Wisdom teeth are a problem many people face, but many are still confused about whether they need "extraction" or "surgery," how much the price differs, and how much it hurts. This article answers all the frequently asked questions, from Panda Dental Clinic.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars (the last teeth in the jaw) that can’t emerge normally into the mouth. They may be fully embedded in the jawbone, partially emerged, or angled against the neighboring tooth.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
- Prevent pain and swelling from a wisdom tooth pushing against the neighboring tooth
- Prevent decay in the neighboring tooth, since wisdom teeth are often hard to clean
- Prevent inflammation of the gum around the wisdom tooth
- Prevent cysts that can form around a long-embedded wisdom tooth
Extraction vs. Surgery — What’s the Difference?
Extraction | Surgery | |
|---|---|---|
Tooth condition | Fully emerged through gum, no obstruction | Embedded in gum or bone, partially emerged or angled |
Method | Extracted normally, no incision needed | Requires gum incision, some cases need bone removal or tooth sectioning |
Pain/swelling | Less, similar to a regular molar extraction | More, usually swollen for the first 2–3 days |
Stitches | Usually not needed | Needed, with stitch removal in 7 days |
Wisdom Tooth Surgery/Extraction Price at Panda Dental Clinic
Service | Price |
|---|---|
Extraction / difficult tooth | 1,000–2,500 baht |
Surgery / difficult tooth | 2,500–3,800 baht |
Your dentist will examine and X-ray to see the tooth’s position before confirming an exact price. Free initial consultation and assessment at the clinic.
Extraction/Surgery Steps
- Oral exam and X-ray (PANO) to see the wisdom tooth’s position
- Local anesthesia injection at the treatment area
- Normal extraction (extraction case) or gum incision/bone removal to take out the tooth (surgery case)
- Stitch the wound closed (surgery cases only), with self-care instructions
Does Surgery/Extraction Hurt?
No pain during the procedure, since local anesthesia is used — you’ll only feel pressure or vibration. Once the anesthesia wears off, extraction usually causes mild pain and little swelling, while surgery usually causes more pain and swelling, especially the first 2–3 days.
How Many Days of Recovery?
An extraction wound usually heals within a few days. For a surgery wound, pain and swelling ease within 1–2 weeks, but full healing of gum and bone may take about 1–3 months.
Caring for Yourself After Extraction/Surgery
- Bite down firmly on gauze for the time your dentist recommends, to stop bleeding
- Apply a cold compress to the cheek area for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling
- Avoid hard, very hot, or very spicy food during recovery
- Avoid vigorous rinsing, using straws, or smoking, as these can dislodge the blood clot and slow healing
- For surgery cases, keep your stitch-removal appointment as scheduled (about 7 days)
Summary
A wisdom tooth causing pain, swelling, or risk to a neighboring tooth should be examined and considered for removal early. At Panda Dental Clinic Udon Thani and Nong Bua Lamphu, starting at 1,000 baht, with free X-ray exam and consultation before you decide, or see all our dental services.
