Tooth Extractions

It’s normal to feel some anxiety when faced with a tooth extraction in Thorndale, but knowing what to expect can ease any nervousness. If you’re experiencing oral pain, remember that getting a tooth pulled often eliminates the discomfort and allows you to restore your dental health.

How Is the Tooth Extraction Cost Determined?

Most people have questions about the cost when a tooth extraction is necessary. Generally, the type of tooth extraction – simple or surgical – will have a significant impact on the cost. What your insurance covers and whether you need any follow-up care will also determine the total expense. Extractions performed by an oral surgeon tend to be higher in cost than those performed by a general dentist.

During your visit, we’ll outline the estimated cost and help you understand what your insurance plan covers. Don’t delay needed dental care due to cost – call us now to explore your options.

When Do You Need an Oral Surgeon?

Sometimes, a tooth doesn’t fully erupt through the gum, often causing discomfort or even infection. When a tooth cannot be removed using forceps, your dentist will refer you to an experienced oral surgeon. The oral surgeon will examine the affected tooth and explain the procedure for having the tooth pulled.

When Must a Tooth be Extracted?

While every effort is made to save our patients’ teeth, there are situations where a tooth is so heavily decayed or broken that it must be removed. It’s important to note that any pain you’re feeling as a result of the damaged tooth will subside once the tooth is pulled. Common situations requiring tooth extraction are explained in more detail below.

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

If you’re experiencing oral pain due to a cavity or damaged tooth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. In some cases, root canal therapy may be enough to save the tooth; however, if it is damaged past its center you will likely need to have the tooth pulled.

Do Dentists Pull Baby Teeth?

Dentists occasionally have to remove baby teeth when they are blocking an adult tooth from erupting into place. They can also develop cavities that are too large to repair using fillings. Contact our dentist if your child is experiencing oral discomfort. We’re skilled in working with young patients of all ages, helping them relax.

Does Gum Disease Lead to Lost Teeth?

Advanced periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. As the disease progresses, the ligaments holding the teeth begin to break down and loosen, often making an extraction necessary.

When Must Wisdom Teeth be Removed?

The wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that often appear during your late teens or early adult years. Unfortunately, most people do not have enough space in the jaw to support these extra molars, which can sometimes become infected. The wisdom teeth can also grow in sideways or at an angle, causing them to become impacted under the gums. While dentists can often remove wisdom teeth that have erupted past the gums, impacted wisdom teeth generally need to be removed by an oral surgeon.

Will You Have to Get Teeth Pulled Before Braces?

A condition called hyperdontia occurs when a person has developed too many adult teeth in their mouth, causing alignment issues. Most dentists will remove these extra teeth before orthodontic care to ensure the teeth have plenty of room to adjust.

What Are the Proper Aftercare Steps for Teeth Extractions?

Following a dental extraction, it’s essential to care for the affected area so that a blood clot can form. The dentist will provide aftercare instructions and a list of foods and activities to avoid. You’ll also receive pain relief medication and tips on how to reduce discomfort and swelling.

Do Extractions Heal Quickly?

In most cases, patients can resume moderate activities within the first 24 hours following tooth removal. However, strenuous activities such as sports should be avoided for at least a week. Generally, surgical extractions will have a longer healing time than simple extractions performed at the dentist’s office. Contact us if you have questions about the tooth extraction healing process.

Don’t let a severely damaged tooth impact your dental health. If you suspect a tooth should be removed, contact us now to learn more about our affordable tooth extraction in Thorndale.