The Real Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re someone who has been advised to get their wisdom teeth removed, it’s natural to be worried about the cost. Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure, but how much can it really cost? Let’s take a closer look at the real cost of wisdom tooth removal and everything else you need to know.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth in the First Place?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually develop during a person’s late teenage years or early adulthood. In most cases, they don’t cause any pain or discomfort, but the problem arises when there isn’t enough space for them to grow normally. This can lead to overcrowding, decay, gum disease, cysts, and infections, hence their removal is often recommended.
What Are the Different Types of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
There are two main types of wisdom teeth removal: simple extraction and surgical extraction. As the name suggests, simple extraction is a relatively straightforward procedure where the tooth is removed using a pair of forceps. Whereas, surgical extraction is more complex and is usually recommended when the tooth is impacted or has not fully emerged from the gum. The cost of the procedure will depend on the complexity of the removal and your insurance coverage.
How Much Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Cost?
On average, the cost of wisdom tooth extraction can range from $75 to $200 per tooth for a simple extraction. However, this cost does not include the cost of anesthetic, X-rays, or a consultation fee. If your teeth are fully impacted, the cost may increase based on the expertise of the oral surgeon and the diagnostic imaging involved. It’s important to get an estimate from your dentist before proceeding with the procedure.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Several factors can affect the total cost of wisdom tooth extraction. These include:
- The type of extraction required
- The location of the dentist
- The complexity of the procedure
- Your insurance coverage
- The need for X-rays or additional diagnostic tests
- The use of sedation or anesthesia
Ways to Manage the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
While the cost of wisdom tooth extraction may seem daunting, there are several ways to manage the cost. Consider the following options:
- Consult with your dental insurance provider to understand what is covered under your plan, and if you need to pay out of pocket, ask about any fixed discounts or referral programs.
- Get multiple quotes and compare prices of different dentists or oral surgeons who offer the procedure in your area.
- Discuss your dental anxiety levels with your dentist as sedation or anesthesia may come at a cost. Alternatively, you could choose just local anesthesia which is less expensive.
Conclusion
The cost of wisdom tooth extraction can vary depending on several factors such as the type of extraction required, the location of the dentist, and insurance coverage. If you’re worried about the cost, there are several ways to manage it. The most important thing is to consult with your dentist, understand the procedure in detail, and explore different options so that you can make an informed decision. Wisdom tooth extraction is an investment in your dental health, and while it may be costly in the short term, it can help prevent significant long-term health problems.
