Each year, approximately 5 million people undergo wisdom teeth extractions in the U.S., with about 85% of these procedures performed on teenagers and young adults. For many, this routine surgery is also their first exposure to opioids, as 70% of patients are prescribed opioids for postsurgical pain after a third-molar extraction.

While opioids can help manage pain, they are also associated with side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, and the potential for dependence. Research shows that early exposure to opioids can increase the risk of future misuse. In fact, young adults who take opioids after oral surgery are three times more likely to become long-term users, raising concerns about early exposure and its long-term consequences.

Understanding these risks, Dr. Mi

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