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How should I compare itemized quotes for my child’s four wisdom teeth?
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My child has all four wisdom teeth recommended for removal, and some are impacted according to the initial assessment. One oral surgeon gave us a surprisingly low extraction fee, but I’m worried it may cover only the surgical portion.
What should I ask each office to itemize before comparing quotes?
- Consultation and examination
- Panoramic X-ray or 3D imaging
- Local anesthetic, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or general anesthesia
- Removal of all four teeth, including any impacted or more difficult teeth
- Possible surgical-complexity fees
- Pathology, if a tooth or tissue is sent for examination
- Prescriptions and other medications
- Post-operative checks, suture removal, or treatment of complications
Should the quote also say whether follow-up visits are included and what happens if extra imaging or a longer sedation time is needed? I’d also like to know whether prescriptions are billed separately and whether the office can provide a written estimate showing the expected total, not just the extraction fee.
For parents who compared several quotes, which missing charge made the biggest difference?