“Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?”
We understand that most patients would prefer to avoid tooth extractions at all costs. While we will do everything we can to save your teeth, tooth extractions are sometimes necessary. The following are a few of the most common reasons our doctor may recommend a tooth extraction:
- Baby teeth that have trouble exfoliating on their own
- Excessive tooth pain or an irreversible tooth infection
- Orthodontic treatment
- A broken tooth
The best way to avoid tooth extraction is by letting your doctor know of any dental issues as soon as possible. Early signs of serious dental problems include the following:
- 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 discoloration, bleeding, or a bad odor
Let us know as soon as you notice any of these issues. If your tooth is able to be saved, out dentist will do everything in their power to avoid extraction and prevent further infection.
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How a Tooth Extraction Works
If you require a tooth extraction, there is no cause for alarm. A dental extraction is a virtually painless dental procedure often completed in a single trip to the dentist.
Here’s how we go about it:
Numbing the Tooth
Before the extraction begins, we apply a local anesthetic to the infected or damaged area. This anesthetic numbs the tooth tissue, alleviating pain and preventing discomfort during the extraction.
Removing the Tooth
Once the tissue is sufficiently numb, your doctor will begin by loosening the tooth with the help of a special dental tool. If the tooth is badly decayed or broken below the gumline, the doctor may make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the entire tooth. Once the tooth is loose enough, the doctor will simply remove it without any resistance or discomfort.
Cleaning and Aftercare
Once the extraction is complete, the doctor will clean and disinfect the empty socket to prevent future infection. In some cases, a few stitches may also be required. The doctor may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort. We may also schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that your mouth is healing properly and that you aren’t experiencing any complications during recovery.
Cost of a dental extraction in Chattanooga
With a typical insurance plan, a tooth removal usually costs about $100 — $200+ out of pocket. Without insurance, you can expect to pay approximately $200 to $600+ per tooth.
Keep in mind, no dental practice can give you an accurate quote over the phone. Your treatment plan must be tailored to your specific needs. We can only give you an accurate quote after you schedule a visit to our Chattanooga dental office for an oral exam.
To give you a better idea of what your extraction may cost and why, take a look at the following two broad categories of dental extractions:
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 form of dental surgery, typically performed by an oral surgeon at a dental surgery center. This is a more complex procedure than a simple tooth extraction and involves the removal of a tooth that has not fully erupted or has broken off at the gum line. Surgical tooth extraction costs more because it requires a greater amount of consideration and care.
Financing Options:
Your mouth is one of the most important investments that you can make in yourself. Many of our patients find it easier to break up the investment in their mouth into monthly payments. As such we work with Care Credit and Alphaeon to help. There are options ranging from 0% interest for 6 months, up to 60-month terms.
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
- Avoid spitting, mouth rinsing, blowing your nose, using a straw, and smoking in the first 24 hours after tooth extraction.
- Don’t touch the extraction site with your finger or tongue.
- Avoid hot foods and drinks.
- Don’t take aspirin because it inhibits blood clotting.
- Avoid physical activities and exercise.
Dane Barksdale
I experienced an excellent sedation dentistry tooth extraction! I was a little nervous but I remember sitting in the chair for the procedure in the morning and then waking up in my bed later, exactly as the team described things would go. As always the office staff was very professional and courteous with my follow-up appointment. I also appreciated how Dr. Wilkinson took the time to answer my questions about the next steps and explained everything so well. I am very pleased with Shallowford Smiles!!
Isaac
The experience of going to Shallowford Smiles has always been great for me. The staff has always been pleasant & helpful when answering questions. I'm especially grateful for their hygienists (Sarah is awesome!) & how great they are at what they do!
Stacey Ketry
I have severe dental anxiety. This visit almost made me forget I have dental anxiety at all. I have never been more impressed with a dentist or dental office assistant and staff in my entire life. I’m almost looking forward to the upcoming visit and I promise you this, I have NEVER before said that.
