Extractions before/during braces

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#1 Post by **jdwallac** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 8:46 am

Hey all, I'm new. I'm 20 years old and starting the process of braces on Monday (records). I'm SO excited and not worried/scared/embarrassed at all. I'm just happy to get my crooked teeth fixed.

Anyway, at my consultation she told me I may need some extractions (vs. widening my arch), but she isn't sure until she does the records. I was given a price that includes records, retainers and "everything done in this office." IF by chance I do need extractions (likely 4 bicuspids, 2 bottom, 2 top) will I have to go to a surgeon and pay them, or is it included? I can't afford anything more but the price I was quoted, at least not until January. Anyone have experience with getting their extractions 4 months after the braces were put on? I'll be getting 2 wisdom teeth taken out in January, as well. I will just be so devastated if I have to wait even LONGER to get my braces, and I'm unsure if orthos do the extraction of healthy, adult teeth.

#2 Post by **catgyrl** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 9:30 am

Hi jdwallac-

Welcome to the Archwired Forums! You sound like you have a great attitude, which will carry you very far in your braces journey.

I, too, had to have an extraction done after I had my braces put on. Orthodontists don't do extractions, so you will either have to have your regular dentist do it (if he/she does such things; mine doesn't anymore), or else you will more than likely be referred to an oral surgeon. The oral surgeon's charges will be separate from your orthodontic charges. Do you have dental insurance, or are you covered under your parents' insurance? My dental plan covers 70% of extractions, I believe. The cost of the extraction depends on which tooth (some teeth are more expensive than others due to their size and/or difficulty in removing)

I got my extraction done about 3 weeks after getting braced, so it didn't make much difference in my treatment time. It was only one tooth, and he didn't have to remove any brackets or wires to extract the tooth. However, if you'll have to wait 4 months in order to save up the money to get the extractions... I would put off getting the braces until you can afford everything. You will be surprised at how much movement your teeth can make in 4 months, and if you then get 4 teeth extracted AFTER getting braced, it could possibly change your treatment time drastically. Ask your orthodontist what his/her opinion is.

Just my uneducated advice. I feel for you. These things are so darn expensive!!

Good luck to you!
-Cathy

#3 Post by **akc** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 8:37 pm

I had my extractions done after my braces were already on. Orthodonist wanted me to do it right away. I had my braces on for about a month and a half when I had my teeth pulled. Took time to set an appointment with an oral surgeon and then set the date for the surgery. I had three wisdom teeth pulled and four baby teeth. The charges for extractions are separate from the braces at the orthodonist. It can be expensive depending on what you are getting done and how they do it. You might look into care credit. I used it for my extractions at the oral surgeon. It is like a credit card but for medical needs. I was able to use my care credit and I pay no interest if paid within 12 months. Hope this helps! Good luck:)

#4 Post by **akc** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 8:39 pm

They do sometimes extract healthy adult teeth if necessary.

#5 Post by **chelssea** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 11:31 pm

I had 8 extractions a month after getting braces on - 4 impacted wisdom teeth and 4 bicuspids. That's just how my ortho preferred to do it - especially with severe crowding. It has also been about a month since extraction surgery and I can notice my teeth moving so much more! The lower wisdom tooth sites are still healing and all worries that I had about 4 huge gaps in my smile have washed away; I feel so beautiful in braces.

As far as cost goes, discuss options with your ortho - they tend to have various payment options. Oral surgeons also have options for costs that insurance doesn't cover. Luckily my insurance covered more than expected for my extraction surgery and now I'm expecting a refund from them.

Good luck!

#6 Post by **BraceFace2o1o** » Sat Sep 18, 2010 2:06 am

Extractions aren't normally included in the overall price, as you would have to pay your dentist or an oral surgeon, so it's an extra cost.

I know how you feel, as I too am worried I will need extractions. I barely have the money for a brace, and if I find out I will need extractions... I will somehow have to get another lot of money together. All this can end up being pretty expensive! (I am in the UK and do not have insurance).

#7 Post by **akc** » Sat Sep 18, 2010 10:10 am

Chelsea,

How long did it take for you to start feeling better after the extractions? It has been a week for me and I am still feeling pain in my jaw. Also, now that I have my wire back in, my teeth are starting to hurt! I felt a little better reading your post, thanks:) I have some gaps that make me feel self conscious but I am really hoping they close soon! Plus, I have an adult tooth that needs to be pulled into place where a baby tooth was just pulled (haven't started that process yet). This has brought my spirits down because it hurts so much!!! I can't wait to feel normal again.

#8 Post by **Lynette** » Sat Sep 18, 2010 9:17 pm

The first time I had braces I had 2 molars removed before treatment and one tooth on the bottom at the front removed. This was all done at the dentist.

I need to get my wisdom teeth out surgically, but my ortho said I can get them taken out any time during my orthodontic treatment.