Tooth Extractions – Abington, CT
Careful, Comfort-Focused Tooth Removal
At Abington Family Dental Care, we hope to help our patients retain their
natural teeth for a lifetime. In some cases, however, that is not possible.
If, after careful consideration, we determine that it would be best to remove
one or more of your teeth, we will perform the extraction with your comfort
and future oral health as our top priorities. Continue reading this page to
learn more about extractions and what you can expect from the procedure.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
“Tooth extraction” is simply a term that refers to the removal of a tooth. There are two types of tooth extractions:
- A simple extraction is fairly straightforward. After numbing the patient, we grip the tooth with forceps and gently rock it back and forth to break the ligaments that keep it in place. Then, we lift it out of the mouth.
- A surgical extraction is a more advanced service. It may be necessary if a tooth is stuck beneath the gumline. A surgical extraction might involve creating incisions in the gums or breaking a tooth into pieces.
Is a Tooth Extraction Painful?
Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, you can expect to feel little to nothing during your tooth extraction. Local anesthesia will numb your tooth and the area around it. If you request it, we are also able to provide sedation to help calm any nerves you may feel. Soreness and swelling are normal after an extraction, but those usually wear off within a few days to a week.
Why Might I Need to Have a Tooth Extracted?
There are numerous possible reasons for tooth extractions, including:
- Severe dental decay or infection. When decay reaches a certain point, it is no longer possible to repair a tooth with a filling or crown.
- Significant trauma to a tooth. A broken or cracked tooth may not be salvageable via a crown or other restorative treatment.
- An extraction may be necessary to make room for orthodontic treatment and help a patient achieve a comfortable bite.
- Advanced gum disease. Gum disease can cause the gums and underlying bone to shrink, compromising a tooth’s base of support.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
Most dental insurance policies do cover tooth extractions. If you undergo a simple extraction, your plan might cover 70% - 80% of its cost. For surgical extractions, the coverage rate might be around 50%. Our team will be happy to help you figure out how your benefits apply. We will also clearly explain your payment options and assist you in navigating all the financial aspects of your care.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
The cost of tooth extractions can vary. It depends on a number of factors. During your consultation, we will evaluate the specifics of your situation so we can provide a personalized estimate. We will also be happy to talk to you about payment options, including insurance and financing. Our goal is to make the process of paying for your treatment as stress-free as possible. Thanks to the available provisions, most patients find it relatively easy to afford necessary extractions.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
Some factors that might have a bearing on the cost of tooth extractions include:
- The type and location of the tooth that needs to be removed. Some teeth are more difficult to extract than others. Therefore, they may incur higher fees.
- The number of teeth that need to be removed. It stands to reason that a patient will pay less to have one tooth removed than if they need multiple extractions.
- The overall complexity/difficulty of the case. We are able to perform most extractions right here at Abington Family Dental Care. Rarely, though, we have to refer patients to an outside specialist, whose pricing structure may be quite different from our own.
- Additional care. Sedation during your extraction, as well as tooth replacement afterward, can add significantly to the total cost of your care. Our team will make sure you are aware of your options so you can make well-informed decisions about the details of your case.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
Most dental insurance policies do cover tooth extractions. If you undergo a simple extraction, your plan might cover 70% to 80% of its cost. For surgical extractions, the coverage rate might be around 50%. Our team will be happy to help you figure out how your benefits apply. We are in-network with many insurance plans, so you can expect us to help you keep your out-of-pocket costs to a bare minimum.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
In addition to insurance, there are a few provisions that might make it easier for you to fit your extraction procedure into your budget:
- Essential Dental Plan. This discount plan is geared toward individuals without insurance. In exchange for a reasonable fee, you can enjoy reduced prices on virtually all of the services available in our practice.
- We are partnered with CareCredit, a third-party lender that offers low-interest payment plans for dental services. The application process is quick, and most patients are eligible for credit.
Are you curious to learn more about tooth extractions and their cost? Our team would be pleased to answer your questions. Get in touch today to book your consultation.