Wisdom Teeth Removal in NJ

You’ve just been told by your dentist that you or your child need to have your wisdom teeth extracted. Now what? If you’re searching for the safest, least painful way to remove your or your child’s wisdom teeth in NJ — you’re in the right place. As the only practice in Bergen County with dual degree, Board Certified oral surgeons, our team is extensively trained in both dentistry and medicine, making our doctors the best oral surgeons for wisdom teeth removal. We will ensure a worry-free experience for you and your child.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, commonly known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in your mouth—usually appearing during late teens or early adulthood. Due to limited space in the jaw, these extra molars frequently struggle to fully erupt. When wisdom teeth become impacted, meaning they don’t come in properly, they can lead to discomfort and a range of dental issues if left untreated.

What Can Happen if You Don’t Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?

Most adults develop 32 teeth, but the human mouth typically only has space for 28. When wisdom teeth emerge—usually between ages 17-25—this space shortage creates significant oral health risks that often require professional intervention.

If left unaddressed, you will most likely experience pain in your jaw and gums, and face the following:

  • Recurrent infections
  • Damage to your neighboring teeth
  • Bone and Gum Disease
  • Tumors

In rare cases, patients may have their wisdom teeth healthfully emerge upright and avoid complications of impaction or crowding. However, their location at the very back of the mouth make these teeth incredibly difficult to clean and maintain so risks of future infection, decay and gum disease remain present. For this reason, our board-certified team at Bergen Oral Surgery recommends you remove your wisdom teeth sooner rather than later.

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

While not all wisdom teeth require removal, many do—especially if they’re impacted or there isn’t enough space for them to grow properly. So, how do you know if it’s time to take them out?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need your wisdom teeth removed:

  • Soreness or swelling behind your back molars
  • Your back molar gums become red, inflamed, or tender to the touch
  • Jaw tightness, pain when chewing, or headaches
  • A bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
  • Shifting teeth or new crowding in your smile
  • Repeat infections such as pericoronitis or tooth decay in the back of your mouth

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term oral health issues—including infection, bone loss, and damage to neighboring teeth. If you have questions or concerns, our team of surgeons are here for you. We welcome you to make an appointment for a consultation at any of our four Oral Surgery offices in North Jersey: Franklin Lakes, Hackensack, Ridgewood, or Westwood.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Surgery Overview

Commitment to Your Safety

Our board-certified oral surgeons use advanced technology to thoroughly assess your individual case before surgery, to identify potential risk factors and plan the safest approach for your specific situation. During your consultation, we’ll review your imaging together, address your specific concerns, and create a treatment plan designed around your unique needs and comfort level. At Bergen, we know that every smile is different, let’s talk about yours.

Wisdom Tooth Removal: What to Expect

Prior to Surgery

Exam and Imaging

Your wisdom tooth removal journey begins weeks before your actual surgery date. During your initial consultation, our board-certified, dual degree surgeons will conduct a thorough oral exam utilizing cutting-edge 3D imaging technology to capture a detailed view of your wisdom teeth.

This advanced imaging technology allows us to:

  • Visualize tooth positioning and root structure
  • Identify potential complications before they arise
  • Plan the safest and most efficient surgical approach
  • Determine the optimal anesthesia option for your specific case

Anesthesia Overview and Selection

The number one question all patients ask about wisdom tooth removal is, “Is it painful?” Choosing the right anesthesia for wisdom teeth removal is a big part of making your surgery comfortable and stress-free. To make your wisdom tooth removal as stress-free as possible, we’ll provide you with information on four anesthesia options to choose from.

Local Anesthesia: This option entails injecting lidocaine into the gums to numb the surgical area and is commonly used in oral surgeries such as root canals or cavity fillings.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Perfect for patients who prefer to remain conscious while during surgery. This option entails administering gas through the nose and mouth of the patient. This safe inhaled sedative works fast and is known to create a relaxed, euphoric feeling that helps ease the nerves.

Moderate to Deep IV Sedation: Out of all the anesthesia options, this tends to be the most common choice for wisdom tooth removal. With varying levels of sedation, this option works quickly to ensure each patient gets just enough sedative to help them reach an optimal state of relaxation.

