🦷 Procedure Guide

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last teeth to emerge, usually between ages 17–25. When there isn't enough room in the jaw for them to come in properly, they become impacted — trapped beneath the gum or growing at an angle. Oral surgeons remove wisdom teeth to prevent pain, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, cysts, and crowding.

Typical range: $300–$1,500 per tooth

What to expect

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation (IV sedation or general anesthesia is common for all four wisdom teeth). The surgeon makes an incision in the gum, removes any bone blocking access, extracts the tooth (sometimes in sections), cleans the site, and closes with dissolvable stitches. Recovery takes 3–7 days: rest, ice packs for swelling, soft foods, and pain medication as prescribed. Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing for at least a week.

What it typically costs

National range: $300–$1,500 per tooth. Simple: $300–$800. Surgical/impacted: $500–$1,500. All four with sedation: $2,000–$6,000.

See the full wisdom tooth extractioncost guide →

Common questions about wisdom tooth extraction

Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?

No. Removal is only recommended if wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck below the gum), growing at an angle that threatens adjacent teeth, causing pain or recurrent infection, contributing to crowding, or if you can't clean them properly. Fully erupted, properly positioned wisdom teeth that you can keep clean may not need removal.

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?

Costs range from $300–$800 per tooth for simple extraction and $500–$1,500 per tooth for surgical removal of impacted teeth. Removing all four impacted wisdom teeth under sedation typically costs $2,000–$6,000 total. Dental insurance often covers 50–80% for medically necessary removal.

What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dissolves or dislodges too early, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. It's painful and delays healing. To prevent it: don't use straws, don't smoke, avoid vigorous spitting or rinsing for at least a week, and follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions precisely.

How long is recovery from wisdom teeth removal?

Most patients recover in 3–7 days. Day 1–2: rest, use ice packs, eat soft foods, take prescribed pain medication. Swelling peaks at 48–72 hours. Day 3–4: swelling decreases, can begin gentle saltwater rinses. Day 5–7: most people return to normal activities. Full healing of the sockets takes several weeks to months.

Can I be asleep during wisdom teeth removal?

Yes. Most oral surgeons offer IV sedation ('twilight sleep') or general anesthesia so you're completely comfortable and have no memory of the procedure. This is especially common when removing all four wisdom teeth at once. You'll need someone to drive you home afterward.