Symptoms to Watch Out For
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of permanent adult teeth to emerge. They typically appear in the late teens to mid-twenties, though some people get them earlier, later, or not at all. These teeth grow at the back of the mouth, behind the second molars. While some wisdom teeth erupt without issue, there are many cases where removal becomes necessary to prevent complications.
- Crooked Eruption: Wisdom teeth may come in at an angle, pushing against neighbouring teeth.
- Lack of Space: Insufficient room in the jaw can lead to crowding, which may be painful and problematic.
- Trapped Food: Improperly positioned wisdom teeth can trap food particles or be difficult to clean, increasing the risk of decay.
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth that fail to fully erupt (impacted teeth) are more prone to infections and other complications.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
If you notice discomfort or suspect issues with your wisdom teeth, consult your dentist to determine the best course of action.
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
Wisdom teeth can either be easily extracted by your dentist or may require a surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon. After a thorough examination, your dentist will determine the type of extraction that’s right for you. You may opt to have all four teeth removed at once or spread the extractions across multiple appointments.
Examining Your Teeth
Before scheduling your extraction, your dentist will take X-rays and carefully assess your teeth and jaw. This step helps evaluate how your wisdom teeth are developing and the structure of their roots. The information gathered determines whether a simple extraction or a surgical procedure is needed. We aim to ensure there are no surprises during the process.
The Removal Process
At your initial exam, we’ll explain the procedure in detail and provide guidance on how to prepare. Depending on your preferences and the dentist’s recommendation, local freezing, sedation, or general anesthesia will be used to ensure your comfort. Using minimally invasive techniques, we’ll extract the teeth as gently as possible to promote a smooth recovery.
Aftercare
Following your procedure, we recommend having a friend or family member accompany you to the appointment and drive you home afterward. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including tips on what to do and avoid to ensure a quick and comfortable recovery. If you have any additional questions or concerns during your healing process, our team is always here to assist you.
Cost of a Wisdom Tooth Removal in Napanee
The cost to remove wisdom teeth can vary significantly. With a typical insurance plan, a simple single-tooth extraction generally costs around $100 to $200+ out of pocket. Without insurance, you can expect to pay approximately $200 to $600+ per tooth for a simple extraction.
It’s challenging to provide an exact quote online or over the phone because your treatment plan must be customized to your needs, which can only be determined after an oral exam. Wisdom tooth removal typically falls into two categories that help explain potential costs:
Simple Tooth Extraction
This type of extraction is performed on a wisdom tooth that is fully erupted (visible in the mouth) and free of complications. These procedures are usually done by a general dentist with local anesthesia. If the tooth can be removed quickly and easily, the cost will be lower.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
A surgical extraction is necessary for more complex cases, such as when a wisdom tooth hasn’t fully erupted, is impacted, has a challenging root structure, or is positioned awkwardly against the second molar. This type of procedure requires greater expertise and care, resulting in higher costs.
No dental practice can provide an exact quote over the phone due to the complexity and variability of these procedures. Every case is different, so it’s important to consult with a dentist who can evaluate your unique situation and offer tailored treatment options.
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
While many people consider wisdom teeth removal a standard procedure, it is only necessary if the teeth become impacted, cause discomfort, or interfere with your jaw and other teeth.
Modern dentistry prioritizes patient comfort. We use advanced tools and techniques to minimize discomfort, work efficiently, and reduce trauma to promote faster healing. After the procedure, you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
You can eat about an hour after your procedure once you remove the gauze sponges from your mouth. Start with soft foods for the first 24 hours and avoid hot foods or using a straw for several hours to prevent complications.
We will provide personalized aftercare instructions during your appointment. General guidelines include:
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, blowing your nose, using a straw, or smoking for the first 24 hours.
- Refrain from touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue.
- Avoid hot foods and drinks.
- Do not take aspirin, as it can inhibit blood clotting.
- Limit physical activities and exercise to allow your body to heal.
Plan for three to four days of rest or light activity following your procedure to reduce the risk of complications. Full recovery typically takes around two weeks, though discomfort is usually minimal during this time.