How Much Does It Cost to Have a Tooth Removed by an Oral Surgeon?
Whether you need a routine or emergency tooth extraction, cost can be a barrier. The average tooth removal cost can vary by hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on which part of the country you live in, whether or not the tooth removal is being completed under anesthesia or sedation, and the type of dental extraction it is. You might find a simple, emergency tooth removal cost of $99 in one place or a sedation wisdom tooth extraction cost of $1,000 in another.
Knowing what to expect before you call the dentist’s office can help you avoid sticker shock while still affording the care you need.
Do I Need A Tooth Pulled?
Tooth extraction is a common procedure, but it is important to consider other options before undergoing it. Wisdom teeth are the only exception, as they are hard to reach and prone to problems. It is best to exhaust other options for non-wisdom teeth before extracting them, such as performing a root canal or placing a crown over your tooth.
A dentist or oral surgeon may suggest a tooth extraction due to various circumstances, including the potential side effects and available treatment options. The cost of tooth extraction can vary depending on several factors, including the type of tooth, insurance coverage, and the number of teeth being removed simultaneously. For example, if a simple tooth extraction involves only $20-40 of nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you might be out of pocket less than $100. If the tooth is unerupted and only impacted in gum tissue, the extraction could range from $800 to up to $4,000.
Tooth extraction costs can also vary without insurance, with some patients paying around $100-$200 for a simple, basic tooth removal, and up to $700 per wisdom tooth for surgical extractions. The actual cost of the tooth removal is just part of the fees, and it does not include dental sedation or tooth replacement treatment afterward.
Most tooth extractions are partially covered by dental insurance, but you will still need to meet your deductible and/or copay. The average dental insurance policy covers about 70% to 80% of the tooth extraction costs, with you being financially responsible for the remaining amount. Some insurance plans cover closer to 50% of the procedure, depending on the type of policy you’re enrolled in.
To know how much your extraction will cost with dental insurance, schedule a consultation with at least one or two dentists, who will work up a financial plan that outlines your estimated coverage and itemized fees related to your care.
Risks of tooth removal include nerve damage, infection, or facial paralysis. It is crucial to work with an experienced dental team who thoroughly screens you and talks you through the benefits and risks of tooth removal before an extraction. Dry sockets are one of the most common risks that most people hear about.
The Cheapest Way To Get Tooth Extractions
To save on dental costs after a tooth extraction, consider four cost-saving options:
- Visit dental schools in your area or within driving distance. These schools offer experienced, licensed dentists who closely monitor their work. You can save hundreds or thousands of dollars on dental procedures at a college, but you’ll likely spend more time there than at a typical dental office.
- Consider dental plans, which allow you to save on the average cost of dental procedures. Dental savings plans have nationwide savings with over 100,000 dentists in the program.
- Consider flexible payment plans and dental office memberships. Many dental patients don’t have dental insurance, but they can still benefit from them. Most dentists offer flexible payment plans, either at 0% interest for 6-12 months or low-interest financing. If you don’t have insurance, ask your dentist or oral surgeon if they offer an in-house membership savings plan.
- Ask for a cash discount. If you don’t have dental insurance, ask the dentist if you can pay cash. They may be able to offer a lower rate cash discount depending on the practice’s location and state insurance laws. Senior citizens can also ask for discounts.
After a tooth extraction, it’s important to rest for a few days to avoid complications like a painful dry socket. Clean your mouth properly and stick to soft foods for several days. Avoid irritation, smoking, alcohol, or other risk factors that could jeopardize recovery.
Removing a tooth helps establish a healthier, pain-free environment inside your mouth, eliminating an active cavity or infection that could potentially harm adjacent teeth. However, after your mouth heals, plan to replace your missing tooth as soon as possible to prevent alignment issues and overall smile damage.
How Much Does It Cost To Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
| Type of Extraction | Cost Range | Factors Influencing Cost | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Tooth Extraction | $50 – $500 |
| Up to 50-70% coverage (subject to waiting periods) |
| Complex Tooth Extraction | $200 – $1,100+ |
| Up to 50% coverage (subject to waiting periods) |
| Wisdom Tooth Extraction | $225 – $3,500+ |
| Up to 50-70% coverage (subject to waiting periods) |
| Emergency Tooth Extraction | Varies widely |
| May be eligible for payment plans or cash discounts |
Conclusion
When you speak with your dentist about your extraction, your tooth extraction cost and the necessary procedure will be explained. This will depend on the specifics of your tooth. If you need an oral surgery extraction, you will need to pay more than for a simple extraction. Your tooth extraction cost also depends on your dentist. You will need to pay more to have the procedure performed by an experienced and skilled dentist. If your cost is too cheap, it is often a sign the dentist does not have any experience with extractions.
You also need to consider several other factors regarding cost, such as the reason you need an extraction and the state of your tooth. A good example is if your tooth is either impacted or broken, your tooth extraction cost will be higher. Generally, there is a slight difference in the cost of having your wisdom teeth removed. Make certain you know your medical history before you schedule your consultation. Your dentist needs to know if you have health concerns or issues and which medications you are taking to make certain you remain safe.
If you believe you need extra sedation, ask your dentist about the additional cost. As long as you follow the instructions you receive both before and after your extraction, you should form a blood clot and heal fairly quickly. If you are experiencing any oral issues or have questions about your dental condition or oral health, contact our office today, and we will be happy to schedule your appointment. Receiving dental checkups on a regular basis is a good way to find any issues you have while they are still small.
