When it comes to oral health, our wisdom teeth often top the vanguard of topics discussed. Lately, in Canada, there has been an influx of individuals requiring extensive and costly oral surgeries related to wisdom teeth extraction. If you’re in the same boat, it’s normal to feel unsure about the cost of wisdom tooth removal. In total, you can expect to pay $700 to $1000 to remove your wisdom teeth. After the procedure, a follow-up visit can cost between $50 and $100.
This blog post will unpack all aspects potentially impacting the cost of wisdom tooth extraction in Canada. Through reading this article, you’ll be able to make well-informed decisions about your treatment options before going under a surgical knife.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in Toronto: Is it Worth it?
Wisdom teeth are the final adult set of molars at the back of your mouth. They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, wisdom teeth may not come in until their thirties or not at all. For those who do experience growth, it can cause various issues.
Impacted wisdom teeth occur due to pressure from other teeth, which prevents them from emerging fully or may lead to infection from trapped bacteria in the area. In cases like these, you need a tooth extraction. Wisdom tooth extraction cost depends on a few factors, such as location and insurance coverage.
Common Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure. People remove their wisdom teeth for the following reasons.
- Impacted teeth are one of the main causes of removal, where the teeth become trapped under or within surrounding tissues or bone.
- Another frequent issue is overcrowding, where there may not be enough room for all teeth to fully erupt.
- Cysts and tumours can also form in the area, leading to pain and infection that require attention.
How Much Does it Cost to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Generally speaking, wisdom teeth removal in Ontario averages around $700 to $1000, but cheaper options are available depending on personal circumstances.
- Standard wisdom tooth removal (for one tooth): $200 – $400.
- Complex extractions (if the teeth are impacted and require surgery): $500 -$600.
- Removal of multiple teeth: This can range from $400-$1000, depending on how many teeth need removal.
In Ontario, the cost of wisdom tooth removal consists of various elements:
- Initial consultation fee: This is typically a one-time payment ranging from $100 to $200.
- Anesthetic charges: Depends on the type and duration of anesthetic you use. Clinic bills anesthetic separately (not included in the initial consultation fee) and can range from $100 to $200.
- Surgery fee: This is the main cost of the procedure and can range from $400 -$1000, depending on how complex it is.
- Antibiotic prescription or other medication: Additional fees may be required depending on the patient’s case, ranging from $25 to $50.
- Follow-up visits: These may be necessary after the initial procedure and can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per visit.
Factors that Determine the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal in Ontario
The cost of wisdom tooth removal can vary widely depending on factors such as the situation’s complexity and the type of procedure you require.
Number of Teeth
The total number of wisdom teeth you remove significantly impacts the overall cost. If you have all four wisdom teeth, the procedure will generally be more expensive than removing a single tooth.
Tooth Impaction
The level of impaction plays a crucial role in determining the complexity of the extraction. Impacted wisdom teeth may require more intricate surgical procedures, such as cutting through bone or gum tissue, increasing costs.
Type of Anesthesia
The choice of anesthesia during the procedure can influence tooth extraction costs. Local anesthesia is typically less expensive than general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The level of sedation required depends on factors like your anxiety levels and the complexity of the extraction.
Surgeon’s Expertise and Location
The experience and reputation of the oral surgeon or dentist performing the extraction can impact the cost. Additionally, geographic location can influence prices due to variations in living costs and healthcare expenses.
Dental Insurance Coverage
The extent of dental insurance coverage greatly influences out-of-pocket expenses. Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion or the entire cost of wisdom tooth removal, while others may only cover specific procedures or a percentage of the total cost.
Post-operative Care and Medications
The prescription of post-operative medications and follow-up appointments for monitoring recovery can add to the overall expense. Pain medications, antibiotics, and other necessary prescriptions may incur additional costs.
Complications and Unforeseen Circumstances
If complications arise during the extraction procedure or unforeseen circumstances occur, you may require additional interventions, increasing costs.
Related Article: The Cost of Dental Implants in Toronto: Is it Worth the Investment?
Exploring Different Types of Sedation Used During Wisdom Tooth Removal
Sedation is a general term for using medicine to help people relax during a treatment procedure. For wisdom tooth removal, dentists often administer some type of sedation.
Depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the procedure, you may choose from three types: oral sedatives, inhalational conscious sedation, and general intravenous anesthesia.
- You take oral sedatives orally before the procedure.
- Inhalational conscious sedation requires breathing a gas called nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”) through a mask covering your nose.
- Intravenous general anesthesia is sometimes used if there are complications or other special circumstances where more sophisticated methods of monitoring and controlling pain are necessary.
Sedation can be an important part of a comfortable experience when removing wisdom teeth in Canada. Be sure to explore your options with your dentist to make an informed decision!
Preparing for Your Appointment – What to Expect and Ask Before the Procedure
Preparing for a wisdom tooth removal procedure can be both overwhelming and intimidating. During your appointment, it is important to have open lines of communication with your dentist to fully inform you about all relevant aspects of the operation.
- Firstly, inquire about how long your recovery period will last and what types of pain relief methods or medications you might need after the operation.
- Additionally, request information regarding any restrictions on physical activities or dietary habits following the surgery.
- Another important thing to consider when preparing for wisdom tooth removal is the financial aspect. Make sure to confirm the estimated wisdom teeth removal charges and the timing of payments.
- Confirm possible payment plan options or additional costs that may not be initially included in the estimate.
By asking pertinent questions during your appointment beforehand, you can ensure that you enter your operation with peace of mind and confidence.
Dealing With the Aftermath of Wisdom Teeth Surgery: Recovery Tips, Pain Management and Follow-up Care
After a wisdom tooth extraction, paying attention to your recovery is important. Here’s what you need to do:
- It is recommended to rest as much as possible, reduce physical activity and minimize mouth rinsing on the day of surgery.
- Pain management is key during recovery – use prescribed medication as directed and adjust the dosage according to how effectively it reduces discomfort.
- For the first 24 hours following the surgery, apply ice packs in the extraction area for 30 minutes, then 10 minutes off to reduce the swelling. After 24 hours, discontinue the ice and to help speed up healing, apply heat over the area of the extraction site to relieve pain and swelling, but do not apply heat for more than 10 minutes at a time.
- You should also follow oral hygiene instructions: start brushing your teeth gently after a day or two of recovery, but avoid brushing where the stitches are for about a week.
- Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist after your procedure will ensure your teeth and gums heal properly without any long-term damage or complications from the surgery.
Related Article: What to Eat After Tooth Extraction?
Final Thoughts
Although the cost of wisdom tooth removal in Ontario varies, you should prioritize your safety and choose a reputable practitioner or dental institution. Also, it’s important to heed advice from professionals with experience in this area to save money and ensure your oral health remains intact.
At Osmin Denture Clinic, our dental professionals will discuss your options and help you select the best tooth extraction plan. Whether through preventative treatments or restorative options such as wisdom tooth removal — knowing your options may make all the difference for a healthy smile for years to come.
Contact us at 647-294-3310 today.