Symptoms to Watch Out For
The third set of molars, known as wisdom teeth, are the last permanent teeth to develop. They are located at the very back of the mouth, behind the second molars on both the upper and lower jaws. Wisdom teeth generally erupt during the late teen years or early twenties, although this can vary. Some people may experience earlier or later development, while others never grow wisdom teeth at all. While these teeth can sometimes emerge without immediate issues, there are many situations where removal becomes necessary.
- They may grow at an angle or become lodged against neighbouring teeth.
- Limited space in the jaw can lead to crowding, which may result in discomfort or other problems.
- Misaligned wisdom teeth can trap debris or be difficult to clean, increasing the risk of decay.
- Impacted wisdom teeth are more likely to develop infections and related complications.
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
Depending on the complexity of the case, wisdom teeth can be removed through a straightforward procedure by your dentist or a more involved surgical process performed by an oral surgeon. After assessing your situation, your dentist will advise you on the best approach. You may choose to have all four wisdom teeth extracted at once or spread the removals over multiple appointments.
Examining Your Teeth
Before scheduling the procedure, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your teeth and jaw. X-rays will be taken to examine the position of your wisdom teeth and the structure of the roots. This helps us determine whether removal is necessary, whether a simple extraction is sufficient, or if a surgical approach is required. We want to ensure the process is as smooth as possible, with no unexpected surprises.
The Removal Process
During your initial consultation, we’ll provide detailed information about the procedure and how to prepare. Based on your preferences and your dentist’s recommendations, local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia will be used to ensure your comfort. Using minimally invasive techniques, we aim to make the extraction process gentle and straightforward for a smooth recovery.
Aftercare
We may recommend bringing a friend or family member to the appointment to accompany you home and assist you during your recovery period. You’ll receive comprehensive aftercare instructions, including practical advice on how to heal quickly and avoid discomfort. Should you have any concerns or questions, our team is always here to help—don’t hesitate to reach out.
Cost of a Wisdom Tooth Removal in Oakville
The price of having your wisdom teeth removed can vary significantly. For those with insurance, the out-of-pocket cost for a simple single-tooth extraction is typically between $100 and $200 or more. Without insurance, the cost generally ranges from $200 to $600 or higher per tooth.
Providing an exact estimate for wisdom tooth removal online or over the phone is challenging because the procedure must be tailored to your individual needs, which can only be assessed after a comprehensive oral examination. To give you an idea, here are the two primary categories of wisdom tooth extractions and their associated costs:
Simple Tooth Extraction
This type of extraction is performed on a wisdom tooth that has fully erupted and is visible in the mouth. A general dentist can carry out this straightforward procedure using local anaesthesia. Simple extractions are less complicated and therefore more affordable if the tooth can be removed quickly and easily.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
Surgical extractions are more intricate and are required for wisdom teeth that are impacted, partially erupted, have unusual root formations, or are positioned in a way that interferes with the neighbouring second molar. These procedures demand thorough preparation, specialised techniques, and significant skill, which contributes to their higher cost.
It’s important to note that dental practices cannot provide an exact quote over the phone due to the complexity of these procedures and the individual nature of each case. Consulting with a dentist for a full evaluation is the best way to explore your options and receive a detailed treatment plan.
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 assume wisdom teeth removal is inevitable, these teeth only need to be extracted if they cause problems such as impaction or interfere with the alignment of your jaw and other teeth.
Modern dentistry focuses on patient comfort, and we use advanced tools and techniques to minimise pain and ensure a smooth experience. These methods allow us to perform the procedure efficiently and gently, promoting faster healing. You’ll also receive detailed aftercare instructions to help you recover comfortably.
You can remove the gauze from your mouth about an hour after the procedure and have something to eat. It’s important to stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours and avoid hot foods or using straws for several hours to protect the healing site.
We’ll provide personalised aftercare instructions at your appointment. In general, here are some tips to reduce complications and support a quick recovery:
- Avoid spitting, rinsing your mouth, blowing your nose, smoking, or using straws for the first 24 hours.
- Refrain from touching the extraction site with your tongue or fingers.
- Steer clear of hot foods and drinks.
- Avoid aspirin, as it can prevent proper blood clotting.
- Limit physical activities and exercise.
Plan to rest or take it easy for about three to four days after your procedure. Resting helps reduce the risk of complications and aids healing. Full recovery typically takes about two weeks, though most discomfort will subside well before that.