General Anesthesia: With general anesthesia, patients are asleep throughout the entire procedure. It is usually recommended in cases where the extraction is expected to be complex, or if the patient is extremely anxious prior to surgery.

After we review these options together, we will help you determine which level of sedation is right for you.

At Bergen Oral Surgery, your safety and comfort is our highest priority. If you have concerns about undergoing anesthesia or the effects it may produce, rest assured that you’re in experienced hands.

  • Our oral surgeons are highly qualified to administer all levels of sedation, thanks to extensive residency training in sedation, current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications, and strict adherence to safety protocols during all procedures.
  • We are the only dual-degree surgical team in Bergen County, we’re not just experts in oral surgery. Many of our surgeons are also medical doctors. This additional education positions us to handle the most complex wisdom tooth extraction cases safely and efficiently.
  • All four of our North Jersey offices are equipped with hospital-grade monitoring equipment to track vital signs throughout the procedure.
  • Our team of surgeons are affiliated with the most prestigious hospitals in NJ and NY including New York Presbyterian Hospital, Mount Sinai Medical Center (NY), Columbia University Medical Center (NY), Elmhurst Trauma Center (NY), and Hackensack University Medical Center (NJ).

Pre Operative Instructions

Once the different types of sedation have been discussed and chosen, our team will give you detailed pre-operative instructions. This may include fasting requirements, medication adjustments, and transportation arrangements to ensure your safety and comfort.

Day of Surgery

Arrival and Pre-Operative Preparation

When you arrive at Bergen Oral Surgery on your procedure day, our welcoming and friendly team will guide you through a streamlined check-in process. We’ll review your medical history, confirm your anesthesia selection, and answer any last-minute questions to ensure you feel completely comfortable and informed.

Next, we’ll begin preparing for your procedure. Our surgical team will:

  • Review your 3D imaging and surgical plan one final time
  • Begin monitoring your vital signs
  • Start an IV line if you’ve chosen IV sedation
  • Encourage you to relax! You are in good hands and everything will be fine!

Your chosen anesthesia will be administered by our skilled team to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure. Whether you’ve selected local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation, we’ll monitor your comfort level continuously and adjust as needed.

Once you’re fully comfortable and numb, one of our oral surgeons will begin the extraction process. Using advanced surgical techniques and specialized instruments, the procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on the complexity of your case. Throughout the surgery, our team maintains a state of constant communication and monitoring to ensure your safety and comfort.

Recovery From Wisdom Tooth Removal

Recovery is usually rapid with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days following the procedure. Should any serious complications arise, our dedicated team is here seven days a week to ensure you receive immediate care whenever necessary. For emergency care, feel free to contact us by phone or visit any one of our four North New Jersey locations.

What to Avoid Immediately After Surgery

To prevent complications and support healing, please avoid the following:

  • Don’t spit, suck through a straw, or smoke the week following surgery
  • Don’t eat crunchy or spicy foods for 2 weeks following surgery (avoid nuts, granola, popcorn, or chips, etc)
  • Don’t touch wounds or sutures (with tongue, fingers, or utensils) as much as possible

Recovery Timeline

Immediately After Surgery

  • Rest as much as possible: Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.
  • Apply an ice pack to your check: Keep for 20 minutes on, then 20 min off — repeat as needed for the first 36 hours.
  • Eat soft, cold foods 6 hours post surgery: A few foods you can try are: yogurt, applesauce, smoothies (with no straw), pudding, or ice cream.
  • Do NOT rinse, spit, or brush your teeth: Avoid rinsing, spitting and brushing until 24 hours have passed.
  • Bite gently on gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding. Use a moistened tea bag if bleeding persists.

