Got wisdom teeth?

Most teenagers and young adults experience the arrival of the third molars, or wisdom teeth, between the ages of 14 and 25.  While not all wisdom teeth must be removed, those which are causing problems or likely to cause problems are often recommended for extraction.  Some of the most common reasons for extraction of wisdom teeth are:

• Chronic infection of the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth
• Malpositioned or impacted wisdom teeth
• Cysts, tumors or other pathology forming around the wisdom teeth
• Dental crowding or prevention of orthodontic relapse following braces
• Wisdom tooth decay or gum disease

Your dentist or orthodontist may recommend evaluation of the wisdom teeth by an oral surgeon in order to determine if they must be removed.  Because the “age of wisdom” falls during the school ages, it is common for dental patients to have the oral surgery evaluation and any needed treatment performed during the summer, when it is less likely to interfere with school or sports.  It is important to consider treatment of symptomatic or pathologic wisdom teeth when it is recommended, and plan for the treatment on a timeline that works best with your schedule.

What To Expect With Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Wisdom teeth removal is considered minor surgery, and should be planned for taking into consideration all preparations and accommodations necessary in order to make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.

• Plan to see the oral surgeon for consultation in order to receive all needed information and answers to any questions you may have
• Schedule your procedure when you will be able to take 1-3 days to recover at home
• Do not plan air travel or water sports during the week following your procedure
• Expect to be on a softer diet for a few days following treatment
• If you participate in any sports, exercise regimens or play a woodwind instrument, discuss this activity with your surgeon at your consultation
• Most patients experience post-operative discomfort that is easily controlled with over the counter medications such as Advil or Aleve.  You may require prescription pain medications during the first 1-2 days following your procedure.
• General Anesthesia is usually used during wisdom teeth removal.  This makes the procedure easy and comfortable for the patient. Most patients wake up after surgery feeling very relaxed and comfortable.
• A complete medical history is required, and will be reviewed with you during consultation.  If you have any medical conditions, take medications or drugs, it is extremely important that you discuss this with your surgeon beforehand
• Follow all pre and post-operative instructions in order to ensure the best experience possible.

The Cost of Wisdom Teeth Surgery

One big concern for patients who have had wisdom tooth removal recommended to them is the cost of surgery.  While all patients want to do the best thing to help keep their mouth healthy, financial concerns do have an influence on the decision to proceed with needed treatment.  Your Dallas oral surgeons at Texas Wisdom Teeth and Dental Implants know that the cost of oral surgery can be hard on a family.  That is why every effort is made to utilize resources that can help with the cost of wisdom teeth removal.

• Maximizing dental insurance coverage- your business office representative understands dental insurance, and can help navigate the coverage requirements in order to help maximize the participation of your insurance plan
• Utilizing HSA and medical flex benefits- most oral surgery is eligible for reimbursement under these employer sponsored plans
• Interest Free Financing- healthcare credit companies such as Care Credit and Springstone Financial make it possible to budget for the cost of wisdom teeth extraction with low monthly payments and no interest charges if paid within 6 months.
• No Insurance?  Special cash discounts for private-pay patients are available at Texas Wisdom Teeth and Dental Implants.  Using this special, you can save almost half the usual cost of wisdom teeth surgery.
• FREE Consultation and panoramic x-ray- You can download a coupon for free consultation and x-ray here.

For more information on wisdom teeth symptoms and problems, click here.  If you need to schedule a consultation, or want information about your dental insurance coverage, give us a call at 972-960-1111.