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Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Information Page is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive insights into the specialized procedure we offer. Explore in-depth guides and watch educational videos. We're committed to ensuring you're well-informed and confident when choosing us for your wisdom teeth extraction needs.
Taking Charge: Wisdom Teeth Removal Expenses with and without Insurance
Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled: What You Need to Know
Why Removing Your Wisdom Teeth Matters
Wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, usually pop up during late teens to early twenties. These teeth can mess with your mouth’s comfort and alignment, making their removal pretty important. Here’s why:
Say Goodbye to Pain: Impacted wisdom teeth can be a real pain in the jaw and might even swell up. Getting them out can save you from a world of hurt.
Keep Teeth Straight: Wisdom teeth can push your other teeth around, messing up years of orthodontic work. Removing them keeps everything lined up.
Dodge Infections: Partially emerged wisdom teeth can invite bacteria in, leading to infections or nasty abscesses.
Shield Neighboring Teeth: These pesky teeth can damage nearby ones by creating pressure or trapping food and plaque.
Getting those wisdom teeth out can help keep your mouth healthy and avoid future troubles.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal
Knowing what to expect can make the whole ordeal less scary. Here’s what typically goes down:
Meeting the Surgeon: First off, you’ll meet with an oral surgeon. They’ll take X-rays to see where your wisdom teeth are and figure out if they need to go. You’ll also chat about any worries and make a plan.
Numbing the Pain: Before the big moment, you'll get local anesthesia, sedation, or even general anesthesia—depends on how tricky your teeth are and your comfort level.
The Extraction: Once you're numb, the surgeon will cut into your gum to reach the tooth. Sometimes they’ll break it into pieces to get it out easier. This part usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Closing Up Shop: After getting the tooth out, the surgeon will clean the area and might put in some stitches. Some dissolve on their own, others you’ll need to go back for.
Healing Up: You’ll get tips on taking care of the extraction site. This includes managing pain, diet suggestions, and things to avoid. Dr. Wisdom Teeth uses PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin) at no extra charge to help you heal faster and lower the chance of a dry socket.
Making the Best Decisions for Your Oral Health
By grasping the reasons behind and the process of wisdom teeth removal, you're better equipped to make smart choices for your dental health. For more detailed info, check out how to get affordable wisdom teeth removal in Utah and see if insurance covers wisdom teeth removal.
Get your smile back in shape without the fuss!
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
Sorting out the expenses for wisdom teeth removal is key to getting this done without any nasty surprises. In this section, we're breaking down what you need to know about costs and how insurance can lighten the financial load.
What Influences the Cost?
There's a bunch of stuff that can change how much you’ll pay to get those wisdom teeth out. Knowing these factors can help you plan and avoid a jaw-dropping bill.
Surgery Complexity: If your wisdom teeth are playing hide-and-seek or growing at a weird angle, expect to pay more for the trickier extraction (does surgery complexity affect cost?).
Location, Location, Location: City folk often pay more than those in smaller towns. Check out our take on wisdom teeth removal costs in Utah for some insights.
Surgeon’s Skill Level: A top-notch, experienced surgeon? Probably costs more, but you get what you pay for.
Anesthesia Choices: Local, general, or IV sedation? Each option carries a different price tag.
Facility Fees: Deluxe clinics will make your wallet lighter compared to basic ones.
Aftercare: Don’t forget follow-up visits and meds—they can add to the final bill.
Getting it Done with Insurance
Insurance can be a lifesaver here. Most plans cover part of the surgery, but how much they chip in depends on your policy (does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?).
Insurance StatusBallpark CostWith Insurance$100 - $300 per toothWithout Insurance$200 - $700 per tooth
Coverage Insights
Talk to Your Provider: Check if your plan includes wisdom teeth removal. Here’s more on checking insurance coverage.
In-Network Savings: Stick with in-network surgeons to keep costs down. Go outside that network and you might end up paying more.
Pre-authorization: Some insurers want a heads-up before they give you the go-ahead for surgery.
Dr. Wisdom Teeth keeps things affordable while providing top-notch care. They accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid and CHIP. Plus, their special price of $999 for wisdom teeth removal makes it easier to say yes to treatment.
Worried about the cost? Check out our section on payment plans for wisdom teeth removal. This can help spread out the financial bite, making it easier to handle.
删## Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Out Without Insurance
What’s it Gonna Cost?
Without insurance, getting those pesky wisdom teeth out can feel like another headache. Knowing what expenses to expect can help ease the pain… in your wallet.
What You’ll Pay:
First Visit: Meeting with the oral surgeon for the first time usually costs between $50 and $300.
The Actual Removal: Taking out one tooth can be cheap if it’s a quick pull, costing $75 to $200. But if it’s a tricky one, think more like $225 to $600 per tooth.
Knockout Fees: Whether you want laughing gas or the more serious IV sedation, expect to pay an extra $200 to $600.
Other Stuff They'll Charge For:
X-rays: Needed to see what's going on inside, usually about $100 to $250.
PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin): Some places charge up to $300, but at Dr. Wisdom Teeth, it’s free.
Meds: Painkillers and antibiotics will add another $20 to $50.
ServiceCost Without InsuranceFirst Visit$50 - $300Basic Tooth Removal (per tooth)$75 - $200Tough Tooth Surgery (per tooth)$225 - $600Sedation$200 - $600X-rays$100 - $250PRFUp to $300 (free with Dr. Wisdom Teeth)Meds$20 - $50
Is It Cheaper With Insurance?
Comparing costs with and without insurance can help you decide if it’s worth it to fork out for a dental plan.
What Insurance Might Cover:
First Visit: They might pay part or all of it.
Extraction Costs: Some insurance may cover up to 80% if it's medically needed.
Sedation: Some plans cover it, at least a part of it.
X-rays: Often included if necessary for the procedure.
Meds: Usually covered under your insurance’s prescription plan.
Your Share Even With Insurance: You’ll still pay some costs out of pocket like deductibles, co-pays, and anything insurance doesn’t cover.
ServiceCost With InsuranceCost Without InsuranceFirst Visit$0 - $100$50 - $300Basic Tooth Removal (per tooth)$15 - $40$75 - $200Tough Tooth Surgery (per tooth)$45 - $120$225 - $600Sedation$80 - $200$200 - $600X-rays$0 - $50$100 - $250PRFIncludedUp to $300 (free with Dr. Wisdom Teeth)Meds$0 - $10$20 - $50
Looking for a budget-friendly option? Check out places like Dr. Wisdom Teeth, where you might snag some sweet deals and maybe some free goodies. The complexity of the surgery and swanky tech like PRF will affect your total bill. For more tips on saving cash, visit our cost-saving tips. Want to dive deeper into costs? See our article on costs in Utah cities.
Affordable Wisdom Teeth Removal Options
Getting the Best Deal
Wisdom teeth removal can cost a mint, but it doesn't have to! Here are some cool deals and hacks to keep those bucks in your wallet:
Dr. Wisdom Teeth Special: Get your wisdom teeth yanked for just $999 with Dr. Wisdom Teeth (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). And guess what? They throw in PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin) for free, which usually sets you back $300. PRF can shrink the odds of a dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100, helping you heal faster.
Here's a peek at what you save with the free PRF bump:
ServiceWith PRFWithout PRFRemoval Cost$999$999PRF Charge$0$300Total$999$1299
More juicy deals await in our guide to affordable wisdom teeth removal in Utah.
Save Your Pennies
Let’s cut those teeth-pulling expenses with these savvy tips:
Payment Plans to the Rescue: Forget having to drop a load of cash at once. Many dental clinics let you pay bit by bit, making a big expense much kinder on your bank balance. Dive deeper into payment plans for wisdom teeth removal.
Insurance Insight: Got dental insurance? Make sure you know what's covered! Properly checking your insurance could mean fewer dollars out-of-pocket. Get more details at does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal.
Discount Hunting: Students, rejoice! Some clinics offer sweet discounts for students, or seasonal offers that’ll have you grinning. Stay on the lookout for those promotions.
Shop Around: Costs can be poles apart from one city to another. Comparing prices in different spots might save you big bucks. Find out more by checking out how wisdom teeth removal costs vary by city in Utah.
Beware Hidden Fees: Don’t get stung by sneaky extra charges. Always ask if there are additional fees for consultations, follow-ups, or meds. Say goodbye to surprise costs by visiting hidden costs of wisdom teeth removal.
Using these tricks, you won’t just save money—you’ll still get top-notch care.