2–3 Days After Surgery

  • Expect swelling to peak during this time: It’s normal and will go down in 2-3 days.
  • Continue using cold compresses: especially if swelling increases.
  • Continue gentle salt water rinses: Rinse 4-5 times throughout the day, (Make by mixing 1 tbsp of salt in 1 cup warm. water) after every meal and before bed.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink lots of fluids — avoid caffeine, alcohol, and hot drinks.
  • Continue eating soft foods only: This can include: mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies (with no straw) and lukewarm soups

4–5 Days After Surgery

  • Applying heat: If pain and facial swelling continues to persist after day 4, you can begin applying moist heat to reduce swelling

1–2 Weeks After Surgery

  • Your energy should return to normal at the 1-2 weeks period, but overexertion can still trigger discomfort.
  • Swelling should significantly reduce or be completely gone at this point.
  • Mild soreness or tightness in the jaw may still be present — especially when chewing or speaking.
  • Sutures (if placed) may be removed by your provider during this timeframe — this is a quick and painless process.

Wisdom Tooth Recovery Best Practices

Recovery Steps Best Practice
Brushing Teeth Begin brushing gently after 24 hours, but avoid the extraction site to prevent irritation or infection.
Managing Bleeding If bleeding persists, bite down on gauze for 20 minutes until your bleeding stops. If bleeding continues, use damp tea bags as a substitute for gauze.
Salt Rinses Perform saltwater rinses at least 4–5 times a day: before meals, and before bed. This helps reduce the chance of infection and promotes long-term healing.
Pain Management Begin taking pain medication as soon as the local anesthetic wears off. For moderate pain you can take:

Tylenol, Advil or Motrin (1–2 tablets) every 3–4 hours
– Alternatively, you can take 200 mg of Ibuprofen (2–3 tablets) every 3–4 hours

Important: Do not take these medications if you are allergic or if your doctor has advised against them.

Hydration Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and support your healing process.
Posture for Swelling Reduction Elevate your head when resting or sleeping to minimize swelling.

What Our Patients Have To Say

Patient Review By Jacqueline Wong

My daughter had all 4 of her impacted wisdom teeth out recently and it was a very successful surgery. Dr. Chang Han is the BEST!!! From our first meeting at her consult to the post op surgery follow up he was excellent. He had a wonderful demeanor, knows how to connect with teenagers, and excellent follow up. I highly recommend Bergen Oral M. Surgery for your needs.

- Jacqueline Wong

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By ChristineScaglione

My son had a great experience at Bergen oral Maxillofacial surgery! He was seen by Dr Diaz at the Franklin Lakes office. He had all four wisdom teeth extracted. I was so happy to learn that they are using patient’s own Platelet Rich Fibrin (Plasma) to pack into the sockets to promote healing. Everything was so well explained by the physician at the consult and then by the nurse, Dawn on the day of the procedure. All of the office staff we encountered were kind and professional. The written follow up instructions were excellent for the patient and caregiver to refer to. The patient also has website access to the post procedure care video that is viewed in the office before they are discharged. We appreciate the skill level and excellent care my son received at Bergen Oral.

- ChristineScaglione

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Kathleen R

The professionalism displayed by the staff and doctor deserve more than a 5 star review.Dr.Diaz was amazing from the start .He took his time to answer all my questions and the procedure itself was seamless. I highly recommend this practice in the event of the need to have oral surgery .

- Kathleen R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Sharon Hanna

I had excellent care from Dr. Feuerstein and the staff at BOMS - Franklin Lakes on 6/30/25. They were very professional, and made me feel at ease. I had very little pain and minimal swelling after 4 wisdom teeth extractions. Dr. Feuerstein went above and beyond checking in on me the night after my surgery. I would highly recommend BOMS to all my family and friends! I will definitely be using them for any future oral surgeries! Thank you!

- Sharon Hanna

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By H OB

I had an excellent experience with my oral surgery at this practice. From the consultation to the follow-up text messages everything was handled with professionalism and care. Dr Feuerstein was incredibly skilled and made sure I felt informed and comfortable every step of the way. The procedure went smoothly, and my recovery is going well. His assistant, Alison was kind, reassuring, and always available to answer questions. I highly recommend them if you need any oral surgery done—you’ll be in great hands!

