How Much Does Tooth Extraction Cost?
While it can be upsetting news to hear from your dentist, getting your wisdom teeth extracted can be a smart long-term decision. Once the news sets in that you need to get your wisdom teeth removed, you may be wondering what the cost of a tooth extraction is. There are a number of factors that play into how much a tooth extraction procedure will cost.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Your third set of molars are commonly called your wisdom teeth. This set of molars does not come in until adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 22. Over time, evolution has caused our mouths and jaws to change and become smaller, and wisdom teeth no longer serve an important purpose. Their lack of utility is one of the reasons why many adults have their wisdom teeth removed.
Why Remove Wisdom teeth?
At the point at which they come in, wisdom teeth can become problematic and increase your risk of infection, tooth decay, or other issues. For some, wisdom teeth grow in fully and are properly aligned creating very few problems. However, for many this is not the case.
- They are impacted: Sometimes wisdom teeth are trapped by the gums and bones and do not completely break through the gum tissue. If wisdom teeth are impacted or partially impacted it can create bacteria to collect around the tooth and may lead to infection. In worse case scenarios, tumors can develop due to the impacted teeth.
- Frequent cavities: Because of their positioning at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be hard to keep clean and cavities can easily develop. Cavities in the wisdom teeth can be difficult to fix and lead to decay.
- Decay or gum issues: Beyond just the problem of the wisdom teeth themselves, the decay can impact the adjacent teeth.
- Shifting and alignment: For many the biggest issue with wisdom teeth coming in is the potential for causing issues with the alignment of their bite. Wisdom teeth are large and can push against nearby teeth causing shifting of teeth and changes to bite.
The Cost of Tooth Extraction
Wisdom teeth extractions should be performed by an oral surgeon. Additional training beyond dental school is required for oral surgeons. In general, the cost of a tooth extraction can range anywhere between $100 and $400 per tooth. If the wisdom teeth are partially or fully impacted, the costs may be significantly higher. There are many factors that can impact the costs of tooth extraction, including geographic region, expertise of the oral surgeon, and the amount of anesthesia required for the procedure. Having your wisdom teeth removed will not impact the look or function of your smile, but will also help you minimize adverse risks. The cost of the procedure should not stop you from having your teeth extracted, especially if it is recommended by your dentist. The good news is the procedure can be considered a prophylactic procedure and dental or medical insurance can help cover some or all of the costs.
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