Wisdom teeth can be a literal pain. Not only do they often cause painful problems with your oral health, but they can also be quite expensive to have removed. If you don’t have dental insurance, how can you get your wisdom teeth removed?
In this blog post, we will explain the importance of experienced wisdom tooth extraction and explore some of your options for getting wisdom teeth removal without insurance in Kansas City.
Wisdom Teeth Basics
Even though wisdom teeth are our third molars, they are actually the last teeth to come in. For most people, wisdom teeth begin to erupt around age 17. While some people do not experience any problems with their wisdom teeth, others may need to have them removed, especially if they have an impacted wisdom tooth.
Why You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
The main reason why someone may need to have their wisdom teeth removed via surgical extraction is that the new teeth take up too much room in the mouth.
When there is not enough room, the wisdom teeth can become impacted, which means they get “stuck” and cannot come in all the way. Your wisdom teeth will attempt to emerge, despite a lack of space.
If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause a lot of problems, including pain, infection, and damage to the gum tissue and other teeth, including gum disease and eventual tooth decay.
Fortunately, wisdom tooth extraction in Kansas City, MO, is a relatively simple procedure that can be done by your dentist or an oral surgeon.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
Your tooth extraction cost will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the number of teeth that need to be removed, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the dentist. However, in general, the average cost of wisdom tooth removal is between $200 and $600 per tooth. Emergency dental work is always more expensive, so avoid waiting if you know they’re a problem.
To avoid a higher bill, opt for alternative sedation methods outside of general anesthesia. You can also choose generic pain medication to help ease the pain after the fact. Unless your situation is severe, visit a local dentist vs. an oral surgeon.
You should also get all affected teeth removed at the same time instead of going in for separate visits. You may save a little upfront by only removing one problematic tooth, but you’ll end up paying a lot more in the long run when you come back to have the other teeth removed.
If you avoid getting an impacted wisdom tooth removed due to fear of oral surgery, you may end up requiring more work from “collateral damage,” such as a root canal, dental crown, or dental implant. You will end up paying more and experiencing even more pain by putting this off.
When you’re ready to get rid of the tooth pain you’re experiencing, contact the Dental ER walk-in clinic for emergency dental services in Kansas City, MO.
Signs You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal
If you’re wondering whether you should have your wisdom teeth removed, here are four signs to look out for:
1. Pain and swelling: If your wisdom teeth are causing pain or swelling, it’s a good idea to see a dentist to have them assessed.
2. Impacted teeth: If your wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck in the jawbone), this can cause pain and other problems. Impacted teeth may also be more difficult to clean properly, which can lead to dental decay and gum disease.
3. Crowding: If your wisdom teeth are crowding other teeth in your mouth, this can cause problems with chewing and speaking. It can also increase your risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
4. Cysts: In some cases, wisdom teeth can cause cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to form on the gums or around the tooth. Don’t ignore these, as it can develop into a dental emergency.
Ways to Get Wisdom Teeth Extraction Without Insurance
Without a dental insurance plan, many patients stress about how they will be able to get dental services in Kansas City, especially when they need a tooth extraction.
Luckily, you have options! Try these methods to get your wisdom teeth removed without insurance.
Method #1. Financing
Talk to your dentist about financing plans. You can get the work done and make monthly payments. While this option may include interest, you can save money by tackling the problem right away before it requires more extensive dental work.
If your dentist doesn’t offer to finance, you may be able to get the funds via third-party dental financing. Here at Dental ER, we help our patients with this option. Two third-party companies that offer dental financing include SunBit and CreditCare.
Method #2. Dental Schools
Another option is to look for a dental school in your area. Dental students need to gain experience, so they may be willing to remove your wisdom teeth for free or at a reduced cost. You may need to sign a waiver in case the student makes a mistake.
Only get discount dental work from a school backed by the American Dental Association. Many people aren’t comfortable with this option, as “saving money” on important dental work that requires experience often isn’t a good risk trade-off.
Method #3. Cash Discounts
You could also try contacting a local oral surgeon. Some oral surgeons offer discounts for patients who pay cash up front. However, this often starts with a much higher cost to begin with vs a local dentist’s rates. True “net” savings will often negate this idea, so check with your local dentist first.
Method #4: Dental Savings Plan
If you anticipate dental work in the near future, start a dental savings plan now to pay for the work you’ll need in the future, including the removal of an impacted tooth.
Method #5: State Programs
Your state may offer programs to cover your wisdom tooth removal cost. These programs will generally not cover cosmetic dentistry. In order to get the assistance, be prepared to prove your income and the need for dental work.
We are very accustomed to patients who need guidance for getting their wisdom teeth removed without insurance. Ask us about your best options when you visit, and we’ll help you decide on the best course of action.
Tips on Scheduling Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Appointment
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, but it’s one that can cause a lot of anxiety for patients. If you’re scheduled to have your wisdom teeth removed, here are a few tips to help you prepare for your appointment.
First, be sure to schedule your appointment for a time when you can take it easy for the rest of the day, and likely the next. Wisdom teeth removal is a minor surgery, so you’ll need some time to recover. Don’t schedule your appointment right before an important test or presentation at work.
Second, make sure you have someone lined up to drive you home after your procedure. You’ll be under local anesthesia during the surgery, which means you won’t be able to drive yourself home. Ask a friend or family member to take the day off work so they can drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day.
Additionally, don’t eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes water!
Finally, go over the finances with your dentist in detail before the procedure. Ask all of your questions and ensure you are clear about how much you will need to pay and when you need to start making payments. Do not schedule an appointment if you don’t have the financial plan in place first.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your wisdom teeth removal appointment goes as smoothly as possible…even without insurance.
Getting Wisdom Teeth Removal in Kansas City, MO
When you can’t take the pain anymore, visit our clinic for emergency wisdom tooth removal in Kansas City, MO.
In case you urgently need dental assistance and it’s the weekend, read here to know what to do.
Services available include:
- Dental pain relief
- Emergency root canal treatment
- Wisdom tooth removal
- Dental infection
- Cavities and dental fillings
Don’t wait! Schedule an appointment today or call the office today.
