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Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Information Page is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive insights into the specialized procedure we offer. Explore in-depth guides and watch educational videos. We're committed to ensuring you're well-informed and confident when choosing us for your wisdom teeth extraction needs.
Utahs Best Deals for Low-Cost Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom Teeth Removal Overview
Ever wondered why you might need wisdom teeth removal? Let’s crack open the details and see what’s involved in this rite of passage for many of us.
Why Bother with Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth, the third molars, usually decide to make their grand entrance between 17 and 25 years old (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Back in the day, our ancestors needed these extra chompers to grind tough plants. Nowadays, thanks to changes in jaw sizes and diets, these teeth often stir up trouble.
Here’s the scoop on why folks often need to kick these rebels out:
Impaction: When there’s no room at the inn, these teeth get stuck (impacted) in the jaw.
Infection and Gum Issues: Partly visible wisdom teeth become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to nasty infections and gum disease.
Taking Out the Neighbors: If wisdom teeth crash into other teeth, they can cause damage and spark the need for more dental work.
Cysts or Tumors: Rare, but wisdom teeth can trigger cysts or tumors, turning a bad situation worse.
By removing wisdom teeth before they cause trouble, you’re saving yourself from future oral headaches.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Getting wisdom teeth out isn’t as scary as it sounds. Here’s a play-by-play of what happens:
Numbing Up: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia keeps you comfy (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
Gum Peekaboo: A small cut in the gum tissue exposes the tooth and bone.
Bone Goodbye: Any bone blocking the tooth root is shaved away.
Tooth Chopping: The tooth might be divided into smaller chunks to make it easier to remove.
Tooth Exit: The pieces of the tooth are taken out.
Stitch and Soothe: The cut is stitched up, and gauze is placed to control bleeding.
StepWhat HappensNumbing UpLocal/sedation/general anesthesia for comfortGum PeekabooExposing the tooth and boneBone GoodbyeRemoving bone blocking the tooth rootTooth ChoppingBreaking the tooth into piecesTooth ExitRemoving tooth piecesStitch and SootheStitches and gauze for bleeding control
The whole shebang usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. Recovery? Give it about a week. For more on the cost side of things, check out how much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Utah.
Knowing the why and how of wisdom teeth removal helps you feel ready and confident. Want more on staying comfy during the procedure or what to do after? Check out these handy guides: Anesthesia for Comfort and Post-Op Recovery.
Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic
Who We Are & Where to Find Us
At Dr. Wisdom Teeth, we’ve got your back (or rather, your mouth). Specializing in wisdom teeth extractions, we make sure you get high-quality, affordable care. Our clinics in Provo and Murray are all about comfort and convenience, providing easy access for everyone from city slickers to suburban dwellers. Don't believe us? Check us out.
Meet the Dream Team
The heart and soul of our operation is Dr. Heath Hendrickson, D.D.S. Since 2007, he's been the go-to guy for wisdom teeth removal. Dr. Hendrickson has a knack for making a usually tough process a breeze with his gentle approach and deep expertise behind the dental chair. Learn more about Dr. H. here.
Our sedation rockstar, Michael Call, knows how to keep things cool — having sedated over 100,000 folks and pulled off more than 60,000 safe sedation procedures. If that doesn’t give you peace of mind, we don’t know what will. Meet Michael here.
Here’s a glimpse at our tight-knit team:
Bobbi Jo McKay: Office Manager extraordinaire with nine years under her belt. She keeps things running smoother than a new set of chompers while juggling nine kids of her own. She gets what worried parents are going through.
Jennifer Frame: Lead Assistant, and the right-hand to Dr. Hendrickson since 2009. Her ongoing training in dental anesthesia helps keep the clinic at the cutting edge of safe patient care. More on Jennifer here.
Team MemberRoleExperienceDr. Heath HendricksonGeneral DentistWisdom teeth extraordinaire since 2007Michael CallSedation SpecialistMaster of sedation for over 100,000 patientsBobbi Jo McKayOffice Manager9 years making magic happenJennifer FrameLead AssistantPro at dental anesthesia since 2009
Curious about the cost or how to make payments easier? We've spelled it out for you. Check our insights on comparing the cost of wisdom teeth removal in Utah cities and payment plans.
