Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Pasadena, TX

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars that appear in the back of your mouth. At one point in time, they served an incredibly important purpose – to grind and shred coarse foods; however, as humans evolved and our “hunter-gatherer” mentality decreased to almost being non-existent, these teeth became unnecessary.

Why Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

Somewhere between the ages of 15 to 25 years, most people's third molars begin to erupt through the gumline at the very back of their mouths. However, the modern jaw shape often can't accommodate wisdom teeth, leading to either of two unhealthy conditions: crowding of existing permanent teeth or impaction – the incoming molars get stuck in place.

Crowded teeth can misalign your bite, cause jaw pain, and lead to gum disease, causing dental problems for the rest of your life. Partially erupted wisdom teeth allow bacteria and germs to multiply, leading to infection or cyst formation; tumors may even grow on a trapped wisdom tooth.

Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth may force entry, pushing up in whichever direction they find the most give - sideways, vertically, backward, or forward! They can become stuck while still fully encased in the jawbone (called a bony impaction), or prior to erupting through the gums (called a soft tissue impaction). Such impaction can cause pain, swelling, and infection.

We typically examine our 11- and 12-year-old patients to predict the upcoming developmental positioning of the wisdom teeth, and our doctors here in Pasadena, TX are likely to recommend extraction between 15 and 19 years of age.

How Does the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process Work?

While wisdom teeth extraction in Pasadena may not sound like a lot of fun, it's far better than the typical alternatives. Wisdom teeth extraction is a simple, routine surgical procedure that can usually be performed comfortably in one dental office visit.

Our dentists at Pasadena Family Dentistry have advanced training and experience in extracting partially and fully erupted wisdom teeth. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, we’ll refer you to a trusted oral surgeon for specialized care.

A simple extraction is conducted when the teeth have partially erupted. We will begin by administering local anesthesia before using special tools to gently move the tooth back and forth until it detaches.

During a surgical procedure, an oral surgeon will make an incision into the gums to expose the impacted tooth. Carefully, they will remove the tooth in pieces, so the process is much easier and safer for you.

Aftercare Tips

During your recovery period, there are some tips you should consider:

• Bite down on the gauze pad provided to you and make sure to replace them as often as needed. This will encourage a clot to form.
• Enjoy soft foods for the few days after your procedure but avoid chewing on the side of the extraction.
• Maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
• Make sure to rest and relax.
• Follow any instructions provided by the dentist concerning pain medication or antibiotics.
• Do not suck or sip with a straw, as it can dislodge the clot.
• Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
• Use a cold compress to keep any swelling down.

Understanding the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions

Wisdom teeth cause issues for many patients and having them removed is often the best option. However, the costs associated often present a barrier. At Pasadena Family Dentistry, our team strives to provide clear pricing and affordable care, ensuring that you receive the best treatment when you need it the most. Whether you're removing a single tooth or several, our expert dental team will work with you to create a personalized plan that fits your budget. If you want to learn more about factors that can affect the cost of your procedure, read more below.

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Factors That Can Impact the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions

There are several factors that can affect the cost of your wisdom tooth extractions, such as:

• The Number of Teeth Extracted: Removing multiple teeth at once can increase the overall cost, but often results in cost savings compared to separate procedures.
• The Complexity of the Extraction: The position and condition of your wisdom teeth play a significant role in determining cost. Simple extractions are generally less expensive than removing impacted teeth.
• Type of Anesthesia Used: If you’re sensitive to pain or have dental anxiety, oral conscious sedation is an option at our practice. This sedation helps ensure your comfort during the procedure but comes with an additional fee.
• Who Performs Your Surgery: While our practice can perform most simple extractions, impacted wisdom teeth are generally more complicated. In these cases, we may refer you to a specialist which may cost more.

Our team will provide you with a detailed estimate before your procedure, so there are no surprises.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?

Wisdom tooth extractions are often considered a necessary medical procedure, so they may be covered by your dental insurance. Coverage usually includes a percentage of the total cost, depending on your specific plan—usually 50 to 80 percent. However, the exact amount covered can vary based on factors like the type of extraction and your insurance provider. Our team is happy to help you sift through your benefits and maximize your coverage to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Other Options for Making Wisdom Tooth Extractions Affordable

In addition to accepting many dental insurance plans, Pasadena Family Dentistry offers several financing options to help make your wisdom tooth extraction more affordable.

For example, we proudly work with CareCredit and Lending Club! These services allow you to pay for your treatment up-front and then break your costs down into more manageable monthly payments.

In addition, our in-house membership plan provides discounts on various treatments, including extractions, ensuring that quality care is accessible for everyone!