Wisdom teeth extractions are a very common dental procedure amongst teens and young adults. Typically, wisdom teeth erupt several years after the adult teeth. This may cause oral issues as wisdom teeth can crowd the adult teeth or cause other problems when there isn’t enough room. Impacted wisdom teeth, where they do not have room to emerge as they should, can cause infections under the surface of the gums.
Concerns surrounding the cost of wisdom teeth extractions, may prevent some individuals from receiving the treatment they need. However, the average cost of this procedure, especially with dental insurance, might be less than you expect.
If you’re in need of wisdom teeth removal in Columbia, MD, reach out to Dr. Michael Hsu of Columbia Smiles today. Our skilled and experienced team will provide you with the compassionate care you need and show you the path for getting your wisdom teeth extracted. Call 410.690.4855 to learn more.
Average Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
What is the average cost to have wisdom teeth removed? The cost of a wisdom tooth extraction will depend on a number of factors. A single wisdom tooth extraction could cost anywhere from $200 to $1100. Some factors which impact the cost of this procedure include:
- The complexity of the procedure – Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can be more expensive to remove
- How many wisdom teeth need to be extracted – If you need all four wisdom teeth removed, some dentists offer a discount if you do all at once
- Your age – Wisdom teeth extraction later in life can be more expensive
- Exams and X-rays – Diagnosing what’s going on beneath the gum’s surface may add additional expense
- Medications – You may need a prescription pain reliever to help you manage pain after the procedure
Speaking with your dentist about the procedure will give you a better understanding of what to expect. Most likely, your dentist will recommend an oral surgeon. If you need your wisdom teeth removed, don’t put off this procedure due to concerns about the cost. Follow your dentist’s advice when it comes to your wisdom teeth. In addition, getting regular exams is the best method for ensuring good oral health long-term.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
Typically, dental insurance will cover about 80% of the costs associated with wisdom tooth extractions. Depending on your plan, you might have more or less of this procedure covered.
Some dental insurance plans have caps on how much they will cover in a given year. For this reason, some individuals opt to split their wisdom teeth removal procedures over two years.
Payment plans may be an option if you do not have dental insurance. Speak with your oral surgeon about their options for patients without insurance, as some offices offer discount plans and ways to pay over time.
What to Expect During a Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extractions are typically performed in a dental office or oral surgery center. Before the wisdom teeth removal procedure, the patient will be given anesthesia to numb the area making them comfortable.
The wisdom tooth extraction procedure itself includes cutting away gum tissue around the wisdom teeth, removing the wisdom teeth, and sewing up the area where the wisdom teeth were removed. Wisdom tooth removal typically takes about an hour, depending on the complexity of the wisdom teeth.
After wisdom tooth extraction, patients can expect mild to moderate swelling and bruising around their jawline, as well as some pain and discomfort. This is normal and should subside within a few days. It’s important to follow any aftercare instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon to ensure that the wisdom tooth extraction site is healing properly.
Schedule an Appointment at Columbia Smiles Today
Columbia Smiles and Dr. Hsu have been trusted by Howard County residents for over 35 years. In our dental practice, our experienced dentists and hygienists offer a wide variety of dentistry services. From cosmetic dentistry services to wisdom tooth consultations, our team can help you with all of your oral health needs.
Schedule an appointment today and discover the Columbia Smiles difference. We ensure that our patients are as comfortable as possible in our office and offer services like sedation dentistry for those who experience dental anxiety.
Call our team at 410.690.4855 today or use our online contact form to learn more.
