Wisdom Teeth Extractions Medford
Safe & Comfortable Third Molar Removal
The wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to come into the mouth, usually appearing between the ages of 16-25. However, most people don’t have enough room for them. So they become trapped within the gum and bone (impacted) or press on the nearby teeth, which can lead to pain, infection, bone loss, and other unpleasant symptoms. As a board-certified oral surgeon in Medford with significant experience removing wisdom teeth, Dr. Keyser is able to prioritize a patient’s comfort before, during, and after the procedure. If you or your teen is experiencing wisdom teeth woes, there’s no need to wait for relief—call today to schedule an appointment.
Why Choose Greater Boston Oral Surgery & Implant Center for Wisdom Teeth Extractions?
- Highly Skilled Dual Degree (DMD/MD) Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
- Cutting Edge Technology (Latest CT scanner & Anesthesia Equipment) in a Brand New, State-of-the-Art Clinic
- Able to Help Both Adults & Teens
Does My Child Need Wisdom Tooth Removal?
It’s a myth that everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. The truth is that if they come in without issue and fit nicely, we leave them alone. However, extraction is usually recommended if a patient is experiencing the following symptoms:
- Persistent pain and/or swelling in the back of the mouth
- A feeling of pressure on the back teeth
- The bite feels different or “off”
- Cysts or pathology are forming in the area
- The wisdom teeth have created a flap in the gums that is trapping food and bacteria
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process
There are two different approaches Dr. Keyser can take for wisdom tooth extraction based on the situation:
- Simple: If the wisdom teeth have fully erupted, then the extraction is just like it would be for any other tooth. The area is numbed, and then special instruments are used to lift and remove the tooth while causing minimal trauma to the nearby gum and bone.
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Surgical: If the wisdom teeth are partially stuck in the gum and bone, or impacted, then a minor surgery is necessary. With this, any tissue that blocks access to the tooth is moved, and then the tooth is delicately extracted, often in pieces to prevent excessive force on the jaws and to preserve the surrounding anatomy such as the nerves and sinus cavity. The gums are then replaced into their customary position.
What Happens After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
The treatment area(s) will be immediately sutured, and gauze will be placed to control any oozing. The dressing should be replaced as necessary. A patient should relax for the rest of the day following their procedure, as this will allow a blood clot to form and ensure a comfortable healing process.
Some swelling and localized soreness are expected, but these can usually be easily managed with medication. If you’re prescribed anything, be sure to follow Dr. Keyser’s dosage directions for how much to take. It’s recommended to stick to a soft food diet for at least a few days initially, so it’s wise to stock up on items like eggs, soup, yogurt, and oatmeal ahead of the procedure.
Understanding the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth may have been helpful for our early ancestors, but today they seem to do more harm than good. A high percentage of people don’t have enough room in their mouths to accommodate wisdom teeth, so they need to be removed. However, this procedure is often put off due to fear of cost. Everyone’s treatment is a little bit different, so the cost can vary. During your consultation, we will discuss the exact cost of your treatment. Until then, here’s what you should take into consideration.
Factors That Can Impact the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
The cost of wisdom tooth extractions can vary. Here are the main factors that influence this.
- Number of Teeth: Some people don’t develop all four of the wisdom teeth. Others may not need all of them removed. We will examine your smile and determine the best treatment course for you.
- Impaction: If you have wisdom teeth that are impacted, the procedure is more complex. This can lengthen the treatment time, increasing the cost.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
Wisdom tooth extractions are normally considered to be a “major restorative procedure” by dental insurance providers. This means that after your yearly deductible has bene met, and before you have reached your maximum, the procedure is likely to be covered at about 50%. However, this can vary depending on your plan. At Greater Boston Oral Surgery & Implant Center, we are insurance-friendly and accept numerous dental and medical plans.
How to Make Wisdom Tooth Extractions Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, this doesn’t mean that you are completely out of luck. We are happy to accept payments through CareCredit, Cherry, and Proceed. These third-party financing companies can split the cost of your treatment into manageable monthly installments with little to no interest. To learn more about your options, don’t hesitate to give us a call.