When Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed? A South Jersey Oral Surgeon Explains

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people they cause little trouble, but for many patients in South Jersey they bring pain, swelling, or crowding that can disrupt daily life. At our Burlington Township office, we often see patients who are unsure whether these teeth need to be removed.

When Removal Becomes Necessary

One of the first warning signs is persistent pain in the back of the mouth. Gums that swell or bleed easily are another indicator, especially if food becomes trapped under partially erupted teeth. In some cases, X-rays reveal that wisdom teeth are pressing against healthy molars, creating crowding or even damaging nearby roots.

Common reasons for removal include:

• Repeated gum infections

• Pressure on neighboring teeth

• Cysts forming around impacted teeth

The Value of Early Evaluation

The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons recommends having wisdom teeth evaluated in the mid-teen years. At that stage the roots are not fully formed, which makes removal easier and recovery faster. Early treatment can also prevent long-term issues like jawbone loss or orthodontic relapse.

What Patients Can Expect

Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine procedure in our practice. Most treatments take less than an hour and are performed under safe sedation to keep patients comfortable. After the procedure, we provide detailed home-care instructions and remain available to answer questions during the healing process.

Healing and Recovery

The first day is the most important for protecting the surgical sites. Applying ice packs and sticking to soft foods such as soups or smoothies helps minimize discomfort. We recommend avoiding straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing, as these can disrupt healing. Most South Jersey patients are back to school, work, or light activities within two to three days.

Care Close to Home

Choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference. Dr. Anthony Prousi, DDS, MD, has extensive training and experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and has helped thousands of South Jersey patients through wisdom tooth removal. Our Burlington Township office combines advanced technology with a compassionate approach so patients can feel confident about their care.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or your teen are experiencing wisdom tooth discomfort, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Call Prousi Oral & Facial Surgery at Prousi Oral & Facial Surgery, LLC office Phone Number 609-526-8650 or request an appointment online. We proudly serve patients from Burlington Township, Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, Camden County, and across South Jersey.