Tooth Extractions – Encinitas, CA
Removing Teeth That Could Compromise Your Oral Health
Tooth extractions are never our first line of defense against oral health problems; we want you to be able to enjoy your natural pearly whites for your entire life whenever possible. However, in some cases, we must remove a tooth to prevent additional oral health problems from developing. In that case, one of our talented Encinitas dentists will carefully extract it, ensuring you don’t feel any pain or discomfort in the process. To learn more, you can schedule an appointment with our team or read on!
Why Choose McElroy Smiles by Design of Encinitas for Tooth Extractions?
- Start-to-Finish Dental Implant Treatment
- Same-Day Emergency Appointments
- In-Network with Most PPO Insurances
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
We typically recommend tooth extractions in the following cases:
- A tooth is decayed or damaged beyond the point of being repaired.
- Gum disease has deteriorated the foundation of your teeth, causing them to become loose.
- Crowding is preventing you from achieving your ideal orthodontic results.
- An accident has caused a tooth to crack.
- A tooth is impacted below the gumline.
Fortunately, if we recommend a tooth extraction in Encinitas, we can replace the missing tooth with a dental implant or bridge to rebuild your smile to be complete and even healthier.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
Whether you need an impacted wisdom tooth extracted or a severely decayed tooth removed, the first step is always the same: numbing your mouth. Once you can’t feel anything and you’re ready to begin, we will proceed with your simple or surgical extraction.
Simple extractions are conducted when a tooth has fully erupted through the gumline. In this case, we’ll simply use special tools to gently rock the tooth loose. Surgical extractions are a bit more involved because it requires a tooth below the gumline to be removed. After creating a small incision in your gums, we will divide the tooth into small sections and safely remove it from there.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Following your appointment, we recommend:
- Avoiding all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
- Taking OTC pain medication as instructed.
- Keeping your mouth clean to prevent infection.
- Not lifting anything heavy or exercising.
- Keeping your head elevated while you sleep.
- Eating soft foods, like soup, scrambled eggs, yogurt, and oatmeal.
- Not using a straw or spitting.
If you’re ready to schedule your tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our emergency dentist. Of course, you’re also welcome to get in touch if you have any questions about this treatment – from the actual process of removing your tooth to the associated price.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
At McElroy Smiles by Design of Encinitas, we understand that extractions are no one’s first choice for dental care. The stress of having a tooth removed is enough to deal with without also needing to think about how your treatment will affect your budget. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the financial aspects of tooth extraction. Read on to see how our team can help you gain some peace of mind when it comes to paying for your procedure.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
Without seeing you for a consultation, it can be difficult to determine an exact price for your extraction. On average, patients pay between $130 and $250 without insurance. However, there are several factors that can cause that price to fluctuate, such as:
- The Location and Condition of the Tooth: A tooth that’s structurally sound near the front of the mouth is much easier to remove than a decaying tooth near the back.
- Whether the Tooth Is Impacted: A simple extraction and an impacted tooth are very different in terms of complexity. Impacted teeth are under the gumline and may require oral surgery to extract properly.
- How Many Extractions You Need: More extractions require careful planning and a longer procedure.
- Your Tooth Replacement Method: Tooth replacement options vary greatly in cost from dentures to dental implants.
- Insurance Coverage: If you have dental insurance, it can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
In most cases, dental insurance will cover a partial amount of tooth extractions after your deductible has been met. However, every plan is different, and providers may have limits on the number of extractions per year or impose waiting periods between the procedure and your coverage. This is why it’s important to understand the terms of your insurance plan before your procedure. If you need help with this step, our team is highly knowledgeable about insurance and can guide you through the process.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, any procedure can put a strain on your budget. That’s why we offer several ways to make your treatment more affordable, even if you don’t currently have coverage.
- Dental Membership Program: With one annual price, our in-house membership program offers benefits similar to dental insurance like reduced fees for our services. There are no annual maximums, waiting periods, or limitations on pre-existing conditions.
- CareCredit, Proceed, and Sunbit: These financing services allow you to pay for all your dental work at once and split the cost into smaller installments.
- Special Offers: We often run special offers that can make a significant dent in the cost of your treatment. For example, we currently offer a $59 emergency exam complete with an X-ray. Be sure to keep checking this page for other offers!
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Tooth extractions may sound intimidating, but thanks to modern dental techniques and anesthetics, the procedure itself is relatively painless. At McElroy Smiles by Design of Encinitas, our team makes comfort a priority. So, your dentist will first numb the area around your tooth to ensure you feel little to no discomfort during the extraction. You may experience some pressure as the tooth is removed and possibly light discomfort, but not pain. After the procedure, mild soreness is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. For more complex extractions, sedation options are available to keep you relaxed throughout the process.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
In many cases, tooth extraction is a last resort, and alternative treatments need to be employed before the extraction becomes necessary. Our team will always explore other options first, such as root canal treatment to save an infected tooth or dental crowns to restore a damaged one. These alternatives are used to preserve your natural tooth whenever possible. However, if the tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or poses a risk to surrounding teeth, extraction might be the most effective solution.
What’s the Difference Between Tooth Extractions and Wisdom Tooth Surgery?
A standard tooth extraction involves a simple procedure to remove a tooth that’s fully erupted and visible in your mouth. Wisdom tooth surgery, on the other hand, is more complex. Wisdom teeth are often impacted (trapped under the gums or bone) or growing in awkward positions. These require surgical techniques to access and remove, making them much more involved. However, there’s no need to be anxious about either scenario. Our team has the necessary experience, technology, and skills to safely and effectively extract problem teeth and help you find relief.
What’s the Recovery for Tooth Extractions Like?
Recovery from a tooth extraction varies, but most patients feel back to normal within a few days. During the first 24 hours, it’s important to rest, avoid strenuous activity, and follow our team’s aftercare instructions. There may be some swelling and mild discomfort, but this is normal and can often be lessened with cold compresses and pain relievers.
Stick to soft foods, avoid smoking, and don’t use a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot that forms in the socket. For more complex extractions, like wisdom tooth removal, full recovery may take up to a week or more. Simply use caution and take care of your mouth. Soon you’ll be back to smiling without pain or apprehension!
