The Cost of Removing Wisdom Teeth: How Much Can You Expect to Pay?
Wisdom teeth are one of the last sets of teeth to arrive in the mouth, and they may sometimes cause problems, such as pain, infections, and overcrowding, among others. As a result, removal of such teeth may become necessary. However, the cost of wisdom teeth removal may vary significantly. So, if you are considering removing your wisdom teeth, you may wonder, how much can you expect to pay?
Factors Affecting the Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal
The cost of removing wisdom teeth may depend on several factors such as location, type of extraction, anesthesia, surgeon’s expertise, and additional costs.
Location
The cost of the surgery varies depending on your geographical location. Generally, dental procedures located in more affluent cities would cost more than those in rural areas.
Type of Extraction
The type of extraction required plays a crucial role in determining the cost of the surgery. There are two main types of extraction: simple extraction and surgical extraction. A simple extraction is less complicated and occurs when the tooth is entirely out of the gum line. A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure that requires cutting into the gum line, removing bone, or breaking teeth before extraction. As you can imagine, with all things being equal, surgical extraction cost more than simple extraction.
Anesthesia
The anesthesia used during the procedure is another factor that determines the cost of the extraction. There are several forms of anesthesia, including general anesthesia, intravenous sedation, and local anesthesia. General anesthesia is the most expensive, followed by intravenous sedation, while local anesthesia is the least expensive.
Surgeon’s Expertise
The expertise of the oral surgeon may also influence the cost. The more experienced the surgeon, the more likely they will do a better job, but this may come at a higher cost.
Additional Costs
Additional costs associated with the extraction may include consultation, x-ray, and prescription medication.
What is the Average Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the above factors. On average, wisdom teeth extraction may cost between $75 to $200 for a simple extraction and up to $600 for a surgical extraction. The cost may be higher if general anesthesia is used, and additional costs such as consultation, and x-ray are added.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, location, anesthesia used, surgeon’s expertise, and additional costs. It may be a good idea to consult with an oral surgeon to get an accurate estimate. While the cost may seem high, wisdom teeth removal can save you from significant pain, discomfort, and even more extensive dental issues down the line.
