Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that emerge during early adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth can sometimes erupt without any issues, they often cause pain and discomfort due to problems like impaction and overcrowding. In such cases, wisdom teeth surgery may be necessary. But how much does wisdom teeth surgery cost? And what factors affect the price? In this article, we’ll explore the cost of wisdom teeth surgery and everything you need to know to make an informed decision about your oral health.
Factors that Affect Wisdom Teeth Surgery Cost
The cost of wisdom teeth surgery can vary depending on several factors. These include:
- Number of Teeth: The cost of wisdom teeth surgery will depend on how many teeth need to be removed. If you need to have all four wisdom teeth removed, for instance, it will be more expensive than if you only need one or two removed.
- Type of Anesthesia: Wisdom teeth surgery can be performed under local anesthesia (numbing the area around the tooth) or general anesthesia (putting you to sleep). General anesthesia typically results in a higher cost due to the use of additional equipment and personnel.
- Surgeon’s Experience: The more experienced the surgeon, the higher the cost may be.
- Geographic Location: The cost of dental procedures, including wisdom teeth surgery, can vary depending on the state or city you live in.
- Insurance Coverage: If you have dental insurance that covers oral surgery, your out-of-pocket costs will be lower than if you are paying for the procedure out of pocket.
Wisdom Teeth Surgery Cost: Average Prices
So, how much can you expect to pay for wisdom teeth surgery? According to recent data, the average cost of having all four wisdom teeth removed is approximately $3,000-$3,500.
In some cases, the cost may be much lower, especially if you only need one or two teeth removed. Depending on the factors above, your individual cost may be higher or lower than average.
What is Included in Wisdom Teeth Surgery Cost?
The cost of wisdom teeth surgery typically includes:
- Pre-Operative Exam: Your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the location and positioning of your wisdom teeth.
- Anesthesia: You will either receive local anesthesia (numbing the area around the tooth) or general anesthesia (putting you to sleep) depending on the complexity of your surgery.
- Procedure: The actual surgery to remove your wisdom teeth.
- Prescribed Medications: You may be prescribed painkillers or antibiotics to help with recovery.
- Follow-Up Visits: Your dentist or oral surgeon may schedule a follow-up visit to check your progress and ensure that you are healing properly.
Can You Afford Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
While the cost of wisdom teeth surgery may seem high, you don’t have to break the bank to afford this dental procedure. There are several options available to make the cost more manageable:
- Dental Insurance: If you have dental insurance that covers oral surgery, your out-of-pocket costs will be lower.
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA): An FSA allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover medical expenses. Talk to your employer to see if they offer this benefit.
- CareCredit: CareCredit is a healthcare credit card designed to help cover medical expenses, including dental procedures like wisdom teeth surgery.
- Payment Plan: Some dental offices offer payment plans that allow you to pay off the cost of the procedure over time.
How to Find Affordable Wisdom Teeth Surgery
If you don’t have dental insurance or other coverage to help with the cost of wisdom teeth surgery, there are still ways to find affordable options:
- Research: Shop around and compare prices from different dental offices or clinics. You may be able to find an option that is more affordable without sacrificing quality of care.
- Look for Discounts: Some dental offices or clinics may offer discounts for new patients or for those paying cash.
- Consider Dental Schools: Dental schools may offer oral surgery services at a reduced cost. While the procedure will be performed by a student, it will be supervised by a licensed dentist or oral surgeon.
Wisdom Teeth Surgery: Is it Worth the Cost?
While the cost of wisdom teeth surgery may seem high, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the cost. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and even damage to adjacent teeth or gums. In some cases, the cost of surgery may be more affordable than the cost of treating complications down the line.
Conclusion
While the cost of wisdom teeth surgery may seem daunting, there are several ways to make it more affordable. By researching your options, using insurance or payment plans, and considering alternative options, you can find a high-quality provider who will help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile.
List of Common Questions and Answers
- Q: Does dental insurance typically cover wisdom teeth surgery?
- A: Most dental insurance plans will cover a portion of the cost of wisdom teeth surgery, but coverage will vary depending on your plan. Contact your insurance provider to determine what is covered.
- Q: Is it better to have all four wisdom teeth removed at once?
- A: While it depends on your individual situation, having all four wisdom teeth removed at once may be the best option to reduce overall costs and avoid further dental issues down the line.
- Q: How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth surgery?
- A: The recovery time for wisdom teeth surgery can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. In general, you can expect a few days of discomfort and swelling.
- Q: What are the risks of wisdom teeth surgery?
- A: While complications are rare, there are some risks associated with wisdom teeth surgery, including bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and dry socket. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
References
- American Dental Association. (2021). Wisdom Teeth Removal. Retrived from: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/wisdom-teeth
- Colgate. (n.d.). How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost? Retrieved from: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/cost-of-wisdom-teeth-removal-0415
- Nerdwallet. (2019). What is the Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal? Retrieved from: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/wisdom-teeth-removal-cost