Tooth Extractions

Hearing that a tooth extraction in Blue Bell is necessary to preserve your dental health can be scary for those with dental phobias. It’s important to remember that extractions are virtually painless – in fact, getting a damaged tooth removed should relieve discomfort. Here are answers to many common extraction questions, including details on the procedure and cost.

How Much Will a Tooth Extraction Cost?

Dentists determine the cost of a tooth extraction using many factors: the type of extraction, how hard it will be to have the tooth pulled, and what your insurance covers. Extractions performed by an oral surgeon will typically be more costly than a simple extraction performed by your general dentist.

During your appointment, your dentist will examine the affected tooth and provide an outline of the anticipated cost. You’ll also receive information about our payment options and what your insurance plan covers.

When Do I Need to See an Oral Surgeon?

Teeth that haven’t erupted through the gums or those that have only partially erupted may need to be surgically removed. Your general dentist will recommend having your tooth pulled by a surgeon if they cannot remove the tooth using forceps.

Are there Situations in Which Extraction Is the Only Option?

When a tooth is significantly damaged due to gum disease, an injury, or a large cavity, extraction may be the only viable option. You may be experiencing oral pain as a result of the damage, and getting a tooth pulled should eliminate the discomfort. While we will make every attempt to save the tooth, it may not be possible when the tooth is severely cracked or decayed. A few common dental health issues requiring extractions are discussed below.

Does a Severely Decayed, Cracked, or Broken Tooth Need to be Pulled?

A tooth that is cracked, broken, or decayed should be examined by a general dentist. If the dentist finds that the tooth is damaged just to its middle, root canal therapy may be possible. However, an extraction will be recommended if a root canal won’t save the tooth. Once the extraction is finished, any oral pain you’re experiencing should cease. The dentist will also discuss your restorative options, such as dental implants.

Why Do Dentists Sometimes Pull Baby Teeth?

If a baby tooth is blocking an adult tooth from erupting, your dentist may recommend a baby tooth removal procedure. Baby teeth can also develop large cavities that can’t be filled, as well as infections, making extraction necessary. Contact us if your child is experiencing oral pain. Our dentist is skilled at helping young patients feel calm.

Can Advanced Gum Disease Lead to Tooth Extraction?

Advanced periodontal disease can cause teeth to loosen as the infection attacks the ligaments holding them in position. This can sometimes cause pain, which often resolves itself after the affected tooth is removed.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out?

Your wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that usually erupt during your teens or early adult years. Many people don’t have jaws large enough to accommodate these extra molars. As the wisdom teeth attempt to emerge, they can become impacted, infected, or cause damage to the jawbone. They also can grow in at an angle, causing pain. Our dentist usually recommends removing the wisdom teeth as soon as possible. We also may recommend consulting with an oral surgeon if your wisdom teeth are impacted under the gums.

Do Extra Adult Teeth Need to be Pulled?

When extra adult teeth grow in your mouth, crowding issues can occur. Dentists will often pull these extra teeth before braces to allow room for the teeth to straighten.

What Is the Proper Aftercare Routine for Dental Extractions?

Taking good care of your mouth during the tooth extraction healing process is essential to recovery. Our dentist will give you instructions on how to care for the affected area during the first 24 hours as well as how to reduce swelling or discomfort.

Do Extractions Heal Quickly?

In most cases, extraction patients can begin moderate activities after the first 24 hours of healing time. Strenuous activities should be avoided until the dentist says it is safe. Generally, extracted molars take longer to heal than smaller teeth, and oral surgeries require longer healing time than simple extractions.

If your tooth is severely damaged, there’s no need to tolerate the discomfort. Contact us to find out whether a tooth extraction in Blue Bell can get your dental health back on track.