Introduction

You’ve reached that point in life where your wisdom teeth are making a grand entrance, and let’s be real, they might not be the welcome party you were hoping for. Wisdom teeth removal is a common rite of passage for many of us. It’s like those pesky third molars decide to show up uninvited, causing a bit of a dental commotion. Don’t worry – we’ve all been there or will be soon! So, let’s understand wisdom teeth removal in general and figure out the factors that affect its cost.

What is Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Wisdom tooth removal, also known as wisdom tooth extraction, is a common dental procedure aimed at maintaining your oral health and safeguarding your other teeth from potential future issues.

Your wisdom teeth, scientifically called third molars, are situated at the far back of your mouth. Typically making their appearance between the ages of 17 and 25, these molars were once useful for our ancestors to crush and chew raw leaves, nuts, roots, and meat. However, as our eating habits evolved to include more cooked food and the use of utensils, the need for wisdom teeth diminished. Nowadays, these teeth are considered vestigial structures, no longer essential for our dietary habits.

Reasons to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Often, dentists suggest removing wisdom teeth as a preventive measure. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, your dentist might recommend wisdom teeth extraction to lower the risk of future issues, like infection and tooth decay. Following are a few reasons you might have to remove your wisdom teeth:

• One or more of your wisdom teeth are stuck in your gums or jawbone, either partially or fully
• Your wisdom teeth are growing in a crooked or sideways manner
• You experience pain at the back of your mouth
• Debris and food particles accumulate around your wisdom teeth
• Gum disease develops, especially around your molars
• A partially erupted wisdom tooth has cavities (tooth decay)
• A fluid-filled sac (cyst) forms around one or more wisdom teeth
• Nearby teeth or the surrounding bone are damaged

Break Down of the Process of Removing Wisdom Teeth

Generally, this process takes about an hour or less. On the day of your wisdom teeth extraction, the following process will be done by a dentist or dental surgeon.

1. Anaesthesia or sedative medications will be given to numb your teeth and gums.
2. Cuts will be made in your gums to uncover teeth stuck in your gums or jawbone.
3. Your surgeon will gently loosen and lift your wisdom tooth from its spot. Sometimes, they may need to divide it for easier removal.
4. The area will then be cleaned carefully to prevent infection.
5. Stitches will be used to close the surgical site if required.
6. A gauze will be placed over the sockets to slow down bleeding.

Factors Influencing Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost

Wisdom teeth removal costs depend on a variety of factors, some of which are discussed in this section. You will get an idea as to what you should consider to create a budget for the process.

Placement of the Wisdom Tooth

Wisdom teeth are usually stuck in the jawbone. The cost of removing them depends on where they are. Taking out a deep-set impacted wisdom tooth can be more expensive than a fully erupted one that’s closer to the surface. The harder it is to take out, the more it might cost.

Type of Anaesthesia

Taking out wisdom teeth usually involves using local anaesthesia. But sometimes, a patient might need extra help to stay relaxed, and that can be done with Nitrous Oxide Gas or Intravenous Sedation. If they choose sedation or general anaesthesia, it means there will be an extra cost for the anaesthesia, on top of the cost of removing the wisdom teeth.

Dental Surgeon Consultation Fees

When you visit the specialist for wisdom teeth removal, they will carefully examine your oral cavity to assess its condition and your overall oral health. They will determine if the removal of wisdom teeth is necessary. The price for the initial consultation with a dental expert can vary based on factors such as the clinic’s location, the professional’s experience, etc.

Quality of service and location of the clinic

The location and the reputation, quality of the service and expertise of the dental clinic significantly influence the total cost of wisdom teeth removal. Reputable and specialised clinics will charge higher fees for the procedure.

Any Additional Fees

Sometimes, when removing wisdom teeth, there could be extra costs for unexpected issues or emergencies which can include extra procedures.

With consideration of all the above factors, the wisdom teeth removal cost in Perth can vary anywhere between $200 to $400 per tooth.

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth removal is a common step for many, aimed at ensuring a healthier and happier smile. It’s a routine procedure to tackle potential issues and prevent future dental problems. If you’re considering this, places like Ashburton Dental Centre in Perth are here to make the process smooth, ensuring you leave with a brighter and more confident smile!