Is it necessary to extract wisdom teeth, and how much does it cost per tooth?

Nov 01, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

There are three types of wisdom tooth extraction procedures, with corresponding reference prices as follows: maxillary in-line wisdom teeth, approximately 200–600 yuan per tooth; mandibular in-line wisdom teeth, approximately 300–1,000 yuan per tooth; and impacted wisdom teeth, approximately 500–2,000 yuan per tooth. Factors affecting the cost of wisdom tooth extraction include regional differences, whether adjunctive treatments are required, and the type of anesthesia used.

In general, whether wisdom teeth need to be extracted depends on their growth condition and whether they are causing problems. If the wisdom teeth grow normally, without decay, and maintain proper occlusion with opposing teeth, they may not need to be removed—as long as good oral hygiene is maintained through regular brushing. However, if the wisdom teeth grow improperly, they may cause issues such as food impaction, inflammation, infection, or gum disease, in which case dentists usually recommend extraction. Wisdom tooth extraction can be categorized into three types, with corresponding price ranges: maxillary orthodontic-positioned wisdom teeth (reference price: 200–600 RMB per tooth); mandibular orthodontic-positioned wisdom teeth (reference price: 300–1,000 RMB per tooth); and impacted wisdom teeth (reference price: 500–2,000 RMB per tooth). Factors influencing the cost include regional differences, need for adjunctive treatments, and anesthesia methods.

Types of wisdom tooth extractions and reference prices:

Procedure Name	Maxillary Orthodontic-Positioned Wisdom Tooth	Mandibular Orthodontic-Positioned Wisdom Tooth	Impacted Wisdom Tooth
Reference Price	200–600 RMB/tooth	300–1,000 RMB/tooth	500–2,000 RMB/tooth
Procedure Principle	Using specialized instruments to extract normally positioned maxillary wisdom teeth	Using specialized techniques and instruments to extract normally positioned mandibular wisdom teeth	Surgical incision of the gums and bone removal to extract abnormally growing impacted wisdom teeth
Suitable Candidates	Patients whose wisdom teeth are properly positioned but require extraction	Patients whose wisdom teeth are properly positioned but require extraction	Patients whose wisdom teeth have abnormal growth direction, fail to erupt properly, and require extraction
Recovery Period	3–7 days	4–7 days	2–4 weeks
Longevity	25–30 years	25–30 years	20–30 years
Advantages	1. Simple procedure 2. Minimal trauma	1. Reduces pressure from wisdom teeth on adjacent teeth 2. Improves oral health	1. Prevents damage from impacted wisdom teeth to neighboring teeth 2. Enhances chewing function
Potential Risks	1. Pain and swelling 2. Damage to adjacent teeth	1. Swelling and infection 2. Pain and bleeding	1. Nerve injury 2. Bleeding and residual tooth roots

Factors affecting the cost:

1. Regional Differences
Differences in local living costs and distribution of medical resources lead to variations in wisdom tooth extraction fees. Generally, extraction costs in first-tier cities are higher than those in second- and third-tier cities.

2. Need for Adjunctive Treatments
In some cases, additional procedures such as gingivoplasty may be required during extraction, which increases the overall cost.

3. Anesthesia Method
Local anesthesia is typically used during extraction, but different anesthesia methods vary in cost. Local anesthesia is relatively inexpensive, while intravenous sedation or general anesthesia—when needed—will increase the total expense.

It is recommended to consult a local dental hospital or clinic and choose an appropriate extraction plan based on individual circumstances. Additionally, always opt for a licensed medical facility to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.

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What causes pain behind the jaw and what should I do?

In general, pain behind the jaw may be related to temporomandibular joint disorders, muscle fatigue, submental lymphadenitis, temporomandibular joint arthritis, pericoronitis of wisdom teeth, and other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's guidance for treatments such as general care and medication. In daily life, regular dental check-ups should be conducted to help maintain oral health.

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Why do wisdom teeth grow?

Under normal circumstances, the growth of wisdom teeth may be caused by evolutionary factors, genetics, tooth arrangement, dental development, individual differences, and other factors. Wisdom tooth eruption is the result of the combined effects of human evolution, heredity, and individual development. Most people will experience the process of wisdom teeth eruption. If the wisdom teeth erupt normally and cause no discomfort, no special treatment is required.

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Can you extract wisdom teeth during the Chinese New Year holiday?

In general, whether wisdom teeth can be extracted during the Chinese New Year period depends on the condition of the wisdom teeth. If there is no acute pain, inflammation, or other issues, extraction can be postponed until after the holiday. However, if the wisdom tooth causes recurrent pain, swelling, or damage to adjacent teeth, it should be removed promptly even during the festive period. After extraction, patients must strictly follow medical instructions, avoiding brushing and rinsing for 24 hours.

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How many teeth do normal people have in total?

When an individual has a complete permanent dentition, with all teeth normally developed and fully erupted, it specifically includes: 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 12 molars (including 4 wisdom teeth). This condition is commonly seen in adults without congenital absence or tooth extractions, resulting in a stable total of 32 teeth.