I am working on the assumption that all goes well with the perio and that the ortho decides to do extractions (both consults so far have mentioned that extractions will probably be needed, 2 or probably 4). So I called the guy who pulled my wisdom teeth 6 years ago and tried to make an appointment for soon after my consult so I can keep things rolling. Of course, the receptionist wasn't sure what to do with me when I called and asked for an appointment for "probably 2-4 premolar extractions." But we finally got it booked for the day after the ortho consult.
She quoted me a price of $225 per tooth. I looked at the "dental cost calculator" online, and for "simple extractions" they are saying the national average is $100 per tooth, and the highest fees nationwide are $175 per tooth, but these are as of 2004. So of course I'm wondering if they are charging me an arm and a leg to take my teeth... They aren't impacted at all. Just happy little premolars taking up too much room in my mouth.
Also, I asked about anesthesia. She said that the price includes the local injections. They don't do IV sedation with erupted premolars. The gas isn't covered by insurance and is $50 out of pocket. I asked about a prescription for some sort of pill, and she said that they don't do that, but I could check with my regular doctor.
Now, I suppose that the IV sedation is probably overkill after reading about people's experiences, but I am truly freaking out about this. I am absolutely terrified of getting my teeth pulled. I had the IV sedation for my wisdoms (they were seriously impacted), so I never heard, felt, or saw a thing. But just the thought of them reaching in there and yanking out my teeth that are firmly anchored into place totally turns my stomach. I just don't know how I would be able to sit there with just the local without jumping out of the chair and running out of the room! I guess I'm not afraid of pain so much as just entirely grossed out by the whole idea. So I'd love some sedation of some sort in addition to the local.
So I'm wondering...
1. What is the typical cost of premolar extractions per tooth (is $225 too much to pay)?
2. Was anybody else this freaked out by the whole thing, did you do any sort of sedation, and how on earth did you make it through without being tied down???
I guess £225 does sound a lot so maybe you should shop around, especially as they can't offer you the sedation you might like. 
) I think I just found a very "zen" place in my head where I thought about what getting the extractions done meant in the wider scheme of things: getting braced and getting a smile to be proud of. Needles usually bring me out in a cold sweat and copious tears for days before but I just got on with it - I found humming my favourite songs in my head over and over reallly helped, however weird that sounds! It was all over in minutes (50 for 4 premolars) - the only thing that grossed me out a little bit was feeling the roots "crunch" as (I guess) they broke off but by that point I'd told myself not to care and it's only a half second thing. I did get the nitrous oxide though and can recommend it - you're still aware of what's going on but it all seems somewhat muffled and distant and not quite real. Like being drunk! You will surprise yourself with what you can get through in order to get your perfect smile, the inner strength will step up when you need it. But if it will make you calmer do shop around to see if another dentist can offer you what you're looking for - at a better price! And finding a dentist with a good bedside manner will mean the world to you too, make sure it's someone you feel comfortable with.
