Tooth Extractions – Tucson, AZ

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

We always do everything in our power to help patients keep their natural teeth, but sometimes it simply isn’t a viable option. Here are some reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary to restore your dental health and function:

• There is severe damage or decay to the tooth that is irreparable.
• To ensure the long-term success of a restoration, like a denture.
• To allow for a patient to undergo orthodontic treatment.
• If a tooth is impacted and unable to erupt properly.
• When a primary tooth won’t fall out on its own.

By extracting a problematic tooth, future infections and other oral health issues are less likely to occur.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

Teeth are either removed by pulling or surgical extraction. Teeth can only be “pulled” when they have fully emerged from the gumline. In this case, we will start by numbing the area around your tooth with a local anesthetic and using a clasping tool to shift around the tooth 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 to the gum tissue to allow us the ability to reach enough of your tooth to fully remove it.

To determine which extraction method is necessary for you, come see us for a consultation where we can evaluate your smile. When we discuss your extraction, we can also talk about tooth replacement options to prevent future oral health issues as a result of missing teeth.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Before you leave our office, we will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to help you stay comfortable and avoid complications. Every case is different, but here are some steps that we typically recommend for a quick recovery:

• Rinse with saltwater 24 hours after your procedure.
• Avoid using tobacco products until your mouth has healed.
• Keep your head elevated while you sleep.
• Get plenty of rest to promote healing.
• Take recommended over-the-counter and prescribed medication as directed.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Stay away from hard, crunchy, and sticky foods.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

When you’re told that you need a tooth removed, one of your biggest concerns might be how you’re going to pay for the treatment. We can only give you an estimate once we’ve examined your mouth; that said, our team will be more than happy to walk you through the factors that can influence the amount you end up paying. And of course, we can help you take whatever steps you need to in order to fit the cost of your procedure into your budget more easily.

Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost

The tooth extraction process is different for every patient, which means the amount you pay will be personalized. Here are some of the most important factors that will need to be considered when it comes to the cost of your procedure:

• The Number of Teeth That Need to Be Removed: Extracting a single tooth costs less than removing multiple teeth.
• The Type and Location of the Tooth: In general, teeth near the back of your mouth tend to be more costly to extract.
• The Type of Extraction You Need: When the tooth in question is fully erupted and completely visible in your mouth, it can be removed with a simple extraction. However, an impacted tooth or one that has broken off below the gum line will likely require surgery, and that can increase the amount you pay for the procedure.
• The Tooth Replacement Solution That You Choose: Dentures, bridges, and dental implants are all potential options for replacing extracted teeth. Each type of restoration has its own price tag that will need to be accounted for.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?

Every dental insurance plan is different, so you should always consult with your provider to make sure you have all the details. That said, you can usually expect a tooth extraction to receive around 50% coverage since it’s considered to be a major dental procedure. Of course, this is before taking your annual maximum, waiting periods, and other factors into account.

Our knowledgeable team can review your insurance plan with you and explain what your coverage will look like. We’ll also be more than happy to file the necessary claims and show you the best way to maximize your benefits.

How to Make Tooth Extractions Affordable

Even if you don’t currently have dental insurance, you can sign up for our in-house membership plan. You can enjoy a discount on a wide variety of procedures, and you won’t have to deal with the various pitfalls that come with regular dental insurance.

Additionally, we also offer flexible financing through several third-party providers including CareCredit. You can choose a plan that fits your budget with little to no interest to worry about. Feel free to reach out to us to learn more about how financing works at our office and how you can apply.