Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Cost Factors, Procedure Timeline, and Risks

Cost for Two Wisdom Teeth (US, 2024 Estimates)

Complexity	Anesthesia	Typical Range
Simple (erupted)	Local only	$200–$600
Soft tissue impaction	Local ± sedation	$400–$1,000
Partial bony impaction	IV sedation common	$600–$1,500
Full bony impaction	IV sedation/general	$800–$2,500+

Insurance: Often 50–80% coverage after deductible; annual max $1,000–$1,500. Medical insurance may cover if medically necessary (pathology, impaction).

Procedure Timeline

• Surgery: 30–60 min for two teeth
• Recovery from anesthesia: 30–60 min (IV/general)
• Total facility time: 2–3 hours

Risks (Overall 1–5%)

• Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) – 2–5%, worse with smoking, oral contraceptives
• Inferior alveolar nerve injury – temporary (1–5%), permanent (<1%)
• Infection, bleeding, sinus communication (upper teeth)

Preparation

• CBCT imaging for impaction assessment
• Pre-op chlorhexidine rinse
• Escort required for sedation/general