Wisdom Teeth Removal in Somerville, NJ

Wisdom teeth removal in Somerville — gentle, expert care for teens and adults.

Most people will need their wisdom teeth (third molars) removed at some point — typically between ages 17 and 25, before they cause crowding, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth. Dr. Anand performs both routine and complex surgical extractions in our Somerville office, drawing on her advanced University of Michigan training in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

When do wisdom teeth need to come out?

• Impaction — the tooth is stuck under the gum or against another tooth
• Crowding — pushing other teeth out of alignment
• Recurrent gum infections around partially erupted teeth (pericoronitis)
• Cysts or tumors developing around impacted teeth
• Damage to adjacent molars from pressure or decay
• Persistent pain or pressure in the back of the jaw

Some wisdom teeth do NOT need to come out

If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, properly aligned, easy to clean, and causing no problems — you may not need them removed. Dr. Anand will give you an honest assessment based on X-rays and clinical exam, not a one-size-fits-all recommendation.

What to expect on extraction day

1. Numbing or sedation. Most cases use local anesthetic. For complex impactions or anxious patients, we offer additional comfort options.
2. Procedure. Routine extractions take 5-15 minutes per tooth. Surgical extractions of impacted teeth take 20-45 minutes per tooth.
3. Recovery setup. Gauze is placed; you'll bite down for 30-45 minutes after.
4. Go home with a caregiver if you had any sedation.

Recovery timeline

• Day 1-2: Most swelling and soreness. Ice packs, soft foods, ibuprofen.
• Day 3-4: Swelling peaks then begins decreasing. Gentle saltwater rinses start.
• Day 5-7: Most patients return to normal eating and activities.
• Day 7-14: Stitches dissolve or are removed. Full healing underway.

Cost in Somerville, NJ

Simple extraction: $150-$300 per tooth. Surgical extraction of impacted wisdom teeth: $300-$600 per tooth. Full-mouth (4 wisdom teeth): typically $800-$1,800. Most PPOs cover at least surgical extractions; oral surgery benefit varies by plan.

Why early removal is often easier

Wisdom teeth in younger patients (17-22) usually haven't fully calcified yet, so extraction is faster, healing is quicker, and complications are rarer. Waiting until the late 20s or 30s typically means a more complex procedure and longer recovery.