Wisdom Teeth Removal
Address Potential Problems Before They Start
Are your wisdom teeth causing pain, crowding, or impacting your oral health? Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of molars to erupt, typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Often, there isn't enough room in the mouth for them to emerge properly, leading to a range of potential problems. At Ethos Dental Studio in British Columbia, we offer professional wisdom tooth removal to prevent complications and maintain your long-term oral well-being.
How Wisdom Teeth Removal Works
The process of wisdom tooth removal is a common surgical procedure performed to extract one or more third molars. The approach varies depending on the tooth's position and stage of eruption:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays, to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth, identify any potential impaction, and assess their impact on adjacent teeth and surrounding structures.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the surgical area, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free experience during the procedure. Sedation options are also available for anxious patients.
- Extraction: For fully erupted teeth, the extraction may be as straightforward as a regular tooth extraction. For impacted teeth (those trapped beneath the gum line or bone), a small incision in the gum tissue or removal of some bone might be necessary to access and extract the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be divided into smaller sections for easier removal.
- Suturing and Gauze: After the tooth is removed, the site is cleaned, and sutures (stitches) may be used to help the gum tissue heal. Gauze is placed to control bleeding.
- Post-Operative Instructions: You will receive detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction site, manage discomfort, and promote proper healing.
Our team ensures a smooth and comfortable experience, prioritizing your safety and recovery.
✦ Benefits
Alleviates Pain and Discomfort: Removing problematic wisdom teeth can eliminate chronic pain, jaw soreness, and discomfort caused by impaction or pressure on other teeth.
Prevents Crowding and Alignment Issues: Extraction can prevent wisdom teeth from pushing against existing teeth, which might lead to crookedness, misalignment, or damage to orthodontic work.
Reduces Risk of Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and can trap food and bacteria, leading to infections (pericoronitis), cysts, or abscesses. Removal significantly lowers these risks.
Protects Adjacent Teeth: Problematic wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the neighboring second molars, potentially causing damage, decay, or root resorption to healthy teeth.
Improves Overall Oral Hygiene: By removing hard-to-reach wisdom teeth, it becomes easier to effectively brush and floss the back of your mouth, contributing to better overall oral hygiene.
Long-Term Health Benefits: Proactive removal of wisdom teeth can avert more serious complications down the line, saving you from future discomfort, extensive treatments, and higher costs.
Understanding The Cost Of Wisdom Teeth Removal
The cost of wisdom tooth removal is an investment in preventing significant oral health issues and ensuring your long-term well-being. At Ethos Dental Studio, we believe in transparent pricing.
The cost for Wisdom Tooth Removal typically ranges from $250 - $750 per tooth, depending on whether the tooth is erupted, partially impacted, or fully impacted. Surgical extractions requiring more complex procedures or sedation will be at the higher end of the range.
Factors Influencing the Cost:
- Impaction Level: Fully impacted teeth (below the gum line or bone) are more complex to remove and generally cost more than fully erupted teeth.
- Number of Teeth: The total cost will increase based on how many wisdom teeth are removed.
- Anesthesia/Sedation: The type of anesthesia or sedation chosen (e.g., local anesthetic, nitrous oxide, IV sedation) will impact the overall fee.
- Complexity of the Case: Factors like the tooth's angulation, root structure, and proximity to nerves can influence the procedure's difficulty and cost.
Regarding insurance coverage for wisdom tooth removal, these procedures are frequently covered by dental insurance, especially when deemed medically necessary due to impaction, pain, or infection risk. The percentage of coverage can vary based on your specific plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits. Our team is here to assist you with any insurance inquiries and help you maximize your benefits.
During your consultation, we will conduct a thorough assessment, discuss the best course of action for your wisdom teeth, and provide a clear estimate of the costs involved, ensuring you have all the information you need.
Why Choose Ethos
For Wisdom Teeth Removal
FAQs
You have questions. We have answers. Don't see what you need here? Contact us anytime to get your specific questions answered.
How long is recovery after wisdom tooth removal?
Recovery time varies, but most people feel significantly better within 3-7 days. Full healing of the socket can take several weeks. Following post-operative instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery.
Will I be in pain during the procedure?
No, the procedure itself is not painful as local anesthesia will be used to numb the area. You might feel some pressure or movement, but no sharp pain. We also offer sedation options for added comfort.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
For the first few days, stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as tolerated. Avoid straws and hot liquids for the first 24-48 hours.
When can I return to normal activity?
Most people can return to light activities after 24-48 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 3-7 days to prevent dislodging the blood clot and ensure proper healing.
