Experience Dental Thornton - Thornton

Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Thornton

Modern techniques make wisdom tooth removal quick and comfortable, preventing overcrowding and infection.
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Signs It's Time: When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

The third and final set of molars, known as wisdom teeth, typically emerge behind the second molars during the late teens to mid-twenties. While some people never develop them, others may have them come in earlier or later than expected.

Warning Signs to Look For:Keeping an eye on wisdom teeth as they develop can help identify potential problems early. Here are some signs that extraction may be necessary:

  1. Improper Growth or Impaction: If wisdom teeth grow at an angle or remain stuck under the gums, they can lead to pain and alignment issues.
  2. Overcrowding and Discomfort: A small jaw may not have enough space for additional molars, causing crowding and pressure on surrounding teeth.
  3. Difficult to Keep Clean: When wisdom teeth donโ€™t erupt properly, food and bacteria can get trapped, increasing the likelihood of cavities and gum disease.
  4. Higher Infection Risk: Partially erupted or impacted teeth are more susceptible to infection due to their location and difficulty in maintaining proper hygiene.

When Is Removal Recommended? Wisdom teeth extraction may be necessary if:

  1. They cause persistent pain or discomfort
  2. They push against neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment
  3. They are difficult to clean and prone to decay
  4. They are impacted and at risk of infection

The Road to Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth removal can be a straightforward procedure performed by a dentist or a more involved surgery handled by an oral surgeon. After an evaluation, your dentist will discuss the best approach for your extraction. Depending on your case, all four teeth may be removed at once or spaced out over multiple visits.

Evaluation

A complete assessment of your teeth and jaw is necessary before proceeding with extraction. X-rays will be taken to examine the position of your wisdom teeth and the structure of their roots. This evaluation determines whether removal is needed and whether a simple or surgical approach is required.

Removal

During your consultation, our team will walk you through the procedure and provide instructions on how to prepare. You may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia based on your needs and your dentistโ€™s recommendation. Our priority is to use the least invasive methods possible to ensure a smooth procedure and comfortable experience.

Relief & Aftercare

Itโ€™s best to have someone accompany you to your appointment, drive you home, and assist you during your recovery. You will receive detailed aftercare instructions, including tips to help you heal comfortably and quickly. If you have any questions or concerns, our team is always available for guidance and support.

Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal in Thornton

The price of wisdom tooth extraction varies based on the complexity of the procedure. With insurance, a straightforward removal typically costs between $100 and $200+ out of pocket, whereas without coverage, the cost can range from $200 to $600+ per tooth.

Providing an exact estimate without an evaluation is difficult, as treatment is customized to each patient. However, extractions generally fall into two main categories:

  1. Simple Tooth Extraction: This type of removal is for fully erupted wisdom teeth that donโ€™t present complications. A general dentist performs the procedure using local anesthesia, making it a more budget-friendly option.
  2. Surgical Tooth Extraction: For impacted or more complex cases, surgery is required. This involves a more specialized approach, which increases the overall cost due to the expertise and care needed.

Consulting with a dentist is the best way to determine the exact cost based on your individual needs. A personalized evaluation will help identify the most appropriate and affordable 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

With advancements in anesthesia and surgical techniques, the procedure itself is typically painless. Some swelling and discomfort may occur afterward, but pain can be effectively managed with medication and proper aftercare.

Healing time varies from person to person but generally lasts a few days to a week. Following post-surgery care instructionsโ€”such as resting, applying ice, and avoiding certain foodsโ€”can help speed up the healing process.

Your level of sedation depends on the complexity of the extraction and your preference. You may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, and your dentist will go over the options with you beforehand to ensure your comfort.

If you receive sedation or general anesthesia, itโ€™s best to have someone drive you home and assist you after the procedure. Having support during the initial recovery period can be helpful.

Many dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost if the extraction is medically necessary. Coverage details depend on your specific plan, the reason for the procedure, and any limitations or exclusions in your policy.

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