Wisdom Teeth removal in Alexandria

Do I need to get my wisdom teeth removed?

It is not mandatory to get your wisdom teeth removed, but according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 85% of wisdom teeth eventually have to be removed. Removing them when you are in your teens or twenties is a simpler procedure from which you will recover more easily and with less pain. If you do not have your wisdom teeth removed now, later complications may include:

• An impacted wisdom tooth
• Severe pain and swelling
• Damage to the nerves in the jawbone
• Infection or abscess
• Overcrowding
• Periodontal disease
• Damage to adjacent molars
• Damage to the sinus cavity
• Difficulty removing the tooth

 

How to Tell If a Wisdom Tooth is Impacted

An impacted wisdom tooth must come out as soon as possible to avoid complications and relieve pain. If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks and you are in your teens or older, it is imperative that you contact our office and schedule an appointment as soon as possible for an evaluation and potential removal of  your wisdom teeth:

• Severe toothache
• Gum puffiness or infection around the wisdom teeth
• Abscess or a tumor in the jawbone
• A pimple or bubble on the gum over the wisdom tooth
• Extreme cavities in the back molars
• Swelling or chronic pain in the cheeks, jaw, or around the eyes
• Chronic headaches or migraines
• Chronic bad breath, even after brushing
• Cracks in the adjacent teeth
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth

 

What to Expect When You Get Wisdom Teeth Removed

Before Surgery

Before removing your wisdom teeth, you cannot eat or drink anything (including water) for at least eight hours. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep. If you must take medication in the morning, do so with a tiny sip of water.

 

On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing with either short sleeves or sleeves that can be rolled up to accommodate an IV drip. Do not wear jewelry or makeup. Low-heeled shoes are best. Bring a responsible adult to your surgical appointment. They will need to drive you home after surgery.

 

Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Depending on your needs, we offer different types of anesthesia during the wisdom teeth removal process. These include local anesthesia (numbing the area), IV sedation (relaxing you), or general anesthesia (putting you to sleep). Each type is used to ensure a pain-free experience. The wisdom teeth are carefully removed. If they are impacted, a small incision may be made to access the tooth. Dissolvable stitches are placed, and gauze is applied to control bleeding.

 

After tooth removal, you can rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, you will receive post-operative instructions, a prescription for pain medication, antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment in two weeks for suture removal.

 

After Surgery

When your family member or friend takes you home, spend the first day resting in bed or on the couch. You will still be groggy for the first 24 hours following surgery. Follow your post-op instructions carefully and take all prescribed medications as directed. Ice packs can help reduce swelling. Rest, hydration, and a soft diet are crucial. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to relieve discomfort and minimize bacteria.

 

When can I go back to work after wisdom tooth removal?

Most patients take 2-3 days off to recover at home following wisdom tooth removal. This gives them time for the worst of the swelling to subside and the worst of the discomfort to resolve. During these first few days, you should sleep as much as possible with your head elevated.

 

Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery Timeline

• Days 1-2: Pain, swelling, difficulty eating
• Days 3-4: Pain and swelling lessen, some bruising begins
• Days 5-7: Stitches may fall out or be removed
• Weeks 1-2: Eating is comfortable, and you can add normal foods. The bruising should be fading.
• Weeks 2-4: Full recovery, and any tingling or numbness should be gone.

 

If you have symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth or are considering proactive removal, we encourage you to contact our office at Kenneth M. Van Stralen, DDS office Phone Number 703-317-3900 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Van Stralen. He can evaluate your wisdom teeth and advise you on the best course of action for your oral health.

 

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process at Dr. Van Stralen’s Office

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure designed to prevent pain, infection, and overcrowding. At Dr. Van Stralen’s office, we make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Step-by-Step Wisdom Teeth Removal process

Consultation & Evaluation – Dr. Van Stralen will examine your mouth and take digital X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and whether removal is necessary.

Anesthesia for Comfort – Depending on your needs, we offer local anesthesia (numbing the area), IV sedation (relaxing you), or general anesthesia (putting you to sleep) to ensure a pain-free experience.

Tooth Extraction – The wisdom teeth are carefully removed. If they are impacted, a small incision may be made to access the tooth.

Stitches & Gauze Placement – If needed, dissolvable stitches are placed, and gauze is applied to control bleeding.

Recovery & Aftercare – You’ll receive detailed post-op instructions to manage swelling and discomfort. Most patients recover within a few days to a week with proper care.

At Dr. Van Stralen’s office, we use advanced techniques for a quick, comfortable procedure and a smooth recovery. If you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain, schedule a consultation today!