How Much Does a Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost?

How much to pull a tooth? Tooth extraction costs can vary based on the type of tooth, location, anesthesia, complexity of the procedure, and your dentist’s expertise. Wisdom teeth removal costs average between $120 to $800 per tooth.

• Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are typically the last teeth to erupt into the mouth around ages 18-20 years old.
• Your wisdom teeth may need to be removed if there is not enough room in the mouth for them or if they are decayed or infected.
• An oral maxillofacial surgeon is a dental specialist who usually performs wisdom teeth extractions.

Factors Influencing Tooth Extraction Costs

• Complexity of the Procedure: Tooth extraction cost is influenced by the complexity of the procedure. Teeth requiring surgical intervention, such as teeth that are covered by your gums and/or jawbone (impacted teeth), cost more than simple extractions.
• Dental insurance: Some dental insurance plans may offer coverage on average up to 50% for wisdom teeth removal when deemed medically necessary.
• Anesthesia Required: Dental anesthesia is used to provide comfort throughout the procedure. The average cost of wisdom teeth removal with anesthesia is higher when nitrous oxide or intravenous sedation is used than traditional local anesthesia.
• Geographical location: The cost of tooth extraction can vary based on the geographical location of the dental office. In general, larger cities may have higher costs associated with wisdom teeth removal than rural areas.
• Dentist’s expertise: A fully erupted tooth can typically be removed by a general dentist through a simple extraction procedure. Teeth that are impacted often cost more as they require a surgical extraction procedure, which is usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The average cost of tooth extraction by oral surgeons is generally higher than extractions performed by general dentists.

Types of Tooth Extractions

Simple extraction

Dental extraction cost for simple extractions is usually less in cost than surgical extractions. Simple extractions refer to the use of non-surgical techniques to remove teeth that are fully erupted in the mouth.

Surgical extraction

This type of extraction requires a more complex procedure and may involve oral sedation. Surgical extraction involves the removal of a tooth that is impacted, meaning it is partially or fully trapped below the gumline. An impacted tooth may be classified as a soft tissue impaction, which indicates that the tooth is not fully erupted through the gums. A hard tissue impaction refers to a tooth that is trapped within both the jawbone and gums.

Average Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal (Third Molar)

Wisdom tooth removal costs with insurance can be drastically different from the average wisdom tooth removal cost without insurance. Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for wisdom teeth removal, which lowers the overall tooth extraction price that you are required to pay out-of-pocket. On average, dental insurance plans provide 70%-80% coverage for simple extractions and 50%-80% for surgical extractions and soft tissue/bone impaction procedures.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Costs by U.S. Region

*Note: Costs are estimates and vary based on specifics of treatment and dental practice. Consult with a dental professional for accurate pricing.

Spotlight on Massachusetts and New Hampshire

*Note: These are more precise estimates for readers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, reflecting factors like local economic conditions and dental service availability.

What are the Aftercare Costs?

• Once your wisdom teeth are removed, your dental professional will go over all post-operative instructions with you and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
• It can be normal to experience mild pain and swelling immediately after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medication like ibuprofen.
• In some cases, your dentist may recommend specific medications to prevent infection, such as antibiotics, which may result in additional out-of-pocket costs.
• You may be recommended to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon, which can have an extra fee.
• Some individuals may need additional procedures following a tooth extraction, such as a bone graft. Bone grafts can range on average between $200-$1,000.

Is there a Way to Reduce Tooth Extraction Costs?

You can reduce your wisdom teeth removal cost by considering the following options:

• Dental insurance: Many insurance plans offer partial coverage for tooth extractions deemed medically necessary. On average, insurance plans cover 50%-80% of the costs of tooth extractions.
• Payment plans: Many dental offices offer monthly payment plans to help break down the overall cost into smaller and more affordable payments.
• Discount dental plans: There are many discount dental plans that require an annual fee in return for discounts on dental treatment within a network of dentists.
• Dental school: Check out a local dental school, which tends to offer dental treatment at a reduced cost. Trained students are supervised by licensed dental professionals.
• Medicaid: Determine if you qualify for your state’s Medicaid, which may include dental benefits.

Book an Appointment With Gentle Dental

It is important not to put off your dental care and wisdom teeth needs. Regular dental check-ups can help identify the condition of your wisdom teeth to determine if extraction is recommended.

Find affordable wisdom tooth extraction from expert dental professionals at Gentle Dental.