Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Totowa, NJ
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. While they serve as an extra set of molars, more often than not they cause more problems than they are worth. At Dental Arts of Totowa, Dr. Zoya Mitelberg evaluates wisdom teeth and provides gentle removal when needed to protect the health and alignment of your smile in Totowa, NJ.
Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth
Most mouths simply don’t have enough room for a third set of molars. As a result, wisdom teeth can:
- Come in misaligned, tilted, or even horizontally, pushing against neighboring teeth
- Become impacted, staying trapped beneath the gums or jawbone
- Erupt only partially, creating a flap of gum where food and bacteria collect
- Lead to infection, swelling, and pain around the back of the jaw
- Damage nearby teeth, nerves, or the jawbone
- Contribute to crowding and decay that are difficult to clean
Why Early Removal Is Often Recommended
Because wisdom teeth are frequently harmful, many dentists recommend removing them before problems start. Surgery and recovery tend to be easier when patients are younger, because the roots are not fully formed and the surrounding bone is less dense. We use digital X-rays during routine exams to monitor how your wisdom teeth are developing and recommend the best time for removal.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before treatment, the area is thoroughly numbed to keep you comfortable. Depending on how the teeth are positioned, they may be removed whole or in sections. Complex impacted cases may be referred to an oral surgeon. Afterward, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly.
Recovery Tips
- Rest for the remainder of the day and keep your head elevated
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods and stay hydrated
- Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing to prevent dry socket
- Take medications as directed and call us if pain or swelling worsens
Learn more about routine tooth removal on our extractions page. If you have sudden pain or swelling, contact us for emergency dental care.
Wisdom Teeth FAQs
Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed?
No. Some people have enough room for healthy, properly aligned wisdom teeth. Dr. Mitelberg will evaluate yours with X-rays.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
An impacted wisdom tooth is trapped beneath the gums or bone and cannot fully erupt, which can lead to pain and infection.
What is the best age to remove wisdom teeth?
Removal is often easiest in the late teens or early twenties, before the roots are fully developed.
How long is recovery after wisdom tooth removal?
Most patients feel better within a few days, with complete healing over the next few weeks.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Choose soft foods like yogurt, soup, eggs, and mashed potatoes, and avoid crunchy or spicy foods at first.
What are signs my wisdom teeth are causing problems?
Pain or swelling at the back of the jaw, red or bleeding gums, bad breath, and difficulty opening your mouth are common signs.
Have Your Wisdom Teeth Evaluated
Find out if your wisdom teeth need attention. Call Dental Arts of Totowa at (973) 942-3233 or request an appointment online.