Not all people have problems with their wisdom teeth. These may either stay or be removed depending on if they are causing pain or a health problem to an individual. As such, it is always recommended to visit the dentist regularly to check on the health status of your teeth and gums. If there is a need for tooth extraction, it comes with a cost. Wisdom teeth removal cost depends mainly on the case and dental procedure. There are reputable dental clinics in Toronto that offer wisdom tooth removal at different costs.
What is Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth erupt at different ages. These can come out during the late teens or early adult life. They are located at the back corners of the mouth which are on the top and bottom. Since the mouth has space for an average of 28 teeth, having 4 wisdom teeth in addition may result in overcrowding. Most of the time, these teeth do not grow properly or in line with the other teeth. This may be due to the proximity of nearby teeth, lack of space or the gum line is misaligned.
When to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Since the growth of wisdom teeth are normal, these do not usually need to be removed. But if your wisdom teeth are causing pain or these have not fully broken through the gum surface, they can cause potential dental problems in the future. At the edge of the wisdom teeth, food and bacteria may be lodged around and cause plaque buildup. This then would lead to conditions such as:
Tooth decay
The damage of the tooth is caused by plaque build up that turns sugars into acid. This can be seen as dental caries or holes in the teeth. Toothache and bad breath are common symptoms if you have tooth decay.
Pericoronitis
Also known as operculitis, this condition is characterized by redness and swelling of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth. This usually happens on the lower wisdom teeth and can be very painful and could also cause bad breath.
Gum disease
A condition where the gums become inflamed and infected. Its early stage is called gingivitis and could further develop into periodontitis. If not treated, jaw bone will eventually get damaged and cause the teeth to fall out due to the small gaps in between the teeth and gum.
Cyst formation
Dentigerous cysts are formed when there is a build up of fluid above the unerupted wisdom tooth. This is common among individuals ages 20 to 30.
Abscess
This is a collection of pus found inside the teeth, gums or bone holding all the teeth. This usually occurs due to bacterial infection. If not treated, it can spread to other parts of the body.
Cellulitis
A bacterial infection found in the tongue, throat or cheek. If not treated immediately, the condition will worsen with the skin being hot, swollen and very painful.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Prior to the scheduled tooth extraction, the dentist needs to assess the status of your wisdom tooth. After examination, you will need a series of X-rays to further check the root structure and position of the wisdom tooth. Your dentist will also let you know if you will need a simple tooth extraction or surgery depending on the extent of the position of the wisdom tooth.
On the day of your appointment, you will either have the following anesthesia administered depending on the case of your wisdom tooth:
Local anesthesia
The dentist will administer local anesthesia through the use of an injection near the extraction site. Before doing this, a topical substance is first applied to numb the gums. With local anesthesia, you will be awake the entire time. No pain is felt during extraction but only some pressure on the extraction site.
Sedation anesthesia
This type of anesthesia is administered by the dentist or oral surgeon via an intravenous line. You will be put to sleep and consciousness is suppressed. During the procedure, there will be no pain experienced.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia is administered to major dental extractions. A surgical team will be closely monitoring vital signs, medication and fluids as you will also lose consciousness during the entire procedure. To relieve postoperative discomfort such as pain, local anesthesia is also administered.
Once ready for wisdom teeth removal, the dentist will proceed to the extraction site. If the wisdom tooth has not erupted above, the dentist will make a small incision on the gum to gain access. If it is too difficult to take out, another technique will be done. A surgical tooth extraction is performed which includes an oral surgeon to facilitate the procedure. Sometimes, the tooth is cut into parts so that it will be easy to let it out from the incision.
During the procedure, you will not feel pain due to anesthesia. The simple extraction takes a few minutes to finish while those with complex cases can take more than 30 minutes. This is case to case basis and is not the same for every patient.
After the wisdom teeth are taken out, those with local anesthesia have a shorter recovery time in the dental chair. Those who had surgical procedures will be brought to a recovery room until consciousness is regained.
It is normal to have bleeding post-procedure and the dentist will advise you to avoid exerting pressure such as spitting. The gauze on the extraction site must also be replaced to prevent infection. With regards to pain, the dentist will give appropriate pain relievers such as acetaminophen or specific medication from the oral surgeon. As to swelling and bruising, it is advised to use an ice pack for relief. Those who just had their wisdom teeth extracted must avoid strenuous activities to let the incision heal well.
For any intake, alcohol, caffeinated and hot beverages are to be avoided during the first 24 hours. Eating soft food is encouraged to avoid pressure on the wound. Spicy food must also be avoided so as not to irritate the wound even more.
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Toronto
The cost to have your wisdom tooth extracted varies depending on different factors. If you have health insurance, the average cost would range from $100 to $200 for a single wisdom tooth extraction. If you do not have any insurance plan, expect the cost to be as high as $200 to $600. Though the total costs vary depending on the treatment plan given by the dentist. You are able to find out the final cost after an oral exam and if your wisdom tooth needs a simple extraction or surgical procedure.
For wisdom teeth surgery, the average total cost may be as high as $1800. This usually covers up to all 4 wisdom teeth while you are unconscious due to sedation. The cost can go higher if the wisdom teeth are severely impacted.
Maintain Good Dental Health
In any situation, it is best to follow good dental hygiene to avoid tooth decay and other oral infections. As the cost of tooth extraction may increase through time, preventing situations that could cause problems is a good thing to do. Though in the case of wisdom teeth, it is unavoidable to possibly have impacted teeth. That is why it is highly encouraged to have a regular dental checkup with a reputable dentist. This will help assess the condition of your teeth if ever you have wisdom teeth that need to be extracted.
With a regular dental checkup, you will find out the current status of your teeth and gums. Never neglect the advice of your dentist or dental surgeon because they will always know what’s best for you.
If you are looking for a trusted dental clinic here in Toronto, you can contact Osmin Denture Clinic & Premier Dental Health & Facial Esthetic Center Inc. at 647-294-3310. We are always ready to help you keep your teeth in their healthiest state as possible.
