Wisdom teeth questions, answered
Straight answers about wisdom teeth removal, sedation, cost and recovery. Don't see your question? Ask your office when you call.
About Dr. Dansie
How experienced is Dr. Dansie?
He has removed more than 45,000 wisdom teeth over his career. Wisdom teeth removal and extractions are the focus of his practice, at partner dental offices across Utah.
Why is he called The Molarnator?
It's the name of Dr. Dansie's practice, a nod to the molars he removes.
Where does Dr. Dansie see patients?
At 11 partner dental offices in Pleasant Grove, Orem, Payson, Salina, Riverton, Draper, West Jordan, West Valley City, Grantsville and Layton. Find your office.
Do I need a referral?
No. Call the partner office nearest you directly. Many patients are also sent by their dentist or orthodontist.
How do I book?
Call the partner office nearest you and ask for a wisdom teeth appointment with Dr. Dansie. Each office books its own appointments on the days he works there.
Who does my cleanings, fillings and other care?
The dentists at the office. Dr. Dansie only removes wisdom teeth and other teeth.
Wisdom teeth
When should wisdom teeth come out?
If your wisdom teeth are crowded, crooked or impacted, Dr. Dansie usually recommends removing them between ages 16 and 25. An x-ray shows whether yours need to come out.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
A wisdom tooth that's trapped in the jawbone or gum because there isn't room for it to come in. Impacted teeth can be painful and hard to clean, so Dr. Dansie generally recommends removing them.
Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?
No. Wisdom teeth that come in straight, with enough room, can be useful. Removal is recommended when they're misaligned or impacted.
Will it hurt?
Your mouth is numbed before anything starts, and you can add oral or IV sedation. Some soreness and swelling for a few days afterward is normal. Your aftercare sheet covers what to take for it.
Sedation
What sedation options are there?
Local anesthetic (you're awake and numb), oral sedation (a pill that relaxes you) and IV sedation (most patients sleep through the visit). Compare them.
Do I need a driver?
Yes, if you have oral or IV sedation. An adult must drive you home. With local anesthetic only, you can usually drive yourself.
Is Dr. Dansie certified to give IV sedation?
Yes. He is certified through Rocky Mountain Sedation to give IV sedation, and is also certified to offer oral sedation.
Cost and insurance
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
It depends on how many teeth come out, whether they're impacted, and the sedation you choose. After your exam and x-ray, the office tells you your cost before your removal visit.
Does insurance cover it?
Most dental plans cover part of it, especially when teeth are impacted. The office checks your benefits for you before your visit.
Do you offer payment plans?
Ask your office about payment plans when you book. Insurance and payment.
Recovery
How long is recovery?
Most people feel back to normal within a few days. Rest for the first 24 hours, eat soft food, and follow the aftercare steps.
What can I eat afterward?
Soft or liquid food for the first 24 hours, such as mashed potatoes, ice cream, pudding, Jell-O and juice. Avoid very hot food and drinks, and don't use a straw.
What is a dry socket?
Bone pain that can happen when the blood clot in the socket comes loose. Protect it by not using straws, not smoking, and not rinsing on the first day.