- H OB

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Jeff Krautman

"Yesterday I had an impacted wisdom tooth extracted by Dr. Diaz. Prior to having this procedure done I was greeted by the friendly Office staff and subsequently met Emily who is the Dental Assistant for Dr Diaz. She was friendly, professional and helped reduce my anxiety and stress as I was very stressed about this difficult extraction. Words alone cannot express my thanks and gratitude for Dr Diaz. He immediately put me at ease and his confidence and explanations throughout this most difficult procedure.helped me relax and stay still. Dr Diaz had soft music playing the entire time and I marveled that he quietly sang along which was not only unique but calmed me beyond words.His confidence and expertise exuded the room the entire time! I cannot tell you how difficult this extraction was and it took him less than 30 minutes much to my surprise! Over the last fifty years I have seen many Oral Surgeons but Dr Diaz is without a doubt the best ! It's been 24 hours after my Surgery and I feel 100% better following their after surgery protocol. I only took a total of 2 extra strength Tylenol and that's it! No soreness the following day and for that I am forever grateful. Thanks to Dr Diaz and the entire staff at Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery!"

- Jeff Krautman

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Steven Moses

I had three Wisdom Teeth pulled by Dr Han. The experience was totally great. No pain during or after. No bleeding and no swelling either! I never imagined that it would be this painless! Highly recommended!

- Steven Moses

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By JoAnn Zeralli

Dr Feuerstein made my experience so great. He is kind and explained what he had to do before and during the implant. He is so skilled in his care ,I have total trust in him. His assistant was so kind and considerate of me before, during and after the procedure. It was a beautiful experience,as always. Everyone in the office is genuinely nice , professional and calming. There are no words to describe how much I like the care I received.

- JoAnn Zeralli

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Colleen O'Meara

Dr. Han is the best! Amazing bedside manner with my teens and both had great outcomes with their wisdom teeth removal. Highly recommend Bergen Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

- Colleen O'Meara

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Catherine Santulli

Dr. Diaz was great!! My son had very little pain and swelling after the removal of all four wisdom teeth. Dr. Diaz even called the evening of the surgery to check-in and see how my son was doing.

- Catherine Santulli

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Brenda Weiss

"Two teens had wisdom teeth removed by Dr Novelli and his team. He is patient and kind. Nursing staff is fantastic. Very kind to my very very nervous daughter. The Hackensack office is better set up for surgery than Ridgewood. If you have a choice for surgery location go to Westwood or Hackensack.

- Brenda Weiss

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Josette Lucido Balestrieri

"As a parent, taking my nine-year-old child to an oral surgeon was an incredibly frightening experience. However, Dr. Mina Boulos and his team at Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery immediately put us at ease. They took such wonderful care of my son and made him feel completely comfortable throughout the entire visit. When I found out he needed an IV, I was honestly terrified — but the team handled it with such professionalism and compassion that it eased my fears. We walked in as strangers and left feeling like family. To any parent who may be anxious about their child’s oral surgery, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Boulos and his team. The care and experience our son received were exceptional. In fact, my husband and I have decided to use Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery for any of our future needs as well. We truly recommend this practice to all families looking for expert care delivered with kindness and heart.

- Josette Lucido Balestrieri

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Brianna Bascietto

Honestly, we always hear horror stories and see funny videos of people getting their wisdom teeth removed but even at 30 years old I couldn’t imagine having a better experience. Dr. Park truly made my procedure painless, anxiety free and easy. I went in, we talked for a few minutes (his kindness and bedside manor along with his gentle personality immediately made me feel at ease) they drew blood (painless) and then I was asleep. It literally felt like ten minutes and then I woke up and went to the recovery room where I snuggled up in a blanket until I was ready to go. I’ve never had a more pleasant dental visit let alone one that ended in an extraction! Two days post op and I have minimal swelling and absolutely no bruising. Safe to say if I ever need bother tooth pulled I won’t be seeing anyone other than Dr. Park. I can’t thank him and his team enough for doing such and extraordinary job !

- Brianna Bascietto

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Carol Lehman

Dr Diaz and his staff were friendly, kind and amazing! From the time I walked in till the time I walked out they walked me through everything! They are also very cutting edge! I have osteoporosis. Last June I had a reclast infusion to strengthen my bones. However, in 1% of people it can affect healing in the mouth. (Who knew?) So to help with the healing they drew my blood, put into a machine and injected into my tooth socket where they did the extraction.

