Not everyone has to remove their wisdom teeth. If your wisdom teeth do not cause you any issues, there is no reason to extract them. Typically, wisdom teeth are removed in the following cases:

• If your wisdom teeth are impacted or partially impacted (hidden underneath the gum), and cause pain and gum irritation
• If your wisdom teeth are infected or decayed
• If you are preparing for orthodontic treatment and need to create extra space in the mouth for the crowded teeth to align properly
• If your wisdom teeth contribute to misalignment and TMJ issues

In most cases, patients feel no pain during tooth extraction because the local anesthesia used numbs the extraction site completely. You might experience slight discomfort when the anesthetic is injected, but this sensation is mild and lasts only a couple of seconds. Once the anesthetic wears off after the extraction, you are likely to feel mild soreness or throbbing at the procedure site for a couple of days.

The out-of-pocket cost of a simple tooth extraction ranges from $100 to $300 per tooth, while the cost of a complex surgical extraction of an impacted or broken tooth ranges from $300 to $500. The price may vary based on the type of examinations you require, tooth extraction, and the type of anesthesia or sedation used.

A simple tooth extraction typically takes just a couple of minutes per tooth. So, if you need to remove only one tooth, the entire dental visit might take less than an hour. Surgical extractions of impacted or rotated teeth, or extractions of multiple teeth at a time, will take longer.

Recovery after a tooth extraction typically takes 10 to 14 days. In the first 3 to 5 days, you are likely to experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers and will subside as the healing progresses. During this period, it is important to switch to a soft diet, be extra careful when cleaning at the extraction site, and avoid strenuous activities, smoking, and alcohol. Most patients feel almost back to normal by days 7 to 10 and can gradually return to their normal diet and activities.

Two potential complications of tooth extraction are infection and a condition called dry socket, in which the blood clot that forms in the socket is disturbed or dislodged. Both these risks can be avoided if you follow your doctor’s recommendations, keep the extraction site and the mouth clean, take plenty of rest, avoid hard foods, smoking, alcohol, and strenuous activities. When extraction is complicated, or you have general health issues that can hinder healing, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

Local anesthesia is typically used for all types of tooth extractions. Modern local anesthetics are extremely effective, completely numbing the procedure site and blocking all sensations. The majority of patients do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure and might not even notice the extraction itself. 

However, patients who find it challenging to remain in one position for the duration of the procedure, experience acute dental anxiety, or can not tolerate local anesthesia can opt for sedation, such as nitrous oxide, oral, or IV sedation.

Wisdom teeth removal is typically covered by insurance, provided that it is a medical necessity. Often, insurance companies pay 50% to 80% of the cost, depending on your plan, deductibles, and annual maximums.