Distal Wedge in Washington, DC & Bethesda, MD
At District Dental Surgery, we provide advanced periodontal procedures to treat gum disease and chronic inflammation in hard-to-clean areas of the mouth. One of these procedures is the distal wedge, a minor periodontal surgery designed to improve gum health behind the back molars.
Our team, including Dr. Lucy Johnson, board-certified periodontist, performs distal wedge procedures with precision and a focus on long-term stability at our Washington, DC and Bethesda, Maryland offices.
What is a Distal Wedge?
Distal Wedge is a periodontal procedure used to remove extra gum tissue that forms behind your last molar, usually the second or third molars (wisdom teeth). This area is especially difficult to clean and is prone to plaque buildup, deep gum pockets, and chronic inflammation. The distal wedge procedure removes the excess tissue and reshapes the area to reduce pocket depth, eliminate infection, and promote healthier gum attachment.
Why You Might Need a Distal Wedge:
- Deep Gum Pockets Behind The Last Molar: This area is one of the hardest places to clean. When deep pockets form, bacteria collect and cause chronic inflammation or periodontal disease. A distal wedge reduces the tissue so those pockets disappear or become shallow enough to keep clean.
- Scar Tissue From Wisdom Tooth Removal: After wisdom teeth are extracted, the tissue behind the second molars doesn’t always heal smoothly. Some patients develop thick, fibrotic scar tissue that traps food, stays inflamed, or creates a bulky area that’s uncomfortable to brush. A distal wedge removes that scar tissue and restores a healthier, natural contour.
- Partially Erupted or Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Even if the wisdom tooth is gone now, years of irritation from a partially erupted tooth can leave behind excess gum tissue. A distal wedge helps reshape and clean up that area so it stops causing problems.
- Excess or Redundant Gum Tissue: Some people naturally have extra gum tissue behind their last molar, making the area hard to clean and prone to food trapping and irritation. Removing this tissue improves hygiene and comfort.
- Before Restorative or Orthodontic Treatment: If a crown, bridge, or orthodontic work needs to be done on the back molars, a distal wedge can create proper access and ensure the gum tissue is stable and healthy.
- To Create a More Stable Gum Line: Loose, inflamed, or bulky tissue behind the molars can keep causing problems if left alone. A distal wedge reshapes the gums into a tighter, healthier form, supporting long-term stability.
How the Distal Wedge Procedure Works:
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which means the area will be completely numb. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, and most patients report little to no discomfort throughout. We also offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and oral anxiolytics if you’re feeling anxious or prefer a more relaxed experience.
We gently remove the extra gum tissue behind the tooth and reshape the area. Any underlying inflammation is cleared out, and the difficult-to-access tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned. If needed, the bone surface may be smoothed. The gums are positioned to create a healthier, more manageable shape and then sutured. Sutures typically dissolve or are removed in 1–2 weeks.
What's the Recovery for Distal Wedge?
Recovery from a distal wedge procedure is typically mild with minimal discomfort. You may experience slight bleeding during the first day, and then mild swelling or tenderness.
Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Sutures may dissolve on their own or be removed at a short follow-up visit. We provide clear post-operative instructions and monitor healing closely to ensure long-term success.
Benefits of a Distal Wedge:
A distal wedge can help:
Reduce deep periodontal pockets
Improve gum health behind the back molars
Make brushing and flossing easier
Reduce chronic irritation and inflammation
Lower the risk of future infection or bone loss
Support long-term periodontal stability
Why Choose District Dental Surgery?
Specialized periodontal care — Our team focuses on advanced gum and bone treatments
Dual locations — Serving Washington, DC and Bethesda, MD
Experienced clinicians — Decades of combined experience in periodontal surgery
Patient-centered care — Your comfort, understanding, and outcomes matter
State-of-the-art facility & technology — For precise, gentle, predictable results
We treat each patient individually, taking into account their oral health, medical status, and goals. If you’ve been told you have advanced gum disease, or your gum therapy hasn’t fully resolved deep pockets, osseous surgery might be the solution to restore stability.
Contact us today for a consultation at our Washington, DC or Bethesda, MD offices.
Meet The Doctors
Our team, led by highly skilled and experienced periodontists, is dedicated to providing world class periodontal care with precision, innovation, and compassion. With years of experience and a passion for helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles, our doctors ensure every patient receives personalized treatment in a comfortable and modern environment.
