Tooth Extractions Cambridge
Removing Severely Damaged & Compromised Teeth
If you are experiencing extreme sensitivity or are suffering from advanced periodontal (gum) disease, you may be required to have a tooth extraction. With tooth extraction in Cambridge, the dentist can safely remove the affected tooth.
Reasons for a Tooth Extraction
There are numerous situations in which a simple extraction can help alleviate pain or prepare you for another cosmetic or restorative procedure. Some common reasons for tooth extractions include:
- Advanced periodontal disease that has loosened the tooth roots
- Extra teeth or baby teeth that impede adult teeth
- Preparing a patient for orthodontic treatment
- Removing a fractured or malformed tooth
- Severe tooth decay which cannot be remedied with root canal therapy
What Is It Like to Get a Tooth Extraction?
As a precaution, the dentist will first take X-rays of the tooth or teeth in question, to help plan the procedure. After preparing a treatment plan, patients will be given a local anesthetic that will prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure.
Next, the dentist will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the base of the tooth. Finally, the dentist will use a pair of forceps to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free of the ligaments holding it in the gum tissue. Occasionally, a stubborn tooth will resist the dentist’s soft tug, refusing to come out. In these and more complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken up into smaller pieces for removal. Once removed, we will pack gauze into the socket and have you place pressure on the area by biting down. If necessary, the dentist will place stitches to close the socket.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
If you’re dealing with severe dental pain, you may be wondering: how much does it cost to pull a tooth? For some patients, the price might be the only thing standing between them and relief. However, the cost of tooth extractions can vary from case to case. At Harbor Dental Center, we want to make sure your dental care is accessible, so our team is happy to provide honest estimates, walk you through your options, and help you plan the next step.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
It’s nearly impossible to determine the exact cost of tooth extractions without a consultation first. During this appointment, Dr. Todd or Dr. Bhatt will evaluate the condition of your tooth, take digital X-rays, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. If a tooth extraction is recommended, they’ll provide a clear, personalized estimate so you know exactly what to expect.
Several factors we take into account when considering the final cost include:
- Location of the Tooth: Front teeth are often easier to remove than molars or teeth near the sinus.
- Number of Teeth Extracted: Removing several teeth at once increases the overall cost, though it may reduce per-visit fees.
- Type of Extraction: Simple extractions are less expensive and involve teeth that are fully visible and above the gumline. More complex work requires additional steps, so it’s more expensive.
- Tooth Replacement: There are multiple ways to restore an extracted tooth, like dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures—all of which have different price points.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
It’s incredibly common for dental insurance plans to include coverage for tooth extractions. In most cases, the procedure is classified as a basic or major service, covered at around 50%, once your deductible has been met for the year.
However, policies vary, so it’s important to review your specific plan benefits. If you’re unsure where to look or need help combing through your policy, we can help. Our team will verify your coverage, file claims on your behalf, and help you understand what your out-of-pocket costs may look like before treatment begins.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
Even with insurance, paying for tooth extractions can be stressful, especially for your budget. We understand that, so we offer several options to make treatment easier to manage.
First, we partner with CareCredit, which allows patients to pay for their treatment up-front and break the cost into manageable monthly payments. In addition, our practice offers online payment options and an in-house VIP Savings Plan for reduced procedure fees.
We also have occasional special offers, so be sure to check back periodically to see what’s available.
No matter your financial situation, our team is ready and willing to help you navigate your options with confidence. Tooth pain shouldn’t disrupt your life, and you should never hesitate to give us a call for support. Together, we’ll find a way to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
It’s only right that we start with one of the most-asked questions. Fortunately, the answer is, “No, tooth extractions do not hurt.” We can say this confidently because the first step of the procedure is always the same: to numb your mouth. We will also give you a list of aftercare instructions, including taking prescribed or OTC pain medication as directed, so you can continue to heal comfortably as well.
What Should I Do After My Tooth Extraction?
Speaking of aftercare instructions… It’s very important that you follow them so you remain as comfortable as possible during the recovery period. A few general guidelines we give our patients are getting plenty of rest, using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time, and brushing carefully around the extraction site. Of course, it’s equally as important to avoid doing anything that increases your risk of a dry socket, like smoking, spitting, or using a straw.
What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?
If you are missing only one tooth, then you have two options: a dental bridge or a dental implant. Both have their benefits, but dental implants have become increasingly popular over the years because they are inserted directly into the jawbone, they are self-supporting, and they can last for 30+ years with proper care and maintenance. With all of that said, the decision of which tooth-replacement solution is right for you is something you’ll decide with one of our experienced, caring, and talented dentists.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
In addition to covering the cost of preventive services, some dental insurance providers cover a portion of the cost of emergency dental treatments, including tooth extractions. So, don’t hesitate to provide us with your membership information! Although we aren’t in-network with any plans, we can still help you understand and utilize your benefits.
What Can I Eat While Recovering from a Tooth Extraction?
It’s very important that you stick to extremely soft foods, especially for the first 24 hours after the procedure. We recommend plain yogurt, applesauce, pudding, and seedless fruit smoothies (without a straw, of course). As you begin to heal, you can start to incorporate heartier foods into your diet, like vegetable soup. Just make sure that you check the temperature first since the extraction site will be sensitive.
How Should I Prepare for My Tooth Extraction?
We touched on what you should do after having a tooth extracted, but is there anything you should do leading up to your appointment? The short answer is “yes.” In addition to avoiding tobacco products and alcohol, you should stock up on anything you need, like cold compresses and OTC pain medication. You should also arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment, especially if you’re being sedated for the procedure.