How Much Does Tooth Extraction Cost?

How much will it cost to extract my infected tooth?

Here are some general guidelines to go by:

• A tooth that is totally erupted from the gum that does not require surgery will typically cost between $75-300. It depends on the anesthesia type, the cost of living in the area and the level of damage to the tooth. If the pain warrants an emergency visit, the cost can rise to $300-$450. Weekends, evenings, immediate or next-day appointments fall into this category.
• 70%-80% of the standard costs will ordinarily be covered by dental insurance if the extraction is a medical necessity and not deemed cosmetic. The deductible, depending on the difficulty of the procedure, can run anywhere from $26-$145 for a non-complicated extraction and an overall cost of $90-$465.
• When surgery is indicated, extractions can run anywhere between $150-$650 or more depending on the type of anesthesia that is used, whether it is an emergency procedure, the complexity of the surgery and general cost of living in the area.
• Extraction of a third molar, otherwise known as a wisdom tooth, can run anywhere from $75-$200 while an impacted molar will be higher, averaging $225-$600. You can also get four impacted wisdom teeth pulled all together for $1000-$3000 or more.

What can I expect during and after a tooth extraction?

• Typically the extraction is performed by a licensed dentist or an oral or maxillofacial surgeon. The office follow-up visit is usually included in the pricing structure and allows the team to remove the sutures, check for healing and address any concerns you might have.
• Teeth are ordinarily encased in their bony socket with a ligament attached and usually require a gentle widening of the socket for extraction. A tooth that is difficult to remove may have to come out in pieces.
• 24-48 hours after the tooth extraction the discomfort and swelling will start to subside. It should be totally gone within four to seven days. Expect complete gum healing to take three to four weeks, but it will take longer for the bone to heal, usually six to eight months.

Will, there be any added costs I should know about?

How can I get a discount?

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has some suggestions for locating dental care at a discounted price.
• You can usually get discounts by getting your extraction done through a dental school clinic. Teachers will supervise students as they go through the procedure.

Related article: Can veterans get free dental care in Canada?

What questions do I need to ask when I’m trying to find a dentist to extract my tooth?

If you do not have a regular dentist, the next step is to shop around for a practice that offers the best price. Although cost is important, be sure and check references or reviews as a quality of care is most important. As in most things, you get what you pay for. Be selective.

Here are a few ideas that may help:

• A reputable dentist will ordinarily need to examine the tooth before they can diagnose the next step. Many factors come into play, such as the need for a local anesthetic or whether sedation is required.
• Ask if the initial visit will be part of the quoted price.
• Contact more than one dental office to get more than one price quote.
• If you have insurance, contact your representative to get a list of approved providers in your area.
• When you contact the dental office, be sure and let them know that you carry dental insurance.
• Ask friends and family who they would recommend and why.
• What hours is the office open and does that fit within your schedule?
• Is their office located in a convenient location near your work or home?
• Where did the dentist go to school?
• What type of anesthesia do they use?
• Do they have an emergency back-up after hours and on the weekend and who is it?