That's us in a nutshell. Or should we say, in a wisdom tooth shell? Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or need more information!
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
Worried about how much getting those pesky wisdom teeth pulled is gonna set you back? You're not alone. At Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic, we focus on keeping things easy on your wallet with fair, clear pricing and solid insurance plans to cover you.
Pricing Straight Up
We ain't playin' when we say we offer some of the best prices out there in Utah.
Wisdom Teeth RemovedCost (With Sedation, X-ray, and Exam)1 Wisdom Tooth$3992 Wisdom Teeth$5993 Wisdom Teeth$7994 Wisdom Teeth$999
These prices cover everything you need, from the exam to the sedation. No surprises, just straight-up costs. We've yanked out over 200,000 wisdom teeth and counting (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
Got questions about the usual cost around here? Check out how much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Utah and see how our prices stack up.
Insurance and Payment Plans
We get it. Dental bills can be rough. That's why Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic takes just about any insurance you can think of, including Medicaid and CHIP (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
Plus, we offer payment plans to lighten the load, spreading out those expenses so you don’t have to stress. You can dig more into payment plans for wisdom teeth removal if you want all the details.
Make sure to check what your insurance covers to dodge any nasty surprises. Peep our article on does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal for the lowdown on insurance nitty-gritty.
At Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic, we're all about keeping things affordable without skimping on quality. Need tips on avoiding unexpected charges? Look into our hidden costs of wisdom teeth removal to stay ahead of the game.
So, ready to kiss those wisdom teeth goodbye without breaking the bank? We're here to help you every step of the way.
Sedation and Recovery
Getting your wisdom teeth out doesn't have to be a nightmare. Our aim? Keep ya comfy and get you healed up fast. Here's the lowdown on how we do it.
Smooth Sailing Anesthesia
When it’s time for those wisdom teeth to go, sedation’s the name of the game. We use IV sedation, so you’re not just comfortable – you’re practically in dreamland. You’ll breeze through the procedure without a peep and bounce back quicker than you’d think.
Type of AnesthesiaWhy It RocksIV SedationTotal comfort, zero memories of the procedure, speedy recovery
Curious about different sedation options and their perks? Check out how does wisdom teeth removal cost vary by city in Utah.
Healing Like a Pro
After the extraction, you’ll need about a week to get back to your usual self. Expect some swelling, discomfort, and a tiny bit of bleeding. Stick to the rules your dentist gives you, and you’ll come out golden.
Here’s your to-do list:
Chill: Kick back and relax. Seriously, no heavy lifting or workout marathons for a few days.
Handle the Pain: Take your meds as prescribed – they’re your best friend right now.
Clean Up: Rinse your mouth with salt water gently and don’t touch the surgery site with a toothbrush for 24 hours.
Eat Smart: Keep it soft and easy – think smoothies, yogurt, and soups. Definitely steer clear of hot, spicy, or crunchy stuff.
Your Recovery TasksQuick TipsChillSkip the gym, hit the couchHandle the PainTake your meds on timeClean UpSaltwater rinses, no brushing the site for a dayEat SmartSoft foods, no heat or spice
If anything feels off, call your oral surgeon. For more on post-op care, check out our tips for straightening curly hair.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) treatment. Dr. Hendrickson’s got this down – it uses a bit of your own blood to make an enriched clot. This trick cuts down on dry sockets big time, from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100. It’s slipped into your healing sockets while you snooze, giving you a faster, comfier recovery.
For more info on keeping costs in check, peep how much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Utah and does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal.
Knowing your sedation choices and nailing your recovery plan means a breeze of a wisdom teeth removal. Easy peasy, right?
