Tooth Extractions – Norton, MA

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

There are a number of situations in which we might recommend one or more tooth extractions:

• A tooth is so severely damaged or decayed that restoring it would be impractical or impossible.
• Advanced gum disease has caused one or more teeth to become very loose.
• It is necessary to make more room in the mouth for dentures or orthodontia.
• An infection is present, and tooth removal is the best way to prevent the problem from spreading.
• The wisdom teeth are threatening the health of surrounding tissues.
• One of a child’s baby teeth did not fall out on time and is adversely affecting the development of incoming adult teeth.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

In many cases, the tooth removal process is pretty straightforward. First, we numb your mouth so you will feel little to nothing during the procedure. Then, we use an instrument known as an elevator to lift the tooth from its socket. Gripping the tooth with forceps, we wiggle it in order to break the connective tissues holding it in place. We finish by cleaning out the socket and placing some gauze to control bleeding.

As part of the tooth extraction process, we often discuss tooth replacement options, which can help to prevent oral health complications in the future.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

It can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to recover from a tooth extraction. To facilitate a smooth healing process, you should:

• Take prescribed/recommended medications as directed by our team.
• Keep your head elevated when you rest.
• Use a cold compress to minimize swelling.
• After the first 24 hours, start rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. (Do not vigorously swish or spit. It is important to be gentle!)
• Get plenty of rest.
• Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew tobacco.
• Attend all recommended follow-up appointments, including those that focus on tooth replacement.
• Give us a call if you run into any questions or concerns while you are recovering.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

Now that you understand why you might need a tooth extraction and how the process usually works, it’s natural to have questions about the cost. The price of your procedure depends on your unique circumstances, so before we can provide a quote, you must schedule a consultation with one of our experts. After examining your current dental condition, we’ll walk you through a detailed estimate for your approval before moving forward.

Continue reading to learn the different factors considered when calculating the final amount due, and feel free to contact us if you have additional questions.  

Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost

It’s difficult to anticipate how much you’ll owe for your procedure until we examine the tooth in question because your unique situation impacts the pricing. Certain elements must be taken into account, including:

• The tooth’s location. Molars are harder to access and have more roots, so they may require additional time and resources to take out, which can increase the total.
• How many teeth require removal. Having multiple teeth taken out can drive up the final amount.
• The type of extraction. A simple extraction with forceps has fewer associated fees than a complex surgical extraction.
• The type of restoration. You can typically expect more to pay for a dental implant to replace your extracted tooth than a dental bridge or dentures, though they also tend to last longer.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?  

Many dental insurance policies contribute to about 50% of the cost of major procedures like extractions once your annual deductible is met. That said, your plan might have different coverage and qualifications, so verifying your details is a good idea. For example, you might have a waiting period that must pass before benefits kick in, or only a limited number of teeth can be treated.

If you’re struggling to find the information about your policy, our friendly office staff are more than happy to assist you! They’re familiar with many different plans and can help you maximize your benefits.

How to Make Tooth Extractions Affordable

Sometimes, having a tooth extracted is the best way to preserve oral health, and we don’t want your budget to prevent you from undergoing a procedure that’s essential for your well-being. However, our team also understands that not everyone carries a dental insurance policy.

If you’re concerned about the cost of having your teeth removed, you can apply for a flexible financing plan with CareCredit. If your application is approved, this plan allows you to break up your total invoice into more manageable monthly installments.

You can also inquire whether any current promotions or specials, like our current $79 comprehensive exam and X-ray offer, can be applied to your account.