Wisdom Tooth removal
Northern Virginia Oral Surgery
Oral Examination for Extraction of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom Teeth Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of wisdom teeth, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to wisdom teeth are discussed.
With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Bonacci can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our doctors are trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.
Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to fully erupt, a number of problems can happen. Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until the early twenties. Problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 30. Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:
Infection:
The most frequent clinical problem we see is pericoronitis, (a localized gum infection). Without enough room for total eruption, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and infected, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling, and problems with chewing and/or swallowing.
Cyst Formation:
Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jaw bone that develop as a result of impacted teeth and slowly expand destroying adjacent jaw bone and occasionally teeth. They can be very difficult to treat if your wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.
Possible Crowding:
Impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of your teeth. This is most noticeable with the front teeth, primarily the lower front teeth and is most commonly seen after a patient has had braces. There are a number of factors that cause teeth to crowd after braces or in early adulthood. Retained, impacted wisdom teeth may be a contributing factor. Unless you have an active problem when you see the oral surgeon, the reason for removal is primarily to prevent long-term damage to your teeth, gums and jaw bone.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth:
If there is inadequate room to clean around the wisdom tooth, the tooth directly in front, the second molar, can be adversely affected resulting in gum disease, bone loss around the tooth, and/or decay.
What if I don’t have my wisdom teeth removed as a teenager or young adult?
Removing impacted wisdom teeth later in life (30s, 40s, or beyond) may result in:
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A longer and more difficult recovery
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Higher risk of complications
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Slower healing time
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Increased risk of infection
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More complex and less predictable treatment of any complications
In general, early removal (teenage years to early twenties) is recommended because:
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Healing is faster and more predictable
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There are typically fewer complications
As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate.
What Is An Impacted wisdom Tooth?
Although most people develop and grow 32 permanent adult teeth, many times their jaws are too small to accommodate the four wisdom teeth. When inadequate space prevents the teeth from erupting they are called impacted. This indicates their inability to erupt into the proper position for chewing and cleaning.
What to Expect for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
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Most patients choose to be asleep or deeply relaxed during wisdom tooth removal. We’ll go over your anesthesia options at your consultation.
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Your procedure will be done in our office with modern monitoring and safety protocols, handled by a skilled, licensed surgical team.
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The surgery takes 30–60 minutes, and you’ll likely be here for about 90 minutes total.
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A responsible adult must bring you to the appointment and stay with you afterward.
Preparing for Surgery
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Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before your appointment (unless instructed otherwise for medications).
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Failing to follow this guideline may require your procedure to be rescheduled.
After Surgery
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You’ll be given medications to help with pain and swelling.
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Most patients are sleepy for much of the day, so plan to rest at home after your visit.
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We use IV sedation and local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during and after the procedure.
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Our practice uses advanced technology and sterilization techniques to ensure safe, efficient care and faster healing.
The Day of Treatment
Be sure to have an adult with you at the time of removal. Make plans to have a parent or responsible adult stay with you for the rest of the day, following wisdom tooth removal.
Aftercare & Recovery Tips
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Stitches may be placed and typically dissolve on their own in 3–5 days — no need to return for removal.
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It’s normal to feel gum swelling or a pulling sensation — this will subside within a few days.
Managing Pain
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Start with ibuprofen (Advil®) or another non-narcotic pain reliever first.
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If needed, follow up with your prescribed pain medication.
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Numbness from local anesthesia may last into the next day — this is normal and not a sign of nerve injury.
Eating After Surgery
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Begin with clear liquids (like broth or Jell-O), then slowly transition to soft foods.
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Avoid dairy products (milk, yogurt, ice cream) on the day of surgery — they may cause nausea with anesthesia or medication.
Medication Warning
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If you’re prescribed antibiotics and take birth control pills, be aware: your birth control may be less effective.
Wisdom tooth extraction faqs
What does wisdom tooth removal cost and is it covered by insurance?
The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. During your consultation appointment, the surgeon will need to review your x-rays, complete an examination and determine the best option for anesthesia, before an accurate estimate can be provided. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. The oral surgeon’s office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.
What if I have questions before surgery?
At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Christopher E. Bonacci, DDS, MD, PC Office Phone Number 703-255-9400 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.
More wisdom tooth removal faqs…
What are the signs that I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Common signs include pain at the back of the mouth, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, bad breath, or recurring infections in the gums around the wisdom teeth.
How long does recovery take after wisdom tooth removal?
Initial healing usually takes about 3–5 days, with full recovery in about 1–2 weeks. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
What are dry sockets, and how can I prevent them?
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing the bone. Avoid using straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing in the first 48 hours to reduce the risk.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not always. If they come in properly aligned, fully erupt, and don’t cause problems, they may not need to be removed. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate their position with X-rays.
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
If you receive sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home. If only local anesthesia is used, you may be able to drive—check with your oral surgeon.
The Day of Treatment
Please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications.
