Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, but the cost can vary widely depending on your specific situation and location.
In the Philippines, the price range fluctuates considerably due to factors such as the complexity of the extraction and the type of dental clinic.
Here, we provide an overview of what you might expect to pay for this procedure in the Philippines.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop and emerge in a person’s mouth, usually during late adolescence or early adulthood.
They are called ‘wisdom’ teeth because they appear at a mature age when a person is supposedly wiser.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Due to evolutionary changes, most modern human jaws are too small to accommodate wisdom teeth comfortably.
This lack of space can lead to various complications which often results in the need for their extraction.
If wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge or grow properly, they are said to be impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several problems, including:
- pain
- damage to other teeth
- infection
- development of a cyst around the wisdom tooth.
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Benefits of Having Wisdom Tooth Removal
Here are some potential benefits of having a wisdom tooth removal:
Prevention of Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth can crowd or disrupt the alignment of the other teeth in your mouth. Removing them can prevent this issue.
Reduction in Pain: If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. Extraction can relieve this pain.
Decreased Risk of Oral Disease and Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth or those which have partially erupted can be hard to clean, making them more prone to tooth decay and gum disease. Removal can help maintain overall oral health.
Improves Oral Hygiene: With the wisdom teeth gone, it’s easier to reach and clean the back of your mouth.
Remember, it’s important to consult with a dental professional to understand if wisdom tooth extraction is the best option for you, as every individual’s situation is unique.
Risks or Drawbacks with Having Wisdom Tooth Removed
Here are some potential risks or drawbacks associated with wisdom tooth removal:
Infection: There’s always a risk of infection following surgery, including wisdom tooth extraction. Symptoms can include fever, persistent pain, and pus discharge.
Prolonged Pain and Swelling: Some people may experience pain and swelling in the treated area for several days or even weeks after the surgery.
Bleeding: Although minor bleeding is normal, prolonged bleeding can occur in some cases.
Each individual’s situation is unique, so it’s essential to discuss the potential risks with your dental professional before making a decision.
Questions to Ask the Dentist Before Having Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Asking your dentist the right questions can help you feel more prepared for the procedure. Here are some examples:
- Why do you recommend my wisdom teeth be removed?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
- How many wisdom teeth need to be removed?
- What is the level of impaction of my wisdom teeth?
- How long will the procedure take?
- What are the potential risks and complications of the procedure?
- What should I expect during the recovery period?
- How much will the procedure cost, including anesthesia and aftercare?
- How should I prepare for the surgery? Are there any dietary restrictions?
- Will I need to arrange for someone to accompany me home after the procedure?
- How can I manage pain after the extraction?
- What are the signs of infection or other complications that I should watch for after the procedure?
- When can I resume normal activities such as eating, drinking, exercising, or going back to work?
- Will I need a follow-up appointment, and when should it be scheduled?
Price of Wisdom Tooth Extraction in the Philippines
Below is a price list chart for wisdom tooth extraction:
Clinic | Estimated Cost |
Affinity Dental (Manila and Cebu): https://affinitydentalclinics.com/ | PHP 12,000 / tooth |
Bright Smile Avenue Dental Clinic (Manila): https://www.brightsmileavenue.com/ | PHP 12,000 to 25,000 / tooth |
Cebu Dental Implants: https://cebudentalimplant.com/ | PHP 12,000 -15,000 / tooth |
Dental World Manila: https://dentalworld.com.ph/ | PHP 28,000 |
Dobles Dental Clinic (Manila): http://www.doblesdental.com/ | PHP 4000 – PHP 20,000 (depends on position) |
Elevate Dental: https://elevatedental.ph/ | Extraction of erupted wisdom tooth extraction: from PHP 10,000 |
Surgical removal of an impacted wisdom tooth: from PHP 21,000 | |
Gerochi Dental and Implant Center: https://www.gerochidental.com/ | Upper/ Lower – PHP 17,000 |
Below is a breakdown of the costs associated with wisdom tooth extraction in the Philippines:
- Simple wisdom tooth extraction: Starts from PHP 4,000 per tooth
- Impacted wisdom tooth extraction: Can range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 18,000 per tooth
- Extraction of all four wisdom teeth: Typically costs between PHP 40,000 and PHP 72,000
Anesthesia:
- Local anesthesia: Usually included in the extraction cost
- General anesthesia or conscious sedation: Additional cost, varies based on the complexity of the case
Aftercare costs:
- Pain relievers: Varies depending on the type and quantity prescribed
- Antibiotics: Cost varies based on the type and length of the course prescribed
- Follow-up visits: Usually included in the extraction cost but additional visits may have separate charges
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the signs of an impacted wisdom tooth?
Some signs of an impacted wisdom tooth include jaw pain, difficulty opening your mouth, bad breath, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and swelling or bleeding gums at the back of your mouth.
2. Why might I need general anesthesia during the procedure?
General anesthesia or conscious sedation might be used for complex cases or for patients who are particularly anxious about the procedure.
This ensures that you’re comfortable and feel no pain during the extraction.
3. How long does the actual extraction procedure take?
The duration of the procedure depends on the number of teeth being extracted and their level of impaction. Generally, it takes about 20-40 minutes per tooth.
4. Are there any alternatives to having my wisdom teeth removed?
If your wisdom teeth are not causing any symptoms, your dentist may recommend regular monitoring rather than extraction.
If symptoms do occur later, extraction may become necessary.
5. What happens if I choose not to have my wisdom teeth removed?
If your wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, you may not need to have them removed.
However, if they are impacted or causing other issues, choosing not to have them removed could lead to complications such as:
- infection
- tooth decay
- gum disease
- cysts
- tumors
- damage to nearby teeth
6. When can I return to work or school after having my wisdom teeth removed?
Most people can return to work or school within 2-3 days after the procedure. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing rates.
8. Does everyone have to get their wisdom teeth removed?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. It’s necessary only if they are causing problems such as pain, infection, cysts, tumors, damage to adjacent teeth, or gum disease.
9. How much does it cost to have wisdom teeth removed?
The cost varies greatly depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the type of anesthesia used, and the location of the dental clinic.
In the Philippines, a simple extraction may start from PHP 4,000 per tooth, while an impacted tooth could be between PHP 10,000 to PHP 21,000.
Tips for Potential Patients
- Consult: Talk to your dentist about any concerns you have regarding wisdom tooth extraction. Ask questions and make sure you understand all the risks and benefits before making a decision.
- Compare prices: Take time to research and compare prices between different dental clinics.
- Take note of any restrictions: Follow any dietary and lifestyle restrictions your dentist recommends for pre-operative preparation and post-operative recovery.
- Seek help: Have a friend or family member accompany you on the day of your wisdom tooth extraction, in case you need assistance.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Make sure to practice good oral hygiene before and after the procedure to help reduce the risk of infection and other complications.
- Explore payment options: Don’t be shy to ask your dentist about any payment plans, discounts, or financing options that are available to help cover the cost of the procedure.
Having your wisdom tooth removed can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing what to expect and taking the right steps can help make the process easier.
Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your dentist before making a decision.