- Carol Lehman

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Vera Kennedy

Great experience with BOM. The staff were professional and kind. The oral surgeon was excellent. He used stem cells from my own body to heal the area where he removed 4 teeth. I have very little pain 1 day post op. So impressed. Thank you all. I highly recommend them.

- Vera Kennedy

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Jerica Esguerra

Both my daughter and son had their wisdom teeth removed at BOMS with Dr. Park. They each had a great experience. From the initial consultation to post-op care, Dr. Park clearly explained everything to us and the kids. The staff were also friendly, professional, and very supportive throughout the entire process. We highly recommend Dr. Park and his team. We’ll definitely be bringing our youngest son here for his wisdom teeth extraction next year.

- Jerica Esguerra

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Karen Cullinane

This entire office, including Dr. Boulos made this visit seamless and efficient. His dedication to patient care is completely evident in all interactions. My son’s developmental disabilities make him a difficult patient to work with, and the team at BOMS consistently demonstrated a high level of professionalism. Wonderful to find an expert & amazing Doctor! Thank you for doing such a great job taking care of Dan. Regards, Karen & Bill Cullinane

- Karen Cullinane

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Shannon Hassett

This was not our first time seeing Dr Novelli. He removed some teeth from my younger daughter two years ago. This past week he removed 4 impacted wisdom teeth. The entire office has been nothing but professional, courteous, explained everything to us and as for the procedure it went as well as wisdom teeth extractions can. Highly recommend this practice

- Shannon Hassett

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Jun Park

"Posting this review 5-days post-op—had all 4 of my wisdom teeth taken out, 3 of them were impacted. Dr. Novelli was my surgeon. Him and his staff were exceptional from start to finish, from my first appointment to see him for the consultation, and to the day of the surgery—providing me with all the details about the procedure, and the instructions after the procedure. He told me there are newer techniques now that they use that helps the healing process post-surgery, compared to what the surgery was in the past. The day of the surgery, I had some anxiety about the whole thing, but after coming out and being currently on day 5 post-op, with minimal to almost no pain so far, Dr. Novelli has dispelled all my preconceived terror about having your wisdom teeth removed. Yeah, so wisdom teeth extraction, no big deal now I guess. Thank you Dr. Novelli and his team!"

- Jun Park

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Courtney Hollens

"My 15yr old son had all four of his wisdom teeth extracted by Dr. Feuerstein. My son felt safe and comfortable and really liked the doctor immediately at the consultation. He was kind and funny, which I appreciated for my son. He was very thorough and knowledgeable. The procedure went smoothly and my son was sore but never in any pain. The staff was very kind as well. I would highly recommend Dr. Feuerstein and his practice...and so would my son.

- Courtney Hollens

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By THEMEMASTER

Got all four of my wisdom teeth are removed at once and put me straight to sleep. Woke up in 30 minutes and didn’t have any pain. Best first surgery ever! Everyone was was nice including Doctor Feuerstein and Nurse Lara. Fantastic work!

- THEMEMASTER

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Ashley Herrera

"Absolutely amazing experience with Dr. Han, he is truly the very best. He is not only an excellent surgeon, but a caring human being. I went in for my wisdom teeth removal, got all 4 out. He took the time to explain the procedure and the post care instructions thoroughly( in english & spanish) and he was extremely professional, patient, knowledgeable, skillful and kind. The staff were extremely helpful and welcoming and the place itself was very modern, clean and organized. I loved the atmosphere!

- Ashley Herrera

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Sandra Bottge

Dr. Feuerstein and the staff at Bergen Oral were outstanding in their care of our adult special needs son, who needed all four wisdom teeth removed. After being turned away by other oral surgeons, we were incredibly grateful to find a team willing to understand and accommodate his unique needs. They allowed us to assist during his x-ray and collaborated closely with us to develop the best treatment plan. Their compassion, professionalism, and patience made a stressful situation so much easier. Highly recommended for anyone seeking specialized and thoughtful care.

