Due to the evolution of the human body and changes to our diet and structure of our mouths, most people will have their wisdom teeth removed for oral health reasons.
The human mouth is now smaller and often can no longer accommodate the 3rd or final set of molars. The molars generally appear in your late teens or early twenties. Many times, these teeth may be misaligned causing dental health issues. Overcrowding by wisdom teeth, may lead to bite issues, shifting teeth, jaw pain, earaches and headaches, bad breath and bacterial infections of the gum line. Many dentists will recommend extracting the teeth during the teen years to avoid more serious dental problems later.
The cost or extracting wisdom teeth becomes a concern, because you are usually dealing with 4 extractions, not a single tooth. Consulting your dentist to evaluate your needs, consulting your dental insurance if that is an option, and schedule a best time for your treatment and budget.
Here is a national average cost breakdown for Wisdom Tooth Extractions:
Simple Extraction- Extraction done in the dental office, local anesthesia, minimally invasive. Cost $75-$200 per tooth or $300-$1000 for 4 extractions.
Impacted Extraction-More extension since the tooth is not totally erupted may require general anesthesia. Cost $225-$600 per tooth or $1000-$3000 per 4 extractions. Often performed by an oral surgeon.
Additional Costs- Panoramic X-rays, Sedation & Exam fees may or may not be included with the extraction fees. Cost $50-$900.
If you have dental insurance it is important to consult with your insurance and dentist to confirm what is covered.
Why Removal is the Best Course for You
Since removal of wisdom teeth is quite an investment, if it is recommended by your dentist it is a very wise investment. Ignoring signs of overcrowding teeth or minor gum inflammation may lead to more significant dental issues as you age. Extraction of 4 teeth is a little scary, however risks are minimal and patients typically experience minor discomfort the first 24 hrs and fully recover in 3-4 days.
Wisdom Teeth removal benefits far outweigh the cost, because caring for your teeth and gums leads to improved oral health which benefits your overall health!
If you are experiencing any dental issues, give us a call at 609-799-4422. We at Plainsboro Dental Care are happy to schedule a consultation appoint to evaluate your dental needs.