From childhood until adulthood, teeth erupt from underneath the gum in stages. Teeth can sometimes form like a molar, often known as flat teeth. On both sides of the mouth, these molars form at the back and are usually the last to appear. Wisdom teeth are the third molars that form in the back of the mouth.
When wisdom teeth form, it’s usually because they’re trying to emerge where there isn’t enough room in the jaw to grow. Although not everyone develops wisdom teeth, it is a normal occurrence for most people.
If wisdom teeth haven’t fully erupted, they can cause problems. These are referred to as impacted teeth, and their eruption is usually not in a straight line. When this happens, your dentist will perform wisdom tooth removal (also known as wisdom tooth extraction) to decrease the impact on your neighbouring teeth.
If you’re in line for wisdom teeth treatment but want to know about teeth removal costs in Australia, then let’s keep reading, and you’ll learn everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal treatment, including cost factors.
What Are The Symptoms Of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
You might encounter some of the symptoms that may indicate that you have a wisdom tooth and it needs to be removed. Here are the key symptoms that you should expect:
- Swollen or red gum
- A swollen jaw and surrounding area
- Increased jaw sensitivity
- Bad breath
- Stiffness when opening and closing the mouth
What Are The Factors That Impact Teeth Removal Cost In Australia?
Wisdom teeth removal can become complex, and sometimes it’s not as simple as getting the treatment in the dental chair. If you have a complex procedure, it is likely to require a hospital appointment. This will naturally mean paying more for your treatment.
Another factor that impacts wisdom teeth removal costs in Australia is location. If you’re based in Melbourne or Sydney, you should expect the average cost of treatment to be higher.
Also, how much has your wisdom tooth erupted? If your tooth has partially erupted, then the treatment to remove it may not be as easy as first thought. Some wisdom teeth will require surgical extraction, which can typically cost more.
A basic extraction process can start from $200 a tooth, whereas a surgical extraction can start from $300 a tooth.
Can Dental Insurance cover Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost In Australia?
Many dental insurance plans do offer some coverage for wisdom teeth removal treatment. This may also be formed part of extras in the policy. Wisdom teeth removal can range between 50% to 80% of surgeon fees.
Some of the insurance policies come with a waiting period before covering wisdom teeth removal costs. Ensure that a waiting period is met if a dental insurance policy covers you before scheduling an appointment for wisdom teeth removal.
Why And When Would You Need To Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Just because you have a wisdom tooth doesn’t necessarily mean it will be removed. Some reasons can determine whether it needs removing or not. For example, if the wisdom tooth is causing an impact on your overall dental health.
If you need to remove your wisdom tooth, it is likely to be due to one of the following reasons:
- Gum sensitivity at the back of the mouth
- Teeth becoming damaged when biting down on food
- If your neighbouring teeth are being damaged and impacted
- Increasing the chances of periodontal disease risk due to plaque and bacterial build-up
- The development of a tooth abscess
Wisdom teeth always require an examination at the dentist to determine if it has erupted enough and whether it’s causing an impact on your dental health. If you’re seeking wisdom teeth removal treatment, get yourself checked in for an examination as soon as possible.