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5 Clear Signs It’s Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal in East Orange

Jul 16, 2025
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Discover if your dental discomfort means it's time for wisdom teeth removal. Learn the top signs and what to expect during the procedure.

Top 5 Signs You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal in East Orange, NJ | Nova Dental

Introduction

If you’ve ever felt a sharp ache in the back of your mouth or noticed swelling in your gums, you might be facing an unwelcome guest: wisdom teeth. Usually, these third molars erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, they grow without issue. But often, they become problematic - and when that happens, removal becomes necessary.

Let’s break down the top 5 warning signs that you need your wisdom teeth removed, especially if you’re located in East Orange. And if you're searching for expert care, Nova Dental NJ is here to help you every step of the way at our East Orange office, conveniently located in East Orange, NJ 07017.

Top 5 Signs You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

1. Ongoing Pain Towards the Back of Your Jaw

Is there a dull ache or sharp pain at the very back of your jaw? This could be your wisdom teeth trying to push their way in.

What the Pain Could Mean

Pain is your body's red flag. When it happens around y our wisdom teeth, it could be from:

  • Impacted teeth pushing against others

  • Inflamed or infected gum tissue

  • Pressure on nerves

If the pain keeps coming back or worsens over time, don’t ignore it-it’s a strong sign those molars need to go.

2. Swelling and Redness Around the Gums

Notice your gums looking puffier or redder than usual?

Early Warning Signs of Infection

Swollen gums near the back of your mouth are often caused by partially erupted wisdom teeth, which can trap food and bacteria. This leads to:

  • Gum infections (pericoronitis)

  • Abscesses

  • Bleeding while brushing

If brushing feels like a battle, it’s time to call your dentist.

3. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth or Chewing

Are you struggling to open your mouth wide or chew comfortably?

Pressure and Jaw Issues

Impacted wisdom teeth can affect how your jaw moves, causing:

  • Limited jaw mobility

  • Pain while chewing

  • Clicking or popping sounds

This can make everyday tasks like eating and talking feel uncomfortable or even painful.

4. Recurring Headaches or Ear-aches

Believe it or not, wisdom teeth can affect more than just your mouth.

How Wisdom Teeth Affect Other Areas

When wisdom teeth press on nerves or surrounding teeth, it can trigger:

  • Tension headaches

  • Referred pain to the ears or sinuses

If you’ve ruled out other causes, your wisdom teeth might be the hidden culprit.

5. Crowded or Shifting Teeth

Have you noticed your once-straight teeth starting to overlap?

Impact on Your Smile and Bite

Wisdom teeth can cause crowding, especially if your mouth doesn’t have room for them. This may lead to:

  • Shifting front teeth

  • Damage to neighboring molars

  • Bite misalignment

If you've gone through the effort of having braces, wisdom teeth can actually mess up all that progress. That's why it's often a good idea to deal with them sooner rather than later. 

Risks of Delayed Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Letting wisdom teeth stay too long can result in:

  • Cysts or tumors

  • Damage to jawbone or nerves

  • Chronic infections

Potential for Serious Infections

Ignoring infection signs can lead to swelling that spreads, fever, and even hospitalization. Early removal is often the safest and smartest choice.

When & How Nova Dental, East Orange Can Help

1. Timing Is Everything: The best time to remove wisdom teeth is before they cause complications. This often means early detection through regular check-ups and X-rays.

2. Preventative Vs. Emergency Extractions: Planned, preventative removals are less painful, cheaper, and heal faster than emergency surgeries. If you're in East Orange, it's wise to visit a trusted local dental provider at 90 Washington Street, Suite 309, East Orange, NJ 07017, before it becomes urgent.

Personalized Consultations

1. At Nova Dental NJ, you’ll get a custom treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether your wisdom teeth are just coming in or already causing chaos, their experienced team has got you covered.

2. State-of-the-Art Technology

Nova Dental NJ uses digital X-rays and 3D imaging to get a full view of your teeth and jaw, ensuring precise and safe removal.

3. Experienced Dental Team in East Orange

Led by professionals who specialize in oral surgery, Nova Dental NJ offers comfortable, efficient, and compassionate care for patients in East Orange and beyond.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure at Nova Dental NJ

What to Expect

The procedure is usually done in one visit under local or general anesthesia. Here's what typically happens:

  1. Numbing or sedation

  2. Incision to remove teeth

  3. Stitches (if necessary)

  4. Post-op guidance

Most patients are usually finished and heading home in under 60 minutes.

Recovery and Aftercare Tips

  • Rest for 24–48 hours

  • Use cold compresses to reduce swelling

  • Eat soft foods like yogurt and smoothies

  • Avoid smoking or drinking through straws

Nova Dental, NJ provides full recovery instructions and check-ins to ensure you heal quickly.

Conclusion

Your wisdom teeth might not bother you yet, but they can really start to hurt later on. The sooner you catch the signs, the easier the treatment. If you're experiencing any of the 5 signs above, it’s time to schedule a visit with your local East Orange dental experts at Nova Dental NJ.

In addition to our East Orange office, we also proudly serve patients from nearby Newark with two convenient locations:

FAQs

  1. How do I know if my wisdom teeth are impacted?
    If they’re not erupting properly and are stuck under the gum or pushing sideways against other teeth, they’re likely impacted. X-rays confirm this.
  2. Can I avoid removing my wisdom teeth?
    Only if they’re growing in properly and not causing issues. Most people need them removed due to space problems or infection risks.
  3. Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
    With modern anesthesia and post-op care, discomfort is minimal. Nova Dental NJ ensures a comfortable experience from start to finish.
  4. How long is recovery after the procedure?
    Most people return to normal in 3–5 days. Full healing may take a couple of weeks.
  5. Why choose Nova Dental NJ for wisdom teeth removal?
    They offer expert care, advanced technology, and personalized attention-all from a trusted East Orange dental team.