Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
We always do everything in our power to help patients keep their natural teeth. However, sometimes it isn’t a viable option. Here are some reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary to restore your overall dental health and function:
- There is severe, irreparable damage or decay to the tooth
- An extraction is needed for the long-term success of a restoration
- To allow for a patient to get orthodontic treatment
- If a tooth is impacted and unable to properly erupt
- When a primary tooth won’t fall out on its own
- If there isn’t enough room in the mouth to accommodate wisdom teeth
The Process of Removing a Tooth
Teeth are removed by one of two methods: pulling and surgical extraction. Teeth are only “pulled” when they have fully emerged from the gumline. In this case, we will begin by numbing the area around your tooth and using a clasping tool to shift the tooth around until it breaks away from the gumline. If pulling a tooth isn’t possible, the tooth will need to be surgically extracted. For this procedure, a small incision is made into your gum tissue, allowing us to reach your tooth and remove it completely.
To determine the ideal extraction method for you, we need to closely examine your smile in person. If necessary for your case, we will also discuss tooth replacement options to prevent complications of tooth loss.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Before you leave our practice, we will provide you with a specific aftercare plan to prevent complications and remain comfortable. Everyone’s case is different, but here are some of the key steps we recommend for a speedy recovery:
- Rinse with saltwater 24 hours after your procedure
- Avoid using tobacco products until your mouth has healed
- Elevate your head while sleeping
- Get plenty of rest
- Take recommended over-the-counter and prescribed medications as directed
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Stay away from hard, crunchy, and sticky foods until the area heals
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions can always be a bit nerve-wracking, even under the absolute best of circumstances. We work hard to help our patients remain comfortable for the duration of their treatment with us, which is part of why we have made paying for your dental care as easy as possible.
We’ll be sure to give you a complete estimate for what your dental care will cost when we meet you in person, but until then, here’s what you should know about the factors that can affect what you pay for your dental care.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
The reason that it can be difficult to talk about what you’ll pay before we meet you in person is because there are several variables that can influence what your dental care is likely to cost. The biggest variable is the complexity of your procedure; the tougher your tooth extraction, the longer it will take and the more you’re likely to pay.
The more teeth you need to have removed, where they’re located in your mouth, and whether your teeth are impacted will determine how complex your tooth extraction is going to be. You should also think a little bit about how you’re going to replace the teeth that you’ve lost once they’re gone. The dental bridge, denture, or dental implant you use should be factored into your overall budget.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
In most circumstances, dental insurance will be willing to cover at least a portion of the cost of your tooth extraction. So long as you’ve met your deductible and have yet to exceed your yearly maximum, you can generally expect around 50% of the cost of your procedure to be covered.
Of course, this depends on your particular plan, so we’ll help you deal with your insurance company to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your dental benefits.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
However, we also know that not everyone has dental insurance. That being the case, we want to have options available that can make our care affordable for everyone, including those who are uninsured.
Many times, one of the hardest parts about paying for dental care is the need to pay the entire sum all at once. That’s why we work with CareCredit, a financing firm that can split up the cost of your services across several months. They offer low-to-no interest financing terms for patients who qualify, which can make the care that you receive fit your budget much more easily.
If you have any questions about paying for your tooth extraction, make an appointment with us. We’ll be happy to discuss all of your options with you at your consultation!