Patient Experience
What to Expect and How We Communicate
At Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic, making sure you feel informed and relaxed about your wisdom teeth removal is our top goal. Many teens and young adults especially may feel nervous about the surgery, and we aim to put everyone at ease. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
Stage of TreatmentWhat HappensConsultationWe chat about the procedure, go over costs, and outline the recovery. Payment plans for wisdom teeth removal are available.Pre-Operative InstructionsGuidance on how to prepare, including fasting before anesthesia and arranging a ride home.Procedure DayExplanation of anesthesia options and measures to keep you comfortable.Post-Operative CareDetailed instructions for taking care of yourself at home to ensure a smooth recovery.
We make sure every question gets an answer and all concerns are taken seriously. This includes explaining anesthesia, what to expect after the procedure, and how to manage pain and swelling at home. You can reach out to us anytime, whether you prefer digital updates or direct phone calls.
What Our Patients Say
Feedback from our patients helps us build trust and maintain high-quality service. Check out these testimonials from folks who had their wisdom teeth removed at Dr. Wisdom Teeth:
PatientWhat They SaidJane D., Salt Lake City"I was really nervous about getting my wisdom teeth out, but Dr. Hendrickson made it so easy to understand. The whole process was smooth, and the recovery was faster than I expected."Carlos P., Provo"Affordable and professional! The bilingual services were a big plus for my family. Highly recommend them for anyone needing their wisdom teeth removed."Emily R., Ogden"Great care and clear communication. The pricing was transparent, and the team was very supportive throughout my entire recovery process."Michael S., Salt Lake City"Had all four wisdom teeth removed at a competitive price. Everything was well-organized, and the staff was incredibly friendly and informative."
These positive reviews showcase our commitment to providing quality care at fair prices. Check out more about our pricing options.
Patient testimonials offer a comforting assurance about the care and expertise provided by our clinic. Read more about what folks are saying in our [reviews and testimonials] section.
By keeping our communication clear and valuing patient feedback, Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic works hard to ensure that your experience, from the initial consultation to full recovery, is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Special Services Offered
If you're looking for affordable wisdom teeth removal in Utah, Dr. Wisdom Teeth Clinic offers services that make us unique. We focus on making you comfortable, speeding up recovery, and keeping communication clear.
Benefits of PRF Treatment
Our standout service, offered at no extra cost, is the Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) treatment. We take your own blood to create a special clot that’s placed into the healing sockets. PRF cuts down the chance of a dry socket drastically, from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100 (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). We do this while you’re asleep, so recovery feels easier and less painful.
BenefitWhat It MeansLower Dry Socket RiskSlashes the chance of a dry socket from 10% to 1%Better HealingSpeeds up and improves the healing processNatural TreatmentUses your own blood, so fewer complications
Want to know about the costs involved in wisdom teeth removal? Check out how much does wisdom teeth removal cost in utah.
Bilingual Services and More Perks
Dr. Heath Hendrickson, our expert in wisdom teeth removal, knows clear communication is key. That’s why we offer services in both English and Spanish, helping all our patients feel at ease and understood (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). This is a big plus for our diverse community in places like Salt Lake City and Provo.
Additional Perks:
Insurance & Payment Plans: We accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid and CHIP (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Worried about costs? We have flexible payment plans for wisdom teeth removal.
Experienced Team: Dr. Hendrickson has removed over 250,000 teeth and safely sedated over 60,000 patients (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Our team's expertise means a smooth process for you.
All-Inclusive Pricing: Our prices cover sedation, x-ray, and exam (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Want to compare costs with and without insurance? See wisdom teeth removal cost with insurance vs without insurance.
We aim to give you the best experience possible. For tips on saving money and avoiding hidden costs, visit how to get affordable wisdom teeth removal in Utah and hidden costs of wisdom teeth removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.
Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!
"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."
— Aristotle, The History of Animals.
Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?
Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.
What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?
The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.
Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?
No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!
Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?
Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.
What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.
Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?
Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.
Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?
Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.
Will I experience pain during or after the removal?
The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.
What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?
In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.
What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?
Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!
When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?
This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!
What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?
If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.
What can be done to prevent a dry socket?
We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.
Where are you located?
We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
What are your hours?
We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.
Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
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