What is the average cost per wisdom tooth extraction in Ontario?

Key Takeaways

• Without insurance, patients can expect higher out-of-pocket costs, but financing and payment plans are often available.
• Factors influencing the cost include the level of tooth impaction, the surgeon's expertise, and the clinic's location.
• Insured patients typically pay significantly less, with most basic coverage plans offering partial or full reimbursement for medical expenses.
• Expert insights from Dr. James C.H. Ko, DDS, and Dr. Amir Guorgui, BSc, DMD, MACSD, confirm that complexity and the type of sedation are significant cost drivers.

What is the average cost of wisdom tooth extraction in Ontario?

Wisdom tooth removal costs in Ontario vary widely based on whether the procedure is surgical or straightforward, the type of sedation used, and whether a general dentist or an oral surgeon performs it.

Ontario Price Ranges (Per Tooth)

• Simple extraction: $160 – $250
• Surgical extraction (soft tissue): $250 – $400
• Surgical extraction (impacted or fully bony): $350 – $500

Complete Removal (All Four Wisdom Teeth)

• Simple extractions: $600 – $1,000
• Mixed/surgical extractions: $1,200 – $2,000+

Additional fees may include:

• Consultation: $50 – $150
• Panoramic X-ray: $80 – $150
• Sedation/General Anesthesia: $200 – $1,000 depending on type and duration

Patients seeking care at the Barrie Smile Centre may be offered custom quotes based on a complete examination and diagnostic imaging.

How much does wisdom tooth removal cost without insurance?

When not covered by insurance, wisdom tooth extraction can be a substantial expense. However, patients have several options to manage the cost.

Cost Comparison: Insured vs Uninsured

*Assumes 70–90% coverage with standard dental insurance plans.

Financing and Payment Options

• Installment payment plans: Offered at many clinics.
• Health spending accounts (HSAs): Can offset out-of-pocket expenses.
• Third-party financing (e.g., Dentalcard): Offers low-interest payment solutions.
• Tax deductions: In Canada, medical expenses exceeding a certain threshold may be deductible.

Dr. James C.H. Ko DDS explains, "Uninsured patients should inquire about payment flexibility. Many clinics, including ours, aim to make surgical care accessible without large upfront costs."

What factors influence the cost of wisdom teeth removal?

The cost of extraction can fluctuate significantly depending on several variables. Knowing what drives these price changes can help patients plan accordingly.

1. Number and Type of Teeth Removed

• Single tooth vs. all four: Extracting all four at once is often more cost-effective per tooth.
• Impacted teeth: Full or partial impaction requires more complex surgery, increasing costs.

2. Complexity of Procedure

• Soft tissue impaction: Moderate complexity, moderate cost.
• Full bony impaction: High complexity, requires a surgical specialist.

3. Type of Sedation or Anesthesia Used

• Local anesthesia is typically included in the base price.
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): $75 – $150 extra.
• IV sedation or general anesthesia: $250 – $1,000 depending on provider and duration.

4. General Dentist vs. Oral Surgeon

• A dentist may charge more, but they are better equipped to handle complicated cases.
• Referrals from a general dentist may influence where and how procedures are billed.

5. Geographic Location

• Urban areas, such as Toronto, Ottawa, or Mississauga, often have higher rates.
• Smaller towns like Barrie may offer slightly lower fees.

Dr. Amir Guorgui, BSC, DMD, MACSD, notes, "An impacted wisdom tooth buried deep in the bone requires surgical precision, often involving sedation and advanced tools — this adds to the cost but ensures a safer outcome."

Comparison: Wisdom Tooth Extraction vs Regular Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extractions are generally more expensive than routine extractions due to complexity, sedation, and surgical requirements.

Why the difference? Wisdom teeth are typically more deeply embedded or misaligned. Surgical tools, X-rays, and sedation contribute to the elevated cost.

How can dental insurance affect the price of wisdom tooth extraction?

Insurance can dramatically reduce out-of-pocket costs — but the specifics depend on your plan.

Insurance Coverage Details

• Basic dental plans: May cover 70–90% of simple extractions.
• Comprehensive plans: Often cover surgical extractions, sedation, and diagnostics.
• Annual limits: Some plans have annual caps ($1,000–$2,500).
• Waiting periods: 3–6 months for major dental procedures in some cases.

Specification Table: Insurance vs Out-of-Pocket

Does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal in Ontario?

Yes — but the extent of coverage depends on whether you have private insurance, employer group benefits, or government coverage.

1. Private and Employer Insurance Plans

Most private insurance plans in Ontario (e.g., through Manulife, Sun Life, Green Shield) cover:

• Simple extractions: 70–90%
• Surgical extractions: 50–90% depending on the plan
• Diagnostics and consultation: Often 100%

Some limitations:

• Annual dollar caps (e.g., $1,500 max/year)
• Limits on sedation coverage
• Preauthorization may be required for complex surgeries.

2. Government Dental Coverage

• Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP): Does not cover dental surgeries unless performed in a hospital for medical reasons.
• Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program: May cover extractions for qualifying low-income seniors.
• Healthy Smiles Ontario: Covers children under 17 in eligible low-income families for dental surgery.

How much is wisdom teeth removal for impacted teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth typically require a more expensive surgical extraction. Here's how the procedure breaks down:

Step-by-Step Guide to Surgical (Impacted) Extraction

1. Consultation & Imaging: Panoramic X-rays and evaluation — $80–$200
2. Sedation: Local anesthesia or IV sedation — $75–$1,000
3. Surgical removal: Specialist dissects gum and bone to extract the tooth — $350–$500 per tooth
4. Post-op care: Pain medication, gauze, and follow-ups may incur additional charges.

Specification Table: Simple vs Surgical Extractions

The complexity of the impaction significantly raises the price — especially if general anesthesia or a surgical suite is involved.

What payment options are available for wisdom teeth removal?

High costs can be a barrier, but several payment solutions are available in Ontario.

Payment Options from Barrie Smile Centre

According to Barrie Smile Centre, patients may access:

• 0% interest monthly payment plans
• PayBright dental financing for longer terms
• Custom in-house plans depending on procedure and credit approval

Are there risks or complications that affect the final price?

Unexpected complications can add to the total cost of wisdom tooth removal.

Common Post-Op Complications

• Dry socket: May require extra visits and dressing changes (~$50–$150)
• Infection or swelling: Antibiotics or follow-up visits (~$50–$200)
• Nerve damage or jaw stiffness: May require specialist follow-up

Cost-Influencing Factors

• Additional X-rays or diagnostics
• Extra anesthesia time or emergency care
• Missed work or delayed healing may require follow-up documentation.

What is the real average wisdom tooth extraction cost in Ontario?

After accounting for simple vs. surgical removals, insurance, and post-op care, the average cost of wisdom tooth extraction in Ontario is:

Summary Table: Average Wisdom Tooth Extraction Costs

Final Thoughts

• Get multiple quotes: Costs vary greatly by clinic and surgeon.
• Confirm insurance eligibility: Understand what’s covered before booking.
• Prepare for follow-up care: Minor complications may raise final expenses.

Sources

• Canadian Dental Association
• Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI)
• Dentalcard Financing
• iFinance Canada