While you may think that wisdom teeth are only a concern for teenagers, many adults also struggle with discomfort and crowding due to late-emerging wisdom teeth. Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery offers wisdom teeth removal in Fairfax, VA, for both teens and adults. Learn more about the complete wisdom teeth removal process here.
Why Do I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth often need to come out when they cause discomfort or put pressure on the surrounding teeth. While your wisdom teeth may feel fine now, over time, they can shift, eventually pressing into the adjacent molars.
Another concern is gum disease or infection. Wisdom teeth that have partially emerged allow bacteria to enter the gums, increasing your risk of infection.
The Initial Consultation & Preparing for Surgery
Before your wisdom teeth removal, you will consult with Dr. Gocke or Dr. McAdams. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your teeth and take any necessary X-ray images of your mouth. We will discuss the procedure and address any questions or concerns you may have before scheduling your surgery.
If you are undergoing wisdom teeth removal with local or nitrous sedation, it is recommended to fast for at least six hours before the procedure. To prepare for surgery under IV sedation, you must avoid eating for at least 12 hours before your appointment, as a safety precaution. Please also ensure someone is available to drive you home after surgery.
The Day of Wisdom Teeth Removal
We perform most wisdom teeth removals in our office, but if you have unique considerations, we may complete your procedure in our ambulatory surgical center at McLean Children’s Hospital.
Before your procedure starts, you can relax and get comfortable while watching a show of your choice. We will monitor your vitals to ensure you are stable and safe throughout your treatment.
Your procedure will begin with the administration of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which helps you feel more relaxed. Almost all our patients receive IV sedation for wisdom teeth removal, which keeps you completely comfortable during surgery.
Next, we will inject a local anesthetic into the area surrounding each wisdom tooth. Dr. Gocke, or Dr. McAdams will then extract your wisdom teeth and administer EXPAREL® into the gums. This medication will begin working soon after to minimize any discomfort upon waking up from the procedure.
Exparel is a long-lasting, non-opioid medication that is commonly administered during wisdom teeth surgery to reduce the need for stronger painkillers post-operation. As an injectable medication, Exparel has a unique extended-release formula that slowly releases pain-relieving medication over time, providing patients with effective and long-lasting pain relief without the need for frequent dosing. Exparel has been proven to be highly effective in managing post-operative pain while reducing the need for opioid painkillers, which can have significant side effects and risks. Its use has become increasingly popular as it helps patients manage pain in a safer and more effective way.
The Recovery Process
When we have completed your wisdom teeth removal, we will move you to a private recovery room while you wake up completely. To minimize swelling or bruising, you will have moldable ice packs on your cheeks. These need to be switched out every 30 to 40 minutes for the first day following treatment.
Once you are alert and awake, we will review your aftercare instructions. One week after surgery, you can expect a post-op phone call from our team to check on your status and recovery.
You will need to change your gauze every 30 minutes for the first few hours after you return home. If you need relief from discomfort, you can take ibuprofen every six hours. During this recovery time, you should only eat soft foods and liquids for the first day after surgery.
When you fully recover from your wisdom teeth removal, you should expect a normal, healthy smile. If you have wisdom teeth removal later in life, your recovery may be slightly longer, but you can expect a resolution in symptoms related to your wisdom teeth.
The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal has various oral health benefits, including decreased gum disease and decay risk. When your teeth are misaligned, or wisdom teeth have partially emerged, bacteria can enter the gums and cause decay. You can avoid this scenario by removing your wisdom teeth.
Another benefit of wisdom teeth removal is less damage to the surrounding teeth. When a wisdom tooth is misaligned or impacted, it can pressure the adjacent teeth, and removing your wisdom teeth can prevent this from happening.
Wisdom teeth removal also lowers your risk of developing oral cysts. These cysts can form near the base of an impacted wisdom tooth and fill with fluid, causing discomfort and crowding.
Why You Should Visit Dr. Gocke and Dr. McAdams for Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery, Dr. Gocke and Dr. McAdams all perform wisdom teeth removal. Our team of surgeons is committed to providing every patient with the utmost care, compassion, and quality service. The team at our Fairfax office works together to assess your dental concerns and provide the best possible treatment to meet your needs.
Wisdom teeth removal at Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery can resolve the discomfort caused by your impacted teeth. This procedure can also address overcrowding in the mouth, helping you achieve a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation
If you struggle with discomfort due to impacted wisdom teeth, schedule a consultation at Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery. We offer wisdom teeth removal in Fairfax, VA, along with other oral surgery procedures. Contact us at (703) 388-2805 or schedule a consultation online today.
