Does wisdom teeth removal count as medical expense?
Asked by: Concepcion Stracke | Last update: November 21, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (2 votes)
Is wisdom teeth removal a qualified medical expense?
Wisdom tooth extraction is eligible with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA). Wisdom tooth extraction is not eligible with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).
Does wisdom teeth removal count as surgery on medical forms?
Wisdom teeth removal can sometimes count as oral surgery. Whether or not you'll need oral surgery to extract wisdom teeth will depend on the position of your wisdom teeth and whether they have already erupted through the gum line.
Does wisdom teeth removal count as dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans do offer some level of benefits for wisdom teeth extractions. Benefits for wisdom teeth extractions can typically range from 50% to 80% of the dentist's or oral surgeon's fees. They are typically also subject to deductibles and co-pays.
Is wisdom tooth extraction claimable?
Our dentists will examine your teeth and let you know if the wisdom tooth can be removed via a routine extraction or surgery. You cannot use MediSave for a routine extraction. Only wisdom teeth that are surgically removed are claimable via the CPF MediSave account.
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How much does medical cover for wisdom teeth removal?
While dental insurance plans generally cover about 50% to 80% of the costs of wisdom teeth removal and often the associated sedation or general anesthesia depending on the plan and the specific circumstances, you will be responsible for a co-payment 2.
Can you claim wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is covered on Top Extras, Mid Extras and StarterPak (Basic Plus), but only if your dentist does the extraction at their practice. Depending on how complex the extraction is, you can usually claim it under Major Dental with your Extras cover.
Why won't my insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?
Age restrictions. Some dental insurance policies have age restrictions around wisdom teeth removal. In particular, a plan meant for children or young adults could provide different coverage for wisdom teeth removal than some adult plans. The medical necessity of wisdom teeth removal can also vary by age.
How much should wisdom teeth removal cost?
Having wisdom teeth removed can cost between $200 and $1,100 per tooth, depending on the condition of the teeth and whether you have all four removed at once. Impacted teeth cost more since they're harder to remove and typically require sedation. But there are several other factors that can impact the cost.
Does wisdom teeth removal count as preventive care?
Types of procedures
Sometimes procedures like wisdom teeth removal are considered preventative dentistry as well, since taking them out early can help you prevent complications later.
Why do experts now say not to remove your wisdom teeth?
According to some studies, not removing your wisdom teeth can improve chewing effectiveness, assisting with the digestion and breakdown of food particles. Furthermore, wisdom teeth can support neighboring teeth, possibly preventing the crowding and shifting that were once thought to be inevitable.
What is a wisdom tooth removal classified as?
In general, this type of procedure would be an out-patient oral surgery. If the wisdom teeth have erupted, you may only need a simple extraction. This would involve your dentist using a tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth. Next, they would extract the tooth with dental forceps.
Does tooth extraction fall under dental or medical?
Surgical dental extractions are considered dental in nature. They are typically covered under an Aetna dental plan. There are exceptions, however. To verify whether your dental or medical plan may cover surgical extractions, call Member Services.
Can I write off dental expenses?
The IRS allows you to deduct unreimbursed payments for preventative care, treatment, surgeries, dental and vision care, visits to psychologists and psychiatrists, prescription medications, appliances such as glasses, contacts, false teeth and hearing aids, and expenses that you pay to travel for qualified medical care.
What proof do I need to deduct medical expenses?
- What medical care was received.
- Who received the care.
- The nature and purpose of any medical expenses.
- The amount of the other medical expenses.
Can you buy shampoo with HSA?
Over-the-counter toiletries or personal hygiene items which may include, but are not limited to shampoo, toothpaste, conditioners, hand creams, deodorant, shaving cream, razors, dental floss, body powders, hair gels/sprays, make-up, nail polish accessories, soap, mouthwash, etc., are not reimbursable.
What is the cheapest way to get wisdom teeth removed?
There are broadly two types of wisdom tooth extraction: simple and surgical. A simple wisdom tooth extraction is easy to perform and is quite similar to regular tooth extraction. Simple extraction should cost approximately $100 dollars per tooth. It involves local anesthesia rather than general anesthesia.
How much does insurance cover for wisdom teeth removal?
On average, wisdom tooth removal can cost between $75 and $200 per tooth with insurance. This range typically includes simple extractions but may rise for surgical extractions or impacted teeth. For more complex cases, the cost may go up to $500 per tooth, even with insurance coverage.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth extraction?
You can return to normal activities on the day after treatment. If you have more complex surgery, there is likely to be more pain and discomfort. Everyone recovers differently, but the average recovery time from more complex wisdom tooth removal is 2 to 4 days.
What category does wisdom teeth fall under for insurance?
In general, dental insurance is more likely to cover wisdom teeth extraction since it is considered a dental procedure. Medical insurance may cover the extraction if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases where the wisdom teeth are causing infection or other health issues.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost with general anesthesia?
Simple wisdom teeth extractions can range from $250 to $400 per tooth, An oral surgeon's extraction of impacted wisdom teeth can cost between $450 and $600 per tooth. If you opt for a general anesthetic to remove your wisdom teeth, the cost can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth.
How painful is wisdom teeth removal?
Surgery to remove wisdom teeth shouldn't be painful, because the area will be numb. However, if you feel pain during the procedure, tell your dentist or oral surgeon so they can give you more anaesthetic. How long it takes to remove the tooth will vary.
Is wisdom teeth a medical expense?
Yes, you can deduct unreimbursed medical /insurance expenses paid out of pocket if you itemize and the total expenses for you, your spouse, and your dependents exceed 7.5 % of your adjusted gross income.
Is wisdom teeth removal considered basic or major?
Root canals and wisdom teeth could be classified as basic or major, depending on your plan and the nature of the work being done. Be sure to check your plan if you're going to get one of these procedures done!
Why is wisdom teeth removal so expensive?
The process of wisdom teeth removal, including the consultation with an oral surgeon, can be a bit expensive due to their specialized training and expertise. A simple extraction procedure by a regular dentist usually costs less, but in complex cases, an oral surgeon's involvement is necessary.