horizon for your teen, don’t overlook the significance of dealing with their wisdom teeth now. Spare your teen from the unnecessary pain and stress that can be associated with wisdom teeth! Contact us today to schedule a consultation at your nearest CarolinasDentist office.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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