Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Alice, TX
Removing Unnecessary Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last molars or "third molars" that develop on each side of the jaws. They usually emerge in the back of the mouth between the ages of 16-20, and they are a valuable asset to the mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned. However, many dental patients experience serious complications as a result of these additional teeth. This is why we are pleased to provide wisdom tooth extractions in our Alice, TX dental office. If you or your teenager needs help to diagnose and remove these teeth, call us today.
Why Choose Advanced Dental Care of South Texas for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Different Types of Sedation Available
- Team That Simply Cares About You
- Comfortable, State-of-the-Art Facility
When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Really Necessary?
When the jaw isn't large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they can become impacted (unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom teeth may grow sideways, emerge only partway through the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. In these cases, it is necessary that our team remove the teeth to prevent further damage to your smile. Infections, cysts, and damage to nearby healthy tooth structures can be a reality, but with the appropriate treatment, your oral health can remain unaffected.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Once your wisdom teeth are removed, you’ll be instructed to return home and get plenty of rest. Because the anesthetic will take time to wear off, you’ll need someone to escort you from your appointment. It is recommended that you take a pain reliever before the anesthesia wears off so that your discomfort will be minimal. You can also opt to use an ice pack in 20-minute intervals.
A liquid diet will be necessary for the first few days; however, you can transition to softer foods after the second day. This process will continue until your mouth feels less uncomfortable and capable of chewing.
You should be mindful of maintaining your oral health during this time and avoiding the use of a straw. Sipping, spitting, or vigorous rinsing can cause a dry socket to form and cause serious pain as well as increase the risk of infection.
Understanding the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Your third molars, also known as your “wisdom teeth,” usually erupt sometime between the ages of 16 and 25. They may have been useful to our distant ancestors, but many people today don’t have enough room in their mouths to accommodate them. If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, you may be wondering what the bill will look like. During your consultation with us, we can discuss specific details about the cost of your treatment. Until then, here are some things to consider.
Factors That Can Impact the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
The cost of your procedure will be based on several different factors. Here are the most prominent:
- Number of Teeth: Not everyone develops all four wisdom teeth. Some people only have one, two, or three of them.
- Complexity: Impacted wisdom teeth often require surgical intervention. Ultimately, the more complex the procedure, the higher the cost.
- Sedation: Depending on whether you need a simple or surgical wisdom tooth extraction, you may also need anesthesia or sedation. This can include a separate cost.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
Most dental insurance plans will cover at least part of the cost of your wisdom tooth extractions. However, this will depend on a few different things, like whether you have met your deductible or maximum for the year. The best way to learn about your specific benefits is to contact your insurance provider directly. If you have any questions regarding your insurance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Other Options for Making Wisdom Tooth Extractions Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, you aren’t completely out of luck. We work with CareCredit – a third-party financing company that can split the cost of your treatment into manageable monthly installments with little to no interest. To learn more about your financial options, don’t hesitate to speak with one of our friendly team members.
To learn exactly how much you can expect your wisdom tooth extraction to cost, schedule a consultation with us. We are happy to help you work towards a healthy smile!