Extractions & Impacted Teeth
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Falls Church, VA
Wisdom teeth removal in Falls Church, VA is one of the most common reasons patients visit Merrifield Oral Surgery, often after a referral from their general dentist. We welcome new patients of every age, from teens facing oral surgery for the first time to parents helping their kids through the process, and our care team includes a Spanish-speaking surgeon for patients who feel more at ease communicating in Spanish. Our board-certified surgeons take time to explain each step so nothing about your visit feels rushed or confusing.
Call (703) 639-0027What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal, and Who Needs It?
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to come in, usually between ages 17 and 25. For many people, there simply isn't enough room in the jaw for these teeth to grow in straight. When a wisdom tooth gets stuck against another tooth or bone, it's called impacted, and impacted wisdom teeth removal is one of the main reasons general dentists refer patients to an oral surgeon.
You may need wisdom teeth removed if your dentist sees them growing in at an angle, coming in only partway, crowding your other teeth, or trapping food and bacteria under the gum. Some patients feel pain, swelling, or pressure. Others have no symptoms at all, but X-rays show a problem developing under the surface. This is different from a routine tooth extraction, since wisdom teeth are more likely to be impacted and need a surgical approach. You can read more about our Tooth Extractions services if you're dealing with a different tooth.
Benefits of Treating Impacted Wisdom Teeth Early
Removing problem wisdom teeth while a patient is young and healthy tends to make the whole process smoother. Benefits include:
- Less crowding and shifting of nearby teeth
- Lower risk of infection, cysts, or gum problems around the impacted tooth
- Easier healing, since younger patients often recover faster and tooth roots aren't fully formed yet
- Fewer surgical complications, since bone tends to be softer in teens and young adults
- Peace of mind for patients and parents, since problems get handled before they cause pain
Waiting doesn't always lead to trouble, but for many patients, treating impacted teeth early helps avoid a more complicated surgery down the road.
What to Expect: Consultation, IV Sedation & Surgery Day
Your visit starts with a consultation. One of our board-certified oral surgeons will review your X-rays, examine your mouth, and talk with you about whether your wisdom teeth need to come out and when. We answer every question from patients and parents, and we never rush this conversation, especially for patients who are nervous about their first surgical visit.
On surgery day, a calm and familiar team greets you. We walk through what will happen, confirm your sedation plan, and make sure you feel settled before we begin.
Comfort Options and IV Sedation for a Calm Experience
Many patients choose IV sedation wisdom teeth removal because it lets them relax through the whole procedure and remember very little afterward. Our surgeons are trained to give IV sedation safely, and your vital signs are watched closely the entire time. We also offer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide for patients who prefer a lighter option. Whichever comfort choice fits you best, our goal is to keep you feeling calm and cared for from start to finish.
What Happens If Impacted Wisdom Teeth Are Left Untreated
Left alone, an impacted wisdom tooth can push against neighboring teeth, add to crowding, or lead to infection and gum swelling around the area. Cysts can also form around an impacted tooth over time. We treat other kinds of impacted teeth too, including cases that need Impacted Canine Exposure instead of removal. Your surgeon will help you understand what's happening in your case and what treatment fits best.
Recovery and Post-Op Support After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most patients rest at home for a few days after surgery, with swelling and mild discomfort peaking around day two or three before it starts to ease. We send every patient home with clear, written instructions, and our team calls to check on you after your procedure. We want to know how you're feeling and answer any questions once you're home. You can also review our Post-Op Instructions anytime for guidance on eating, resting, and caring for the surgical site.
Cost is often on patients' minds too, especially for families weighing options in Fairfax against a closer Falls Church appointment. Our staff can walk you through your coverage and payment options, and our Insurance & Financing page has more detail on how we support patients through the process.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal
How do I know if my wisdom teeth are impacted?
Your general dentist usually spots impacted wisdom teeth on a routine X-ray, sometimes before you have any symptoms. Signs can include pain, swelling, or pressure near the back of your jaw, though many impacted teeth cause no symptoms at all. A consultation with our surgical team can confirm what's happening and whether removal makes sense for you.
Is IV sedation safe for wisdom teeth removal?
Yes. IV sedation is administered by our board-certified oral surgeons, who monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure. It's a well-established comfort option for wisdom teeth removal, and we review your health history beforehand to make sure it's a good fit for you.
How long is recovery after wisdom teeth removal?
Most patients feel noticeably better within three to five days, though full healing of the gum tissue can take a couple of weeks. Following your post-op instructions closely, including rest and a soft-food diet, helps keep recovery on track.
