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Wisdom Teeth Removal in Alexandria
If you need your wisdom teeth removed, you can count on our board-certified oral surgeons to provide the high-quality care you deserve.
Preserve your oral health
What is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in, usually appearing between the ages of 17-21. While not everyone will need to have them removed, they often become impacted, or trapped below the gumline, which can lead to a variety of oral health issues including overcrowding and even painful infections. If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain or discomfort, you will likely need to have them removed.
The benefits of wisdom teeth removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that offers multiple oral health benefits. The procedure not only alleviates pain, but it can also prevent future dental problems, including infections, decay, misalignment, and overcrowding. It can even improve bite and jaw alignment.
- Reduce overcrowding and risk of decay
- Prevent orthodontic issues
- Prevent pain, swelling, and infection
Alexandria Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Wisdom Tooth Extraction After Care
What’s the difference?
Types of wisdom teeth removal
Even if your wisdom teeth are not impacted, they can still cause oral health problems, and may need to be removed.
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Wisdom teeth removal
Standard wisdom teeth extractions follow a similar procedure to a normal extraction. After you are numbed and/or sedated, your doctor will gently loosen the tooth with special tools and carefully remove it.
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Impacted wisdom teeth removal
Because impacted wisdom teeth have not completed their eruption, the removal procedure is a bit more intricate. Once you’re numbed and/or sedated, your surgeon will create an opening in the gumline to expose the tooth. The tooth may then be readily removed as individual parts.
The wisdom teeth removal process
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, and generally only requires a short recovery time of a week or two. Here’s what to expect:
1
Pre-procedure evaluation
Before the surgery, your oral surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your dental and medical history, as well as take x-rays of your teeth and mouth to determine the positioning, size, and shape of your wisdom teeth. This evaluation will help the surgeon develop an appropriate treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs. Additionally, you will be given detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, such as fasting for a specific period of time prior to the surgery.
2
The surgery
Once you are comfortable, a precise incision is made and the tooth is carefully extracted. The area is cleaned and, if necessary, stitches will be used to close the incision.
3
Post-procedure recovery
After the surgery is complete, you will be closely monitored by the oral surgeon and dental staff until you are ready to be discharged. Most patients experience minor swelling, bleeding, and discomfort for the first few days after the surgery. Therefore, it is important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon such as avoiding strenuous activities, not smoking, keeping the surgical site clean, taking medications as prescribed, and eating only soft foods for a few days. It is important to attend any follow-up appointments with your oral surgeon to ensure a complete and safe recovery.