Wisdom Teeth Removal Costs

Why are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth, or the third molars, are the last molars to erupt, usually in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, in the present era, many people’s jaws aren’t big enough to fit these teeth, which might cause issues and ultimately to their extraction. It is possible for wisdom teeth to be horizontal, inclined toward or away from the second molars, angled inward, or angled outward when they are not correctly aligned. Overcrowding and damage to adjacent teeth, jawbone, and nerves are all possible outcomes of this misalignment.

Wisdom teeth have the capability to become trapped in either the soft tissue or the jawbone, known as being “impacted.” This occurs when they do not fully emerge from the gums, creating a gap for bacteria to enter and lead to infection. As a consequence of this impaction and infection, people may endure discomfort, inflammation, restricted jaw movement, and general illness.

Moreover, the presence of partially emerged or misaligned wisdom teeth can result in unpleasant crowding and the development of diseases. To avoid these potential issues and maintain dental wellbeing in the long run, numerous dentists suggest the extraction of wisdom teeth as a precautionary step.

Why is this procedure different from a regular tooth extraction?

Wisdom tooth extraction is indeed not your routine dental procedure. Unlike the extraction of a fully erupted and accessible tooth, wisdom teeth often present unique challenges that necessitate a more complex approach. These teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which makes them harder to reach. Moreover, they are frequently impacted, meaning they are not fully erupted or are misaligned, which requires careful surgical intervention to remove. A regular tooth extraction typically involves loosening the tooth and lifting it out of the socket. In contrast, wisdom tooth removal can involve incisions in the gums, bone removal to access the tooth, and sectioning the tooth into pieces to minimize the amount of bone that needs to be removed.

Including these extra measures, along with the possibility of requiring sedation or general anesthesia, further complicates and extends the process of removing wisdom teeth. This also increases the likelihood of complications and lengthens the time needed for recovery compared to a regular tooth extraction.

What is involved in wisdom tooth removal

The process of removing a wisdom tooth begins with a comprehensive examination, which includes X-rays, to determine the position and condition of the tooth. This step is crucial in planning the method of extraction. Once the dentist or oral surgeon has understood the complexities involved, they will typically administer anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure.

For a wisdom tooth that is impacted, the oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. Any bone blocking access to the tooth root must be carefully removed. The tooth may then be divided into smaller pieces to facilitate a more manageable extraction. This careful incision and bone removal step are what primarily differentiate wisdom tooth removal from regular tooth extractions.

Once the tooth is fully extracted, the site is cleansed of any debris, and the wound may be stitched to promote healing. Post-operative care instructions are then provided to help manage swelling, discomfort, and to ensure proper healing of the area.

What are the complications of removal

When discussing the wisdom teeth removal procedure, an important aspect patients should consider are the potential complications that might arise. While most extractions proceed without issue, some individuals may experience difficulties.

Dry socket is one of the more common complications, occurring when a blood clot fails to form in the hole left by the extracted tooth, or if the clot dislodges too soon. Infection is also a possibility, especially if the extraction site is not kept clean or the patient’s immune system is compromised. Nerve damage, while rare, can happen during the surgery, leading to numbness or a tingling sensation that can be temporary or, in some instances, permanent.

Another concern includes damage to the surrounding teeth, particularly if the wisdom teeth are impacted and located close to the neighboring molars. Finally, patients may encounter prolonged bleeding or swelling post-surgery. All these potential complications underscore the need for proper aftercare and closely following your oral surgeon’s guidelines post-operation.

How much does a wisdom tooth extraction cost and what does the price consist of?

The cost of wisdom tooth extraction can certainly put a dent in your pocket. On average, simple extractions of fully erupted wisdom teeth can range from $300 to $800. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted, be prepared to spend more. Soft tissue impacted teeth usually range from $800 to $1500, while those with a bony impaction can cost anywhere from $1000 to $1800 per tooth.

Several factors contribute to these costs. The price of extraction typically includes the baseline charge for the procedure, which starts at around $75 per tooth. The complexity of the extraction increases the cost accordingly. Moreover, the need for different levels of anesthesia, the expertise of the oral surgeon, and even the geographical cost of living all influence the final bill. It’s always prudent to discuss cost breakdowns with your oral surgeon to understand the specifics of what you’re paying for.

Below is a table that summarizes the wisdom teeth removal cost across various clinics in different states in the United States: