Wisdom teeth. They have a wise-sounding name, but they often bring more questions and discomfort than profound insight. These third molars, which typically emerge in our late teens or early twenties, are a normal part of dental development. However, for many people, their arrival can signal the beginning of pain, crowding, and other oral health issues. If you’ve been wondering about that aching sensation in the back of your jaw, you’re not alone.
At Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, our compassionate experts, Dr. James Geren and Dr. Zeyad Mady, frequently help patients in Alexandria, VA, understand the “why” behind their wisdom teeth troubles.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Our jaws have become smaller over thousands of years, meaning there often isn’t enough room for these late-blooming molars to grow in properly. This lack of space is the root cause of most wisdom tooth-related problems.
When a wisdom tooth doesn’t have a clear path to erupt, it can become impacted. This means it might grow in sideways, remain trapped beneath the gum line, or only partially emerge. An impacted wisdom tooth can lead to several complications, including:
- Pain and Swelling: This is the most common complaint, caused by the pressure of the tooth on surrounding nerves and bone.
- Infection: Partially erupted teeth can create a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria, leading to a painful infection called pericoronitis.
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth: An impacted tooth can push against the neighboring molar, causing damage, decay, or alignment issues.
- Cyst Formation: In some cases, a fluid-filled sac, or cyst, can form around an impacted wisdom tooth, which can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth.
When Is Removal the Right Choice?
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. If your wisdom teeth have grown in completely, are correctly positioned, and you can clean them effectively, they may not cause any issues.
However, Dr. Geren and Dr. Mady will likely recommend removal if you are experiencing pain, recurrent infections, or if X-rays show the teeth are impacted in a way that could cause future problems. Proactively removing problematic wisdom teeth can prevent more severe complications down the road.
Painless Wisdom Teeth Removal in Alexandria, VA
The thought of having a tooth pulled can be intimidating, but modern dentistry has made wisdom teeth removal a smooth and virtually painless experience. At Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and safety above all else.
We utilize advanced dental technology to ensure the procedure is precise and minimally invasive. Furthermore, we offer a range of sedation options to eliminate anxiety and discomfort. From local anesthetics to deeper sedation, our team will work with you to choose the best approach for your needs, ensuring you feel relaxed and at ease throughout your visit.
Don’t let wisdom tooth pain disrupt your life. The experienced and caring team at Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry is here to provide a solution. If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. James Geren or Dr. Zeyad Mady today. Let us help you find relief and protect your long-term oral health.
Contact Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry:
703-360-5881
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114
Alexandria, Virginia
22306
