Extracting wisdom teeth is a common procedure that every dental practitioner encounters. A great portion of the population is challenged by the costs that accompany this procedure – and the absence of dental insurance makes the situation worse. So, how much does it cost to remove wisdom teeth without insurance? This scenario is commonplace and there is a great variation in cost based on the type of extraction, the practitioner, location, and the need for anesthesia.
The following content will outline all necessary details pertaining to the costs of wisdom teeth removal and extraction without insurance, the factors that influence the pricing, and how to save the most money, along with the details of the procedure and the expected aftercare.
Why Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
The last teeth to emerge in one mouth are the wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars. They emerge roughly between the ages of 17 to 25. A person suffers no pain when wisdom teeth grow in for the first time, while the rest of the population will have to deal with teeth that are impacted.
Common reasons for having wisdom teeth removed include:
- Pain and swelling of the gums
- Infections due to trapped food and bacteria
- Angled teeth pushing against other teeth
- Nearby teeth or jawbone being damaged
- Tooth cysts
Impacted wisdom teeth lead to other dental issues if not addressed and that is the reason dentists recommend removal of wisdom teeth before any symptoms develop.
Average Cost of professionally removing wisdom teeth without insurance
The removal of wisdom teeth is based on whether it is surgical or simple. Below is the average costs of the procedure without insurance:
Removal of single tooth via simple procedure: $75 to $250
Removal surgical tooth that is impacted: $225 to $600
Removal of four wisdom teeth: $1000 to $3000
There are more costs that cover:
- X rays: $75 to $200
- Initial Consultation: $100 to $150
- Some form of sedation to anesthesia: $250 to $1,000
Namely, if all four wisdom teeth are removed the costs would be averagely ranged from $1200 to $3500 dollars.
Guidelines That Influence the Cost
There are multiple factors that determine the amount one pays for wisdom teeth removal without any form of insurance coverage.
Type of extraction
In cases of simple extraction the patient pays less since the dentist just needs to pull the tooth out. Surgical extractions take longer since they involve cutting the gum and/or removing bone.
Number of teeth removed
The price charged to remove one tooth is approximately $50. It is significantly lower than the price charged to remove all 4 teeth at the same time.
Geographic location
In large metropolitan areas, dental procedures are significantly more expensive relative to smaller towns and rural areas.
Experience of the dentist or oral surgeon
Specialized professionals charge more than general practitioners.
Type of anesthesia
Local anesthesia is cheaper than sedation or general anesthesia.
Additional treatments
If the dentist finds any cysts or infection, extra care is required which will also significantly increase the overall amount.
Cost Comparison: Dentist vs Oral Surgeon
While some people are able to have wisdom teeth removed by their general dentist, some do need to visit an oral surgeon, particularly if the dentist points out bond teeth.
- General dentist: simple extraction, average charge is around $200 per tooth.
- Oral surgeon: Appointment with an oral surgeon tends to have a higher price ranging within $250-$600 per tooth, but they are often needed for more complex issues.
For more complex scenarios, it may be more prudent to go with an oral surgeon, even if it might be a bit more expensive.
How to Cut the Costs for Wisdom Teeth Removal If You Have No Insurance
Wisdom teeth removal without dental insurance can be very expensive. The good thing is there are a few options available to keep the costs low:
Dental school students
While students are in a dental school, they are often said to perform procedures at a reduced fee as it is being done under supervision. These students can get almost 50% discounts due to this.
Community health centers
Some dental practices are available at reduced fees for people with lower economic status.
Pay-over-time options
Payment in a single go is often very expensive. Ask the oral surgeon or dentist whether a more friendly payment plan is available.
Discount dental plans
These are membership based plans which offer reduced rates for dental procedures but are not considered insurance.
Research more
It might be a bit tedious, but note the price differences among dental practices available and look for the most affordable options.
How to Prepare Yourself for the Teeth Removal
The procedure to have wisdom teeth removed usually follows the following order.
- Getting x-rays and consultation – The dentist understands from the patient what the issue is, assesses the teeth and conveys which options are available.
- Anesthesia – Local anesthesia numb the area. If you are anxious or require surgical removal, sedation and general anesthesia can be used.
- Extraction – A dentist or oral surgeon extracts the tooth. If the case is surgical, stitches may be necessary.
- Recovery – You may experience mild swelling, pain, or bleeding. The bulk of the population recovers in 3-7 days.
Aftercare Recovery And Costs
In addition to the procedure, you may also have to spend on recovery accessories:
Prescription pain medication: $50
Over-the-counter painkillers: $20
Soft food, ice packs, and gauze: $40
You may require additional visits for dry socket or infection, which increases the total cost.
Is It Worth The Trouble To Save Money On Insurance When Delaying Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Some patients choose to forgo removal of the wisdom teeth because the cost without insurance is unreasonable. Sadly, postponing issues can create worse or costlier problems. If left untreated, impacted teeth can harm surrounding teeth and infections, which leads to increased treatment costs.
Even if it means going to a clinic or school for payment plans, it is better to take on the issue as early as possible.
Conclusion
The cost of wisdom teeth removal without insurance on the patient ends ranges from hundreds of dollars for a single tooth removal to thousands of dollars for full mouth surgical extractions under anesthesia. Albeit the cost might be steep, the consequences of leaving wisdom teeth unattended to might be severe which will cost even more.
The most practical answer for this complexity is cost lower options like dental schools, community dental clinics, etc. It is imperative to discuss with a dentist or oral surgeon on the particular case to ensure the patient gets an accurate picture. Doing wisdom teeth removal on time will save patients a lot of money.
If you are researching how much to pull wisdom teeth without insurance, you might also want to understand related dental expenses such as how much is laughing gas with insurance, since sedation can greatly affect your total cost.
For readers exploring insurance topics beyond dental care, it can also be helpful to learn what is insurance distribution directive, which explains how insurance products are managed and offered in different markets.
FAQs About Pull Wisdom Teeth Without Insurance
What is the cost of removal of one wisdom tooth without insurance?
The fee is anywhere between $500 for a clinical case and is between $750 for an surgical case.
Is it possible to remove all four wisdom teeth at the same time without insurance?
Yes, a lot of people do. It will cost between $3,000 on average out of pocket.
Is getting wisdom teeth removed a covered benefit in most insurances?
It is a dental procedure and most insurances do not cover dental procedures and only a few will offer partial payment if it is medically necessary to do so.
What is the cheapest way to get wisdom teeth removed?
Dental schools and community clinics usually offer the lowest cost options for wisdom teeth removal.
How long is recovery after wisdom teeth removal?
Most people recover within 3 to 7 days, though full healing may take a few weeks depending on the complexity of the extraction.
