Wisdom Teeth Removal… 

The length of wisdom tooth removal varies based on several factors, including the number of teeth involved, their position (erupted or partially/fully impacted), and any potential complications. At Today Dental of Saginaw, a straightforward extraction of four wisdom teeth usually takes about 30 minutes, not including preparation and recovery time. However, if the teeth are impacted or positioned horizontally, the procedure may take longer.

It's important to understand that the total time spent at the dental office encompasses pre-operative preparations (consultation, x-rays), anesthesia or sedation administration, the extraction itself, and post-operative monitoring. During your pre-operative consultation, your dentist or oral surgeon can provide a more specific estimate based on your individual case.

The cost of wisdom tooth removal can vary considerably depending on the complexity of the extraction, the type of anesthesia or sedation used, and the teeth's position within the jawbone. At Today Dental, an average cost for four wisdom tooth extractions, including IV sedation, can range from $1,400 to $2,400. To get an accurate and transparent cost estimate with no hidden fees, schedule a free consultation with our Saginaw dentist.

During your first visit, we'll thoroughly review your medical history and discuss the wisdom teeth removal process in detail. We'll take x-rays to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth and develop a personalized treatment plan outlining the costs, timeline, and procedure steps. Additionally, we'll happily answer any questions you have.

Before the extraction, we'll ensure a comfortable experience by administering local anesthesia, and in most cases, IV sedation, to minimize pain. Once numb and/or sedated, the extractions will involve carefully removing the wisdom teeth. Following the procedure, gauze will be placed at the extraction sites to control bleeding, and you'll receive detailed post-operative care instructions. The entire process, including preparation and recovery time, typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

Following wisdom teeth removal, it's normal to experience post-operative effects like swelling and mild discomfort for 5-7 days. In most cases, pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort. Applying an ice pack to your face can help reduce swelling, and initial bleeding can be controlled with gauze pads. At Today Dental, we often administer medications through your IV during the procedure to address post-operative swelling and pain. Additionally, we'll provide detailed post-operative care instructions covering dietary restrictions, proper oral hygiene practices, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns. Remember, start with soft foods and liquids initially, gradually transitioning to a normal diet as healing progresses.

The decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on various factors and is typically made after a thorough examination by your dentist at Today Dental of Saginaw. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, may need removal if they cause issues like impaction, crowding, pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth. Even if your wisdom teeth aren't causing immediate problems, we may recommend removal to prevent potential future complications, which is quite common.

We encourage you to schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist to discuss your specific situation and determine the best course of action for your wisdom teeth.