Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Fresno, CA

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth as they are popularly known are also referred to as third molars among dental professionals. Considered “wiser” than other teeth because they erupt much later, there are usually four in total; however, some patients may only have one or two push through the gums. It’s also possible that some individuals may not have any wisdom teeth.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Once necessary for early civilizations to maintain a nutrient-rich diet, they made it possible for people to eat dense, coarse foods. However, changes in diet and facial structure now make these teeth obsolete. Unfortunately, they continue to form, only creating problems for narrower mouths.

You can expect that our team will recommend wisdom tooth extraction if:

• The teeth are impacted and pressing against healthy structures
• There is visible decay that exists on the wisdom teeth
• Teeth appear misaligned because wisdom teeth are pushing against them
• Cysts are forming near the affected areas
• Increased pain caused by partially erupting or impacted wisdom teeth

What to Expect From the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

Wisdom teeth that have partially erupted can be removed with a simple procedure. We will use a dental elevator to lift the tooth from its socket before grasping it with dental pliers. Using a back-and-forth motion, the tooth will detach and break free from the underlying ligaments.

Those teeth that remain impacted (beneath the gumline) must be removed with a surgical procedure. A small incision will be created in the gums to expose the tooth and existing bone. Depending on the growth of nearby bone, we may decide to remove the tooth in sections to minimize further irritation or harm.

Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction

It’s important that you allow your mouth to heal properly after wisdom tooth extraction. To do this, you’ll need to:

• Get plenty of rest when returning home from your appointment
• Avoid spitting, smoking, or using a straw
• Avoid strenuous activity for a few days
• Keep your head elevated while you are sleeping
• Stay away from hard and crunchy foods – stick to a soft food diet
• Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed
• Use clean gauze to minimize bleeding

Understanding the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions

The cost of wisdom tooth extractions can vary depending on your specific needs. At Shinkawa Dental, we tailor every treatment plan to you, so you only pay for what you need. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to extraction, so whether you’re removing one tooth or all four, we’ll walk you through the pricing and options upfront. Our goal is to make sure you get the care you need without any surprise costs. 

Factors That Can Impact the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions

No two mouths are alike, which is why pricing can differ from patient to patient. Several key factors influence the total cost of treatment, such as:

• Number of Teeth Removed: Extracting all four wisdom teeth will cost more than just removing one.
• Type of Impaction: If a tooth is partially or fully impacted (trapped in the gums or jawbone), the procedure is more complex and can raise the cost.
• Sedation Options: At our Fresno practice, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to make your visit more comfortable. If you choose to use it for your procedure, it can increase the overall price of your treatment.

During your consultation, we’ll discuss all these factors in detail and provide a personalized estimate before your treatment begins. We pride ourselves on transparency, never billing for unnecessary treatments or peripherals. You’ll only pay for what you need, and we’ll always explain the “why” of everything we do.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?

In many cases, yes! Most dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for wisdom tooth extractions, especially when the procedure is medically necessary. However, it’s always a good idea to check your plan before making assumptions.

At Shinkawa Dental, our team is always happy to help review your insurance benefits before your procedure to maximize your coverage. We’ll also file claims on your behalf so you can focus less on paperwork and more on your smile.

Other Options for Making Wisdom Tooth Extractions Affordable

If you don’t have insurance and need help covering costs, we’ve got you. Our practice offers several flexible payment options you can take advantage of to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

For example, you can apply for financing through CareCredit or Sunbit, both of which allow you to split payments into manageable monthly installments. We also offer an in-house dental savings plan that includes discounts on extractions and other services.