Wisdom Teeth | Third Molars | Arlington VA | Gainesville VA

The average adult will have wisdom teeth by age 18.  Including wisdom teeth, there are 32 teeth, 16 on the top and 16 on the bottom. Each tooth has a particular role to play with its placement in one’s mouth.  As for wisdom teeth, they can be removed to prevent overcrowding and improve dental hygiene. The average mouth is made to hold 28 teeth, so when 28 is a company, 32 is a crowd!

When to Remove Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth removal is necessary when they are not growing in properly. Wisdom teeth may grow sideways and partially erupt from the gum. Impacted teeth can take many positions and find several ways to erupt at the expense of your comfort and oral health.

For these impacted teeth, poor positioning can cause several problems including decay, crowding of the other teeth, gum inflammation, periodontal disease, and infection. Any of these may result in swelling, stiffness, and pain.

Oral Examination

With an x-ray and intraoral examination, our surgeons can accurately evaluate the positioning of developing wisdom teeth and identify potential future problems. Studies have shown that early detection and evaluation result in better outcomes. Appropriate general anesthesia is usually administered to maximize your comfort. Our surgeons have the necessary experience and training to perform these procedures.

Removal

Most cases of wisdom teeth removal involve IV sedation or general anesthesia.  In some instances, the patient may choose to have local anesthesia or nitrous oxide (laughing gas), Once the wisdom teeth are extracted, the gums are sutured. After the surgery, you will be asked to bite down on the gauze placed in your mouth to provide necessary pressure to control bleeding.  You will then be under supervision from the office until you are ready to be released. You will receive a postoperative kit.  Unless needed, a post-op follow up is generally not required.