Tooth Extractions – Dallas, TX

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

Tooth extractions are only recommended as a last resort, but they may be necessary for reasons such as:

• The tooth being damaged or decayed beyond repair
• Making room for an orthodontic treatment or a prosthetic appliance
• A child’s primary tooth failing to fall out on its own
• Tooth impaction that can lead to infection

Tooth extractions can prevent decay from spreading to neighboring teeth, further tooth loss, and other serious oral health problems later on.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

If tooth extraction is the best way to preserve your oral health, Dr. Lu will begin by administering an anesthetic to render the process completely painless, and he may also recommend dental sedation if you need extra help sitting calmly through the procedure. He will then use a specialized tool called an elevator to raise your tooth from its socket before he grasps it with forceps and gently works it free of its connective tissue. Since the American Dental Association recommends replacing lost teeth as soon as possible, he will discuss your options for prosthetic appliances such as dentures or a dental bridge during your consultation.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Precisely following Dr. Lu’s postoperative instructions after tooth extraction can keep your recovery period as smooth and brief as possible. You can expect these guidelines to include:

• Take any prescribed or over-the-counter medications as instructed
• Begin rinsing the mouth with a solution of 8 ounces of warm water and half a teaspoon of salt after twenty-four hours to keep the extraction site clean
• Refrain from smoking, as this can interfere with the gums’ healing process
• Avoid drinking through a straw or spitting, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot protecting the extraction site, causing a miserably painful condition called dry socket.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, as this can stress the healing tissues
• Prop up your head with pillows or cushions while laying down to reduce blood pressure and prevent discomfort in the extraction site
• Get plenty of rest

Replacing your missing teeth as soon as possible can help prevent oral health issues such as the teeth shifting out of alignment, bone loss in the jaw, and unflattering facial changes such as sunken cheeks or wrinkled lips.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

Sometimes, extraction is the only way to treat a severely decayed, damaged, or aching tooth. However, there are other circumstances that might require removal that are less emergent, like making room for braces or a restoration like dentures.

Many patients want to know what their procedure will cost ahead of time, but the exact amount depends on their unique situation. Continue reading to learn how our team at Skillman Family Dentistry of Dallas determines the rate of extractions, and feel free to contact us for more information.

Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost

Before we can schedule your procedure, you must consult with Dr. Henry. He’ll examine your mouth and the teeth in question to determine what’s needed to address the problem at hand. Several different factors can affect your total invoice, such as:

• The number of extractions. Those having multiple teeth pulled can expect to pay more overall than someone having only one taken out.
• The type of teeth being removed. Molars in the back of your mouth are harder to access and are more likely to be impacted, requiring a more complex and costly surgical procedure.
• The severity of your condition. If you have an infection or impacted tooth, a specialist may need to be brought in to assist, increasing the rate.
• The type of restoration. Dentures, dental bridges, and implants can all replace missing teeth and have different price ranges.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?

Many dental insurance policies cover 50% of major procedures like extractions once your deductible is met. However, there may be other limits you must be aware of. For instance, some providers stipulate that only a certain number of teeth can be treated, or a specific waiting period must pass before you can access benefits.

It’s worth checking the details of your plan to verify whether your extraction is included. Please let us know if you’re struggling to find the information or need help with claims or paperwork. Our friendly office staff are familiar with the process and can help you maximize your benefits.

How to Make Tooth Extractions Affordable

Having a problematic tooth removed can address toothaches or allow you to undergo other required treatments, like orthodontics, to protect and preserve your dental health. We know that many patients don’t carry dental insurance policies, so we offer the following options to help you afford your extraction:

• Flexible financing available. We’ve partnered with third-party financers, CareCredit and Sunbit, so that you can break your total invoice into more manageable monthly installments if your application is approved.

Medicaid and CHIP accepted. We also welcome payments from and can assist with claims to public health insurance programs if for qualified participants.