Symptoms to Watch Out For
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of permanent adult molars that emerge at the back of the mouth, both on the upper and lower jaws, behind the second molars. Typically, these teeth erupt between the late teens and mid-twenties, although there are variations. Some individuals may experience earlier or later emergence, and some may not develop wisdom teeth at all. While wisdom teeth can sometimes come in without causing immediate issues, there are several reasons why their removal might be necessary.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
- Misalignment or Crowding: Wisdom teeth may emerge at an angle or become impacted against neighbouring teeth, leading to crookedness and discomfort.
- Insufficient Space: A lack of adequate room in the jaw can cause crowding, resulting in pain and potential complications.
- Poor Positioning: When wisdom teeth are positioned incorrectly, they can trap food particles and are difficult to clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
- Infection Risk: Impacted wisdom teeth are more susceptible to infections, making their removal a preventative measure.
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
Wisdom teeth can often be easily extracted by your dentist or may require a standard surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon. After a thorough examination, your dentist will provide detailed information about the type of extraction you’ll need. You may choose to have all four wisdom teeth removed at once or opt for a gradual removal over multiple appointments.
Examining Your Teeth
Before scheduling your extraction, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth and jaw. This includes taking X-rays and carefully assessing how your wisdom teeth are erupting and examining your root structure. This detailed examination helps us determine whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, can be simply extracted, or require surgical intervention. Our goal is to ensure a smooth and predictable extraction process without any unexpected complications.
The Removal Process
During your initial consultation, our team will explain what to expect and how to prepare for the extraction. Based on your preferences and the professional judgement of your dentist, we will administer local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. We employ minimally invasive techniques to remove your wisdom teeth as gently as possible, aiming for a comfortable experience and a swift recovery.
Aftercare
Post-extraction, we may advise you to bring a friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment, assist with transportation home, and stay with you during your initial recovery period. You will receive comprehensive aftercare instructions, including practical tips on what to do and what to avoid to facilitate a quick and comfortable healing process. Should you have any additional questions or concerns, our team is readily available to support you and ensure your recovery goes smoothly.
Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal in Calgary
The expense of having your wisdom teeth extracted in Calgary can vary widely based on several factors. With a typical insurance plan, a simple, single tooth extraction usually costs between $100 and $200 or more out of pocket. For individuals without insurance, the cost generally ranges from approximately $200 to $600 or higher for a simple extraction per tooth.
Providing an exact quote for wisdom tooth removal online or over the phone is challenging because your treatment plan must be customized to your specific needs and can only be determined after a thorough oral examination. Dental extractions generally fall into two broad categories, which can help you understand the potential costs and the reasons behind them:
Simple Tooth Extraction
A simple extraction is performed on a wisdom tooth that has fully erupted (visible in the mouth) without any complications. These procedures can be carried out by a general dentist using local anesthesia. If your wisdom tooth can be removed quickly and easily, the overall cost will be lower.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
A surgical extraction is more complex and involves removing a wisdom tooth that hasn’t fully erupted, has become impacted, has complicated roots, or is adversely positioned in relation to the neighbouring second molar. Surgical extractions require a higher level of consideration, delicate care, and specialized expertise, resulting in a greater cost.
It’s important to remember that no dental practice can provide an accurate cost estimate over the phone, as the procedures are intricate and depend on numerous factors. Each case is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a dentist who will evaluate your individual situation and offer various treatment options to consider. This consultation will ensure you receive a precise quote tailored to your specific dental needs.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many assume that removing wisdom teeth is a standard procedure for everyone. In reality, wisdom teeth should only be extracted if they become impacted or cause issues with your jaw and other teeth.
Modern dentistry prioritizes your comfort. We utilize advanced tools and techniques to minimize discomfort, work efficiently and precisely, and reduce trauma to promote quick healing. Additionally, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure your comfort and facilitate a smooth recovery.
Approximately one hour after the procedure, you can remove the gauze sponges from your mouth and begin eating. It’s important to stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours and avoid hot foods and using straws for several hours to ensure proper healing.
We will give you personalized aftercare instructions during your appointment. Here are some general guidelines to follow after wisdom tooth removal to reduce the risk of complications and support a swift recovery:
- Avoid spitting, mouth rinsing, blowing your nose, using a straw, and smoking within the first 24 hours after the extraction.
- Refrain from touching the extraction site with your finger or tongue.
- Steer clear of hot foods and beverages.
- Do not take aspirin, as it can interfere with blood clotting.
- Limit physical activities and avoid strenuous exercise.
Ideally, you should plan for three to four days of rest or light activities following your wisdom tooth removal. This rest period helps minimize the risk of complications and aids in healing. Full recovery typically takes about two weeks, during which you should experience minimal discomfort.
