Wisdom Tooth Extractions - Fairfax, VA

When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Really Necessary?

It’s rare that a patient won’t need to have any wisdom teeth removed because the mouth is not typically large enough to accommodate them. If you begin to notice tooth pain in the back of your mouth and you are between the ages of 18 and 25, there’s a chance that your wisdom teeth are just beginning to erupt. Call our dental office and we’ll perform an exam. If we believe that your wisdom teeth are crowding your smile or putting you at risk for an oral infection, we will likely recommend removal.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction After-Care

Following your wisdom tooth removal, it’s very important that you take the right steps to promote healing and prevent a painful condition known as dry socket. Make sure to:

• Replace the provided gauze pad every few hours or when it becomes soaked to keep the wound clean.
• Avoid smoking at all costs.
• Avoid using straws for the next 24 to 48 hours after treatment.
• Do not vigorously rinse your mouth out with water.
• Do not touch the wound.
• Take prescription medications as recommended by our dental office.
• Keep your head elevated while lying down to promote healing.
• Apply cold ice packs to your face to reduce swelling.
• Practice routine oral care as usual while making sure to avoid the treated area.
• Stick to a soft diet for the next few days.
• Avoid strenuous activities for the next week.