For many patients, wisdom tooth removal is necessary for oral health. It’s not surprising, then, that one common question we hear is whether OHIP covers the cost of these kinds of oral surgeries.
While OHIP may cover certain oral surgeries performed in a hospital, it generally does not pay for wisdom tooth removal in a dental clinic. This guide explains OHIP’s role in dental surgery, the costs you can expect, and the payment options available to you.
Why You Might Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to come in. For many people, there isn’t enough room in their jaw for these teeth to grow in properly. This can lead to a variety of oral health issues that make removal a practical choice.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are a Problem
You may need your wisdom teeth removed if you experience some of the following symptoms:
- Pain or stiffness in your jaw near the back of your mouth
- Irritation or pain from a tooth rubbing against your cheek or tongue
- An infected flap of gum tissue over the tooth, known as pericoronitis
- Crowding of your other teeth
- Damage or decay in the neighbouring molar
The Risk of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
An impacted tooth is one that’s stuck under the gum or has only partially broken through. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at an angle, sometimes even horizontally. This can cause significant pain, damage to adjacent teeth, and may lead to cysts that can harm the jawbone.
The Role of OHIP in Dental Surgery
Understanding what OHIP covers is key to planning for your procedure. While OHIP pays for many medical needs, it only covers specific dental work.
When OHIP May Cover Your Procedure
OHIP does not typically cover routine dental care that happens in a dental office. However, it may cover some oral surgeries if they are performed in a hospital.
For wisdom tooth removal to be considered for OHIP coverage, the procedure must be medically necessary, meaning it requires a hospital setting due to the complexity of the extraction.
What OHIP Does Not Cover
Most wisdom tooth removals happen at a dental clinic, and these procedures are not covered by OHIP. You should expect that OHIP will not pay for the extraction itself, the sedation, or any related fees from your dentist.
Even if the procedure is done in a hospital, OHIP may only cover the hospital’s costs (like the stay), but not the dental surgeon’s fee.
The Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal in Ontario
Since OHIP coverage is rare, it’s important to budget for the cost of wisdom tooth removal. The price can change based on several factors, including how complex the procedure is.
Factors That Affect the Price
The total cost of your extraction depends on a few things:
- Number of Teeth: The price will increase with each tooth you need removed.
- Impaction: A simple extraction of a fully erupted tooth costs less than removing an impacted tooth.
- Sedation: The type of sedation you choose, from oral to IV sedation, will affect the final bill.
- Diagnostics: Costs for X-rays or other imaging are usually separate.
Average Cost Per Tooth & For All 4
In Ontario, a simple wisdom tooth extraction can cost between $200 and $400 per tooth. For a more complex or surgical extraction, the cost can be $450 to over $750 per tooth.
If you need all four wisdom teeth removed, the total cost could range from $1,500 to over $2,000.
Planning for Wisdom Tooth Removal
The cost of wisdom tooth removal can be a concern. Fortunately, you have several options to help manage the expense beyond OHIP.
Your Private Dental Insurance Plan
Most private dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of wisdom tooth removal costs. At Markham Dental, we accept all major insurance companies and offer direct billing to make the process simple for you. It’s a good idea to review your policy to understand your coverage limits before your procedure.
Payment Plans & Other Options
We believe you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your oral health because of money. That’s why our clinic offers financing solutions. This allows you to spread the cost over time, making the treatment more accessible.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
For those who qualify, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) can help cover dental costs. This federal program is designed for Canadian residents who have a household income under a certain threshold and do not have private dental insurance. The CDCP can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for procedures like wisdom tooth extractions.
The Extraction Process at a Dentist in Markham, ON
When you’re ready to address your wisdom teeth, the process is straightforward. A trusted dental team can guide you through each step to help you feel comfortable.
Your Initial Consultation & X-Rays
The first step is a consultation with your dentist. We will examine your mouth and take X-rays to see the position of your wisdom teeth. From there, we can determine if removal is the right course of action.
Types of Extraction Procedures
Depending on your needs, the procedure will be a simple or surgical extraction. A simple extraction is for a tooth that is visible above the gumline. A surgical extraction is needed for impacted teeth and involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
Flexible Hours for Your Busy Schedule
We know that your time is valuable. That’s why we offer convenient evening and Saturday appointments to fit your busy schedule. With our online booking calendar, you can schedule your consultation at a time that works for you, without disrupting your work week.
While OHIP coverage for wisdom tooth removal is limited, you have many other options for managing the cost and procedure. From private insurance and the CDCP to flexible financing, taking care of your oral health can fit within your budget.
At Markham Dental, our team is here to help you navigate the process with convenient appointment times that work for you.If you’re experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth, book a consultation with us today using our online calendar. We can discuss your treatment options and find a solution that fits your life.
Specialty Servicesfor Every Smile
Sleep Better, Breathe Better
Start your home sleep study today with no family doctor referral needed. Through our partnership with Resolve Health, you can complete a convenient WatchPAT ONE home sleep test from the comfort of your home, followed by personalized care from our team.
From oral appliances and CPAP support to myofunctional therapy and airway-focused treatment, we provide comprehensive solutions for children and adults.
Train Your Muscles, Improve Your Sleep
Our myofunctional therapy programs retrain the tongue, lips, and facial muscles to support nasal breathing, reduce snoring, and improve airway function. We work with children and adults to build long-term habits that benefit sleep, oral posture, and facial development.
Straighten Teeth, Support Healthy Breathing
We offer comprehensive orthodontic care for all ages, including braces and Invisalign. Beyond aesthetics, our approach improves bite, jaw function, and airway health, helping both children and adults achieve a healthy, functional smile.
Relieve Jaw Discomfort and Improve Function
Our TMJ treatment addresses jaw discomfort, clenching, and muscle tension using tailored therapies. From bite adjustments to neuromodulator support, we focus on restoring jaw function and reducing discomfort for a better quality of life.
Relax Facial Muscles, Improve Comfort
Neuromodulator treatments like Jeuveau/Neuceiva can reduce tension in the jaw and face, relieve TMJ discomfort, treat migraines, and refine fine lines. Our team customizes treatments for both therapeutic and aesthetic benefits.
Replace Missing Teeth with Stability and Function
Our dental implant services, including all-on-4 implants, restore missing or damaged teeth for a secure, natural-feeling smile. Implants support bite function, improve chewing and speaking, and prevent bone loss. Our team provides personalized planning, guided surgery, and ongoing support for long-lasting results.
What SetsMarkham Dental Apart
We approach your care differently, with a focus on health, function, and long-term prevention. At Markham Dental, we are:
We look beyond your teeth, incorporating assessments like blood pressure, airway and tongue analysis, and sleep screening to better understand how your oral health connects to your overall well-being.
With denturists, prosthodontists, orthodontists, and general dentists working together, your care is coordinated, comprehensive, and tailored to your needs.
Every exam is designed to be in-depth and intentional, with advanced assessments included at no additional cost, so nothing is overlooked.
What Our PatientsAre Saying
Come Visit Usin Markham
You can find us on Woodbine Avenue, with plenty of parking available outside the clinic. We look forward to seeing you!
Our Address
- 8241 Woodbine Ave, Unit 17
- Markham, ON L3R 2P1
Contact Information
- Phone: (905) 470-0220
- Fax: 289-806-1423
- Email: info@markhamdentalhw.com
Hours of Operation
Markham Dental
- 8241 Woodbine Ave, Unit 17
- Markham, ON L3R 2P1
- Phone: (905) 470-0220
- Fax: 289-806-1423
- Email: info@markhamdentalhw.com