Understanding Cost of Tooth Extraction Costs

Have you been told by your dentist that you need a tooth extracted? If so, you are not alone. Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that is performed to treat a variety of dental issues, such as severe tooth decay or damage, trauma, infection, periodontal gum disease, crowding, and tooth impaction. Tooth extraction may be recommended as a preventative measure, such as extracting retained baby teeth to prevent problems with the eruption of permanent teeth.

Need to know how much does a tooth extraction cost? The cost of tooth extraction can depend on factors such as the complexity of the extraction, dentist’s location and expertise, and office equipment and materials used. In this article we will go into the many details of the costs and procedures involved in tooth extraction.

Reasons for Tooth Extraction

There are several possible conditions that may require tooth extraction. A dentist may recommend tooth extraction for the following reasons:

Common Indications for Tooth Removal

- Severe tooth decay
Severe tooth decay weakens the tooth and surrounding oral structures, leading to possible tooth loss. Tooth decay is commonly caused by an accumulation of harmful bacteria that can cause infection that can spread throughout the body. If the tooth is beyond repair with dental restorations (i.e. root canal, crowns), tooth extraction may be necessary.

- Crowded teeth
If severe teeth crowding is present, teeth may need to be extracted to allow for proper teeth and bite alignment. An orthodontist may recommend teeth extractions as a part of orthodontic treatment (i.e. braces, aligners).

- Tooth infections (abscesses)
Severe tooth infections, including dental abscesses, may require tooth extraction to eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading systemically. Dental abscesses present as a pocket of pus, which is caused by a bacterial infection.

- Trauma or injury
Trauma or injury to a tooth can result in extensive tooth damage that may not be able to be repaired with dental restorations.

Understanding the Necessity of Extraction

Your dental professional will thoroughly evaluate your oral condition to determine the best treatment options for your individual dental needs. Tooth extraction may be the best option in cases of severe tooth decay or damage, trauma or injury, infection, advanced gum disease, or extreme overcrowding, for instance.

If the tooth’s prognosis is good to fair, possible alternatives to extraction, such as fillings, root canals, and crowns may be possible treatment options to save the tooth. Teeth fillings are commonly used to fix minor tooth decay or damage. Root canal therapy may be indicated for teeth suffering from mild to moderate infection or inflammation. Root canal treated teeth are often protected from further damage and infection by dental crowns, which restores the tooth's shape, size, and function.

Breakdown of Tooth Extraction Costs

In this section we will discuss tooth extraction cost based on various factors. Continue reading to learn more.

Price Variations by Region

The cost of tooth extraction can differ based on where you live. Tooth removal cost is influenced by the region of the U.S. you are located. In addition, urban areas tend to have higher costs of living which can drive dental extraction cost higher than more rural areas with lower costs of living.

Factors Influencing Costs

Tooth extraction cost is also influenced by factors including the complexity of the extraction, type of dental specialist performing the procedure, and dental office equipment and materials used for the procedure. Simple extractions typically involve the removal of teeth that are fully erupted in the mouth and easy to access, often only requiring local anesthesia to be removed. On the other hand, a surgical extraction is a more complex procedure involving the removal of teeth that are severely decayed or damaged, hard to access, or are located under the gum or bone (impacted teeth). As a result, surgical extractions tend to have higher costs than simple extractions, as they may require more procedure time, special equipment, and the use of additional anesthesia/sedation options.

You can also expect higher fees for extractions performed by oral surgeons, who have additional expertise and specialization training, compared to general dentists. You may be referred to oral surgeons for more complex procedures, such as surgical extractions and for the removal of wisdom teeth.

Insurance Considerations for Tooth Extraction

Dental insurance can significantly impact tooth removal cost. Here’s what you need to know:

Tooth Extraction Costs with Insurance

How much to pull a tooth with dental insurance? Tooth extraction cost will depend on your specific dental insurance plan’s coverage. In general, most dental insurances cover between 50%-80% of the costs for simple and surgical extractions that are deemed medically necessary. It is important to review your coverage details, including deductibles and co-pays. With many dental insurance plans, you will likely need to pay a specific deductible amount out-of-pocket before your insurance pays their designated amount for the procedure. In addition, you may have a required co-payment, a fixed amount that you will need to pay out-of-pocket at the time of service.

Costs without Insurance

How much is a tooth extraction without dental insurance? On average without dental insurance a simple extraction procedure costs between $75-$300 per tooth, and $180-$800 for surgical and wisdom tooth extraction per tooth. Tooth extraction charges may seem daunting without insurance, but thankfully there are many additional options to make the cost of tooth extraction affordable. First, speak with your dental professional about possible payment options, discounts, or financing options through third-party organizations like CareCredit. Your dentist may recommend community resources, dental clinics, or dental schools in your area that offer reduced-cost services.

Tooth Extraction Procedure and Aftercare

There are several steps involved in tooth extraction. Take a look below:

Steps Involved in Tooth Extraction

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Evaluation

Whether you are at your routine dental check-up or an emergency dental exam, your dentist will evaluate your oral cavity and determine if tooth extraction is necessary. During the evaluation, your dentist will record your medical and dental history, perform diagnostic X-rays, and may perform other tests such as testing your tooth in question for tenderness, pain, sensitivity, and mobility. Based on their findings, your dentist will discuss the diagnosis and determine if you are a candidate for tooth extraction.

Step 2: Dental Anesthesia

All anesthetic and sedative options, including local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia will be discussed prior to your procedure based on your specific needs. At the start of your procedure, the chosen anesthetic or sedative option will be used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.

Step 3: Extraction

Your dentist will then use special tools and equipment to loosen your tooth from its socket. Once loose, your tooth will be removed, and the extraction side is cleaned and disinfected.

In some cases, sutures may be used to help the gums heal. Some tooth extractions may also be accompanied with a bone graft procedure, in which bone is added to the extraction site to promote bone growth.

Aftercare Guidelines

Post-extraction care is important for proper healing. It is important to follow all instructions given by your dental professional to prevent serious complications. In general, you should avoid smoking, using straws, and rinsing/spitting with force to prevent complications like dry socket, infection, and damage to the extraction site. Allow blood clot formation at the extraction site and avoid disrupting it for proper healing. Do your best to keep the extraction site clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water and maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent infection. To control bleeding, bite firmly on a gauze pad. Stick to a soft foods diet and avoid spicy, chewy, sticky, and hard foods for several days following tooth extraction. Be sure you are staying hydrated with water.

For the first 24-48 hours you should rest and avoid strenuous activity. Symptoms typically disappear after a few days to a week, at which time you should feel back to your normal self. Complete healing of the extraction site may take several months.

Complications and Risks Associated with Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is considered a safe and effective procedure, however potential complications can occur. A well-known complication of tooth extraction is dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is disrupted, causing pain and discomfort. Other rare complications include sinus issues, damage to nearby teeth, bone damage, and nerve damage. Post-extraction you should monitor for signs and symptoms including pain and discomfort, swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, fever, pus, numbness and tingling, and difficulty opening your mouth and chewing.

Pain-Free, Expert Tooth Extractions at Great Lakes!

Still wondering how much is a tooth extraction? If you’re worried about tooth extraction cost, Great Lakes can offer you peace of mind with affordable expert tooth extraction services and dental care! With our flexible payment options and acceptance of over 200 dental insurance plans, the cost of tooth extraction can fit within most budgets. Contact us today to book an appointment with our team of expert dental specialists.