If you are in your late teens or early twenties and still have your wisdom teeth, it may be prudent to have them evaluated before they begin causing concerns. If your wisdom teeth are already causing discomfort or other symptoms, it may be time to schedule an appointment for wisdom teeth removal.
Wisdom teeth removal is incredibly common and considered by many to be a rite of passage. Through this safe and simple procedure, your oral surgeon can help you avoid complications down the road. Virginia Oral, Facial, & Implant Surgery provides wisdom teeth removal for patients throughout the Arlington, VA community.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Over the course of a lifetime, the average person develops 32 permanent teeth. The last four to erupt are the wisdom teeth. These teeth typically develop sometime between ages 17 and 21, though for some patients, the wisdom teeth may emerge as young as 11.
For many patients, the jaw is simply not large enough to accommodate this final set of molars. As a result, these teeth can become impacted. This means they do not erupt through the gums but instead remain partially or completely trapped in the gum tissue or bone, leading to a host of concerns.
Waiting until later in life to have the wisdom teeth removed may make the procedure more difficult, which is why we often recommend having the wisdom teeth extracted as early as possible.
Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth removal is a great way to preserve a healthy smile, and avoid the risk of more serious dental concerns later in life. When left untreated, wisdom teeth may result in concerns such as crowding, misalignment of the other teeth, and increased risk of dental infection. We recommend having the wisdom teeth removed to avoid the following symptoms:
- Discomfort and sensitivity around the impacted teeth
- Infection in and around the gums
- Misalignment of teeth after orthodontia (braces or Invisalign®)
- Damage to adjacent teeth
- Cysts around the jawbone
How Wisdom Teeth Removal Works
Your wisdom teeth removal experience will begin with a consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Gocke will explain the process in greater detail, providing information about safety and comfort throughout the surgery. He will also answer any questions you have about wisdom teeth removal.
Additionally, Dr. Gocke will perform a physical examination of your teeth and gums, ensuring you are a good candidate for a safe and successful wisdom teeth removal procedure. Finally, he will discuss your options for sedation and anesthesia. Our practice is committed to patient comfort, and we will always offer various options for mitigating pain.
The specific method of wisdom teeth removal will depend on several factors. These factors include the number of wisdom teeth you need to have removed, the position of the teeth, and whether those teeth are impacted.
Wisdom teeth removal is performed on an outpatient basis, and once your procedure is completed, you will be sent home with a full list of post-operative instructions. We will also take plenty of time to review these instructions with you before you head home. Following these instructions is critical for a smooth and speedy recovery.
It is not unusual to experience some discomfort following your wisdom teeth removal. Most patients can manage this discomfort using over-the-counter medications, including ibuprofen and Tylenol. Prescription medications are also available for patients who need them. You can expect some swelling for the first 24-48 hours. This swelling will subside on its own, and after a couple of days, you should be progressing in your recovery.
You are in Good Hands with Dr. Gocke
Dr. Gocke is an experienced oral surgeon who has helped countless patients with wisdom teeth removal. To learn more about having your wisdom teeth removed in Arlington, VA, we welcome you to contact our office at (703) 388-2805.
