Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many individuals undergo. If you are in need of wisdom teeth extraction and have medical insurance, there are numerous options available to you. In this article, we will discuss ten different places where you can get your wisdom teeth removed with medical coverage, exploring various aspects of each option.
1. General Dentist Office
One of the most convenient options for wisdom teeth removal is to visit a general dentist office. Most general dentists have experience in performing extractions, including wisdom teeth. They usually accept medical insurance and provide this service at their office. The cost for wisdom teeth removal at a general dentist office can range from $200 to $600 per tooth.
Some general dentists may refer you to an oral surgeon if your case is more complex or requires specialized care.
Here are a few general dentist offices that accept medical insurance for wisdom teeth removal:
- Dental Care Plus
- Aspen Dental
- Gentle Dental
2. Oral Surgeon Office
Oral surgeons are dental specialists who focus on performing surgical procedures, including wisdom teeth removal. They have additional training and expertise in complex extractions. Oral surgeons often accept medical insurance, but it is recommended to check with your insurance provider beforehand.
The average cost for wisdom teeth removal by an oral surgeon is around $225 to $600 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the case. It is important to note that the total cost may be higher if sedation or anesthesia is required.
Here are a few oral surgeon offices that accept medical insurance for wisdom teeth removal:
- Oral Surgery Associates
- Midwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center
3. Dental Schools
Another option for affordable wisdom teeth removal is to visit a dental school. Dental schools often have clinics where dental students, under the supervision of experienced faculty, provide dental services at reduced prices. These clinics may accept medical insurance.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal at dental schools can range from $75 to $200 per tooth. However, the procedure may take longer as it involves students learning and being supervised.
Here are a few dental schools with clinics that accept medical insurance for wisdom teeth removal:
- University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry
4. Community Health Centers
Community health centers are nonprofit organizations that provide healthcare services to underserved populations. They often have dental clinics that offer a range of dental procedures, including wisdom teeth removal. These clinics may accept medical insurance and offer reduced fees based on income.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal at community health centers with medical insurance can vary depending on your income and the center's sliding fee scale. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $300 per tooth.
Here are a few community health centers with dental clinics that accept medical insurance for wisdom teeth removal:
- Planned Parenthood
- Community Health Centers, Inc.
- Neighborhood Healthcare
5. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are community-based healthcare providers that receive federal funding to provide healthcare services to underserved populations. These centers often have dental clinics that offer wisdom teeth removal and accept medical insurance.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal at FQHCs with medical insurance can vary based on your income and the center's sliding fee scale. On average, you can expect to pay around $50 to $200 per tooth.
Here are a few FQHCs with dental clinics that accept medical insurance for wisdom teeth removal:
- HealthPoint
- Community Health Center of Snohomish County
- Unity Health Care
6. Dental Savings Plans
If you don't have medical insurance or if your insurance doesn't cover wisdom teeth removal, a dental savings plan can help reduce the cost of the procedure. Dental savings plans are membership-based programs that offer discounted rates for various dental services.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal with a dental savings plan can vary depending on the plan and provider. On average, you can expect to save around 20% to 50% off the regular cost of the procedure.
Here are a few dental savings plans that can help reduce the cost of wisdom teeth removal:
- DentalPlans.com
- Humana Dental Savings Plus Plan
- Aetna Dental Access Plan
7. Dental Clinics for Low-Income Individuals
There are dental clinics and organizations that focus on providing affordable dental care to low-income individuals. These clinics may offer wisdom teeth removal at reduced fees and accept medical insurance.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal at these clinics can vary based on your income. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $300 per tooth.
Here are a few dental clinics for low-income individuals that accept medical insurance:
- United Dental Clinic
- Dental Lifeline Network
- Dentistry From The Heart
8. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flex Spending Accounts (FSAs)
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flex Spending Account (FSA), you can use the funds from these accounts to cover the cost of wisdom teeth removal. Both HSAs and FSAs allow individuals to set aside pre-tax money for medical expenses.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal when using HSA or FSA funds will depend on your specific plan and contribution amount.
9. Free or Low-Cost Dental Events
Occasionally, there may be free or low-cost dental events where wisdom teeth removal is offered at reduced or no cost. These events are usually organized by dental clinics, nonprofit organizations, or local communities.
The availability of free or low-cost dental events varies by location and timing. Checking with local dental clinics, community organizations, or dental association websites can help you find such events in your area.
10. Emergency Dental Clinics
If you are experiencing severe pain or complications due to your wisdom teeth, emergency dental clinics can provide immediate care. These clinics often accept medical insurance and offer same-day or urgent appointments for extractions.
The cost for wisdom teeth removal at emergency dental clinics can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the level of care required. It is recommended to check with the clinic beforehand or discuss the cost during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Is wisdom teeth removal covered by medical insurance?
- Q: How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
- Q: Are there any risks or complications associated with wisdom teeth removal?
- Q: Can I delay or avoid wisdom teeth removal?
- Q: How can I find a dentist or oral surgeon who accepts medical insurance?
A: Yes, in most cases, medical insurance covers wisdom teeth removal. However, the extent of coverage and out-of-pocket expenses may vary depending on your insurance plan.
A: The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal typically ranges from a few days to a week. It may take longer for complete healing to occur.
A: Like any surgical procedure, wisdom teeth removal carries some risks and potential complications, such as infection, excessive bleeding, dry socket, or nerve injury. However, these complications are relatively rare.
A: In some cases, if the wisdom teeth are not causing any problems and are properly aligned, your dentist or oral surgeon may suggest monitoring them instead of immediate removal. However, regular check-ups are necessary to ensure they do not cause future issues.
A: You can start by checking the websites of dental offices, oral surgeons, dental schools, community health centers, or FQHCs. Contacting your insurance provider and asking for a list of in-network dentists or oral surgeons is also helpful.
References
- Dental Care Plus
- Aspen Dental
- Gentle Dental
- Oral Surgery Associates
- Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center
- University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry
- Planned Parenthood
- Community Health Centers, Inc.
- Neighborhood Healthcare
- HealthPoint
- Community Health Center of Snohomish County
- Unity Health Care
- DentalPlans.com
- Humana Dental Savings Plus
- Aetna Dental Access Plan
- United Dental Clinic
- Dental Lifeline Network
- Dentistry From The Heart