- Sandra Bottge

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review By Robert Reinemann

I was able to get a same day appointment for my dental emergency. The staff and Dr Park were very professional. Dana helped me get the appointment and Kaitlin helped me throughout the procedure. Grateful to all of them! Procedure went well and recovery has been very smooth and comfortable

- Robert Reinemann

5 out of 5 stars on

Meet Our Board-Certified Dual Degree Oral Surgeons

Wisdom Teeth Removal in New Jersey

Bergen Oral Surgery has been a trusted leader in wisdom teeth removal across North Jersey—combining surgical expertise with compassionate, patient-focused care. We handle the most complex oral surgery cases. When you choose Bergen Oral Surgery, you’re not just choosing an oral surgeon, you’re choosing a generational experience of safety, expertise, and trust.

70 Years of Trusted Excellence

Our practice has earned a reputation for clinical excellence and patient trust over seven decades of service.

Dual-Degree Surgeons

Many of our surgeons hold both dental and medical degrees, offering you a higher level of care with a comprehensive understanding of the body.

Hospital Privileges in NJ & NY

We are affiliated with hospitals across New Jersey and New York, allowing us to serve patients wherever they are with seamless continuity of care.

Multi-Lingual Care Teams

Communication matters. Our surgeons speak English, Spanish, and Korean, so you feel comfortable and understood every step of the way.

Emergency Care, 7 Days a Week

Oral health emergencies don’t wait—and neither do we. We’re available seven days a week to provide prompt, expert care when you need it most.

With four convenient locations and a commitment to patient safety and comfort, Bergen Oral Surgery is the clear choice for wisdom teeth removal in New Jersey. Experience care that’s rooted in experience, guided by advanced training, and tailored to you.

Call Us Today to Learn More About Wisdom Tooth Removal in NJ!

Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs

What will happen if I don’t get my wisdom teeth removed?

If you don’t remove your wisdom teeth, you risk a range of preventable problems—including crooked teeth, chronic pain, infections, and even cysts that can damage your jawbone and nerves. If your dentist has recommended extraction, it’s important not to delay treatment. Acting early can prevent unnecessary discomfort and costly corrective procedures later on. Learn more about the risks of delaying wisdom teeth extraction.

Is it safe to remove all 4 wisdom teeth at the same time?

Removing all four wisdom teeth at once is a common and safe procedure. This approach minimizes the need for multiple surgeries. Because sedation is used for wisdom teeth removal, this will also reduce the number of sedation sessions, which can actually reduce overall recovery time and stress for our patients. Learn more about removing all four wisdom teeth at once.

Is wisdom tooth extraction covered by insurance?

Yes, wisdom teeth extraction is often covered by insurance—but the extent of coverage depends on your specific plan. Bergen Oral Surgery accepts most major dental plans. We will work with you to maximize your reimbursement, complete and submit dental insurance forms to your insurance company, and provide accurate information regarding any fees not covered by your dental insurance. Please call our billing department at 201-342-2371 if you have any questions regarding your insurance coverage.

What are the sedation options for wisdom teeth extraction surgery?

To help patients feel comfortable during their wisdom teeth removal, we provide local anesthesia as well as three different sedation options: nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. During your consultation, we will discuss each option with you and help you choose which is right for you. Learn more about sedation options for wisdom teeth removal.

What is the best age to get wisdom teeth removed?

Most people have their wisdom teeth removed between 17 and 25 years old. This age range is ideal because the roots of the wisdom teeth are not yet fully developed, making the extraction process a little easier. However, every case is unique—some people may need removal earlier or later depending on how their teeth are developing. In most cases, it is never too late to remove your wisdom teeth.

Can wisdom teeth grow back?

No, wisdom teeth cannot grow back once they are removed. We only grow one set of adult (permanent) teeth, including up to four wisdom teeth—so once these are extracted, they do not regenerate.

How do I know if my wisdom tooth is infected? (And can it still be extracted?)

Moderate to strong discomfort at the site of the wisdom tooth is the most common sign that your tooth has become infected or impacted. Infection can also cause the soft tissues to turn red, swell and become tender. Other symptoms include swelling in the cheek or jaw, a visible abscess, headache and fever. A more advanced infection will also leave a bad taste in your mouth when you chew or cause bad breath. Learn more about extracting a tooth that is infected.