Wisdom Teeth Removal in Burke, VA

A wisdom tooth is called impacted when it can’t fully erupt through the gums, usually because the jaw doesn’t have enough room or the tooth is growing at an angle. An impacted wisdom tooth may be completely hidden under the gums and bone or partially erupted, with a flap of gum tissue covering part of it. Our CBCT 3D scanner helps us see exactly where an impacted tooth sits before we plan treatment.

Partially erupted wisdom teeth are hard to keep clean, so food and bacteria can collect around them. Over time, this can lead to decay, gum irritation, or infection, and an angled tooth can press against the molar in front of it. Because these problems sometimes develop without obvious symptoms, we monitor wisdom teeth with X-rays during routine dental checkups.

Not everyone needs wisdom tooth extraction. Dr. Ashraghi recommends it when the teeth are causing problems or are likely to. Common signs include:

• Pain or pressure at the back of the jaw
• Red, swollen, or tender gums behind your last molars
• Food getting trapped around a partly erupted tooth
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste near the back teeth
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully
• Crowding or decay affecting nearby teeth

Sudden, severe pain or swelling in the back of your mouth should be seen quickly. Our emergency dentist team offers same-day appointments whenever possible.

Wisdom teeth are typically removed in one of two ways, simply or surgically, depending on how the tooth sits in the jaw. First, we use digital imaging to see the position of each tooth and its roots. Then we administer local anesthesia to keep you comfortable and pain-free, and sedation dentistry is available if you feel anxious.

• Erupted or partially erupted teeth: If needed, a small incision in the gums exposes more of the tooth. Specialized instruments, including an elevator and dental forceps, then gently detach the tooth from its socket.
• Impacted teeth: Dr. Ashraghi performs a more involved procedure, opening the gum tissue to reach the tooth and removing it in sections so that most of the surrounding bone remains untouched.
• Finishing up: Clean gauze is placed over the surgical sites, and you bite down gently to help blood clots form.

Before you leave, you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal successfully and swiftly.

Because wisdom teeth develop in the late teens and early twenties, many of our patients are high school and college students. Evaluating them early lets Dr. Ashraghi spot problems before they become painful and plan treatment around school breaks or work schedules. Families who have invested in clear aligners or other teeth straightening often want to discuss how wisdom teeth may affect their results.

Looking for wisdom teeth removal near me? Alpine Dental is at 9255 Old Keene Mill Rd, next to Rolling Valley West Park and under five minutes east of the Fairfax County Parkway. We see patients from Burke, West Springfield, Springfield, Fairfax Station, and Newington.

The cost of wisdom tooth extraction depends on how many teeth are removed, whether they are erupted or impacted, and whether you choose sedation. We review your images, give you an estimate before treatment, and check your benefits for you.

We welcome PPO dental insurance, are in-network with most PPO plans, and file your claims; see the insurance plans we accept. Without insurance, you can pay over time with Cherry financing or save with our No Strings Smile Plans.