Choosing the Right Provider
Picking someone to yank those pesky wisdom teeth isn't a decision to take lightly. You want to make sure you're in good hands to avoid any complications or regrets.
What to Look For
Here's what you should be thinking about when it’s time to find the right person for the job:
Qualifications and Experience: Make sure your dentist has all the right credentials and focuses on wisdom teeth. Someone like Dr. Heath Hendrickson, D.D.S. who has been at it for over a decade is a good bet.
Tech Savvy: Modern tools can make the whole process a lot smoother and safer. Check if your dentist uses the latest stuff to ensure a better experience.
Comfort Factor: Are they good at keeping patients calm? Effective sedation methods are a must. Providers like Dr. Wisdom Teeth have sedated over 60,000 patients without a hitch, so you know you're in capable hands.
Cost and Insurance: Affordability matters. Look for clear pricing and someone who can help you navigate the insurance maze. For more details, check out how to get affordable wisdom teeth removal in Utah.
Location, Location, Location: You don’t want to be hobbling miles post-surgery. Pick someone close to home or work.
Payment Plans: Wisdom teeth removal isn't cheap. Look for dentists offering payment flexibility. More info on that at payment plans for wisdom teeth removal.
Reputations Matter
A good reputation can tell you a lot about what to expect:
Online Reviews: Look those up. For instance, Dr. Wisdom Teeth has a glowing 4.9-star rating on Google—people seem pretty happy with him.
Patient Stories: Read some experiences from other folks. It's comforting to see other patients had a good experience.
Track Record: Dentists who've handled loads of these extractions generally know their stuff. With over 200,000 removals, Dr. Wisdom Teeth clearly knows the drill.
Specialization: A dentist focused on just wisdom teeth is usually more skilled. Providers like Dr. Heath Hendrickson fit the bill.
Extra Perks: Bilingual services, free insurance checks, these little extras can make a difference.
By keeping these points in mind, you can find a provider who’ll make sure your wisdom teeth removal is as smooth as possible.
For more info on costs, check out:
The Patient Experience and Benefits
Get ready to breathe easy when dealing with wisdom teeth removal, thanks to some nifty recovery tricks and assistance programs that make your life simpler.
Healing Hacks
When you hear "wisdom teeth removal," you might think of pain and downtime, but it doesn't have to be that way. One game-changer is PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin). This stuff essentially turbocharges your body's healing powers, speeding up recovery and cutting down on potential hiccups. Dr. Wisdom Teeth offers PRF without charging extra, so you're getting VIP treatment at no additional cost. Fast healing, fewer problems— what’s not to like?
Recovery HackWhat It DoesPRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin)Quicker healing, less complications
What sets places like Dr. Wisdom Teeth apart? They make sure you're comfy and well-informed through effective communication. Oh, and they’re bilingual, rocking both Spanish and English, so no one's left out in the dark.
Helpful Programs
Let's talk about how to handle the price tag and logistics of getting your wisdom teeth out. Some clinics, like Dr. Wisdom Teeth, roll out the red carpet with things like patient referral programs. Imagine getting free movie tickets just for bringing a friend along— a fun perk that makes the whole process a bit sweeter.
Worried about cost? There are plenty of ways to make it easier on your wallet. Many places offer flexible payment plans and financing, so you're not breaking the bank. Check out our articles on payment plans for wisdom teeth removal and how to find payment plans for wisdom teeth removal for the full scoop.
If you're concerned about affordability, especially in Utah, we've got a go-to guide on how to get affordable wisdom teeth removal in Utah. It's also smart to see if your insurance covers the procedure. Find out more by visiting our guides on how much insurance covers for wisdom teeth removal.
With Dr. Wisdom Teeth boasting over 200,000 successful procedures and sky-high satisfaction ratings, you can bet you'll get top-notch care and support throughout the process.
Ready to make wisdom teeth removal a breeze? Dr. Wisdom Teeth has got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.
Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!
"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."
— Aristotle, The History of Animals.
Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?
Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.
What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?
The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.
Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?
No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!
Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?
Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.
What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.
Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?
Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.
Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?
Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.
Will I experience pain during or after the removal?
The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.
What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?
In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.
What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?
Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!
When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?
This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!
What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?
If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.
What can be done to prevent a dry socket?
We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.
Where are you located?
We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
What are your hours?
We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.
Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
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