Wisdom teeth extraction, a common yet often costly and painful procedure undergone by millions of Americans annually, may soon become a thing of the past. TriAgenics, an innovative dental technology company, has developed a groundbreaking solution that could potentially eliminate the need for this invasive surgery altogether.
With over 10 million wisdom teeth extracted each year in the United States, the procedure represents a significant burden on both individuals and the healthcare system. The average cost of removing a single impacted wisdom tooth is around $700, with the total expense for extracting all four often exceeding $3,000. These figures don’t account for potential complications or lost productivity, as patients typically miss three days of work or school following the procedure.
TriAgenics’ Zero3 Tooth Bud Ablation (TBA) technology offers a preventative approach to wisdom teeth management. Unlike traditional extraction methods, which remove fully developed teeth, Zero3 TBA targets tooth buds in children aged 6 to 12, preventing wisdom teeth from forming in the first place. The procedure is minimally invasive, taking just 60 to 90 seconds per tooth bud and about 30 minutes for all four.
One of the key advantages of Zero3 TBA is its potential to reduce costs and risks associated with wisdom teeth management. At approximately $950 per tooth, it is significantly less expensive than traditional extraction methods. Moreover, the procedure can be performed by general dentists rather than oral surgeons, potentially increasing accessibility and further reducing costs.
The comparative benefits of Zero3 TBA become even more apparent when considering other treatment options. Prophylactic extraction, typically performed between ages 15 and 25, costs around $1,800 per tooth and carries moderate risks. The ‘monitor and treat’ approach, which involves addressing issues as they arise, can cost up to $2,800 per tooth and poses the highest risk, particularly for older patients.
TriAgenics reports a 100% success rate in animal trials for their Zero3 TBA technology. The company has raised over $11.5 million in capital and holds 32 U.S. and international patents. They are now preparing for FDA 510(k) clearance and human clinical trials, with the aim of bringing Zero3 TBA to market in 2025.
The potential impact of this technology on the dental industry is substantial. TriAgenics estimates the total addressable market for Zero3 TBA to exceed $2.5 billion annually. If successful, this innovation could transform the standard of care for wisdom teeth management, shifting the focus from reactive surgery to proactive prevention.
For millions of Americans facing the prospect of wisdom teeth extraction, TriAgenics’ Zero3 TBA technology represents a promising alternative. By potentially eliminating the need for painful and costly extractions, this innovation could significantly reduce the financial and physical burden associated with wisdom teeth management, marking a new era in dental care.
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