Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
There are several reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary, including:
-severe decay or damage that cannot be repaired. A dentist can help determine if this is the case, you may be surprised at what a dentist can do to repair a tooth.
-advanced gum disease
-overcrowding
-infection, risk of infection due to a compromised immune system,
-preparation for orthodontic treatment.
While tooth extraction is one potential solution for tooth pain, it’s not always necessary, and in many cases, we may be able to provide prompt relief while also saving the tooth through early detection of the underlying issue. Therefore, it’s essential to seek timely dental care when experiencing tooth pain to explore all available treatment options.
- Severe tooth pain.
- Pain that worsens with pressure or chewing.
- Jaw pain or stiffness.
- Swollen gums around the tooth or teeth.
- Signs of gum disease such as discolouration, bleeding or a bad odour.
The Extraction Process
At our dental clinic, our experienced team of dentists can perform a tooth extraction procedure in just one office visit, guiding you through the entire process from initial evaluation to aftercare. We will first determine if tooth removal is the most appropriate course of action for your individual needs before proceeding with the extraction, and will provide personalized care every step of the way.
Examination
Starting with a thorough examination of your symptoms and engage in a detailed discussion of your treatment options before recommending any tooth extraction. Our goal is to work together with you to determine the best course of action that supports the overall health and longevity of your teeth.
Removal
We understand that tooth extraction can be an anxiety-inducing procedure, which is why we offer local anesthesia and, if necessary, sedation to ensure patient comfort during the process. Our skilled oral surgeons use a minimally invasive approach to gently remove the tooth, prioritizing your comfort and a speedy recovery as our topmost concern.
Aftercare
To promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications, including:
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days after the procedure, gradually transitioning back to your normal diet as the extraction site heals.
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day, starting 24 hours after the procedure, to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Take any prescribed pain medication as directed and use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help manage discomfort.
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth as normal, being careful to avoid the extraction site.
Following these post-tooth extraction instructions can help ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery, and your dentist may provide additional recommendations depending on your individual circumstances.
Cost Of A Dental Extraction In Midlothian
The cost of tooth extraction can vary depending on multiple factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the location of the tooth, and whether or not you have dental insurance coverage. For those with insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $100 to $200 or more, and we are happy to provide a quote in advance to help you understand your specific costs. For those without insurance, the expected cost of a single tooth extraction may be approximately $200 to $600 or more, depending on the specifics of the procedure.
No dental practice can give you an accurate quote over the phone because your treatment plan must be tailored to your specific needs and can only be determined after an oral exam. There are two broad categories that dental extractions fall under which may give you a better idea of what your extraction may cost and why:
Simple Tooth Extraction
A simple extraction is performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth. These can be performed by a general dentist, using local anesthesia. A simple extraction of an accessible tooth without complication would merit a lower cost estimate.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
A surgical extraction is a type of dental surgery that is usually carried out by an oral surgeon in a specialized surgical center. This procedure is more intricate than a simple tooth extraction as it involves removing a tooth that is difficult to access or has broken off at the gum line. Due to the complexity and the delicate care required, a surgical tooth extraction typically involves a higher cost compared to a simple extraction, reflecting the expertise and attention required to carry out the procedure safely and effectively.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although many people view the removal of wisdom teeth as a customary tradition, the truth is that extraction is only necessary when the wisdom teeth are impacted or are causing issues with the surrounding teeth and jaw.
As with any dental procedure, there is always a small risk of complications, such as infection, excessive bleeding, or nerve damage. However, these risks can be minimized with proper technique and post-operative care.
You should avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour after the procedure, and then stick to soft foods for the first few days. You should also avoid drinking through a straw and smoking, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
The length of the extraction process will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. Simple extractions can typically be completed in just a few minutes, while more complex extractions may take longer.
Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth being extracted, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. You may feel pressure, but not pain.
A tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage, gum disease, overcrowding, infection, a compromised immune system, or as part of orthodontic treatment.