When To See a Dentist vs Oral Surgeon for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Tooth position and extraction complexity determine whether wisdom teeth can be removed by a dentist or require an oral surgeon. Simple cases may be handled by a general dentist, while impacted or surgically complex teeth require oral surgery.

Why See an Oral Surgeon For Wisdom Teeth Removal

An oral surgeon is recommended when wisdom teeth removal involves surgical complexity or higher risk. This typically includes situations where specialized surgical training, advanced imaging, or deeper anesthesia is required to remove the tooth safely and predictably.

Wisdom teeth removal is typically referred to an oral surgeon when:

• The wisdom tooth is impacted under gum or bone
• Bone removal or tooth sectioning is necessary
• The tooth is close to the inferior alveolar nerve or sinus cavity
• Roots are curved, fused, or anatomically complex
• Infection, cysts, or other pathology is present
• IV sedation or deeper anesthesia is required

When A Dentist Can Remove Wisdom Teeth

A general dentist may remove wisdom teeth when the dental procedure is straightforward, low risk, and does not involve surgical access or bone removal.

This usually applies when:

• The tooth is fully erupted
• The tooth is positioned upright and easy to access
• No bone removal is required
• The roots are simple and not near major nerves or sinuses

In these cases, removal is comparable to extracting a routine molar.

Do You Need a Referral to See an Oral Surgeon?

A referral is not required to schedule an evaluation with an oral surgeon. However, some dental insurance plans require a referral from a general dentist for wisdom teeth removal to be covered. 

Coverage varies by plan and procedure. When insurance does not apply or only covers a portion of treatment, health spending accounts may be used to pay for eligible oral surgery expenses, including anesthesia and surgical fees. 

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Vaughan, ON

Concord Oral Surgery offers wisdom teeth removal in Vaughan, ON for patients who require surgical care. Dentists may refer patients directly using our referral form.

We serve Vaughan and surrounding communities, including Richmond Hill, Woodbridge, Maple, Thornhill, and Concord.  To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Vaughan, ON, call (905) 669-2616 or visit us at 3300 Highway 7 West, Suite 805 Vaughan, ON.

FAQs