A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, whether it’s for relieving pain, treating severe tooth decay, or making space for orthodontic therapy. While hearing "extraction" may sound intimidating, understanding the process—and what to expect—can help put your mind at ease. This guide covers the basics of tooth extractions, from types of procedures and associated costs to recovery tips, especially if you're considering affordable options through your dental plan.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. Dentists perform extractions when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired, when it causes severe crowding, or in cases of infection.
What kind of Dentist Does Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extractions are performed by both general dentists and specialists. Your general dentist will determine if your extraction can be done in-office or if you’ll need a referral to a specialist, like an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Not all tooth extractions are the same. Here are the most common types:
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Simple tooth extraction
- Most often involves the extraction of an erupted (visible) tooth and without additional removal of supporting bone.
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Surgical tooth extraction
- Most often necessary for teeth that are broken at the gum line or impacted (e.g., wisdom teeth).
- Requires a tooth be sectioned into smaller pieces or removing bone around the tooth.
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Full-mouth extractions
- Typically done for individuals with severe gum disease or extensive decay.
- Often followed by fitting dentures or placement of dental implants.
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Orthodontic Extractions
- Sometimes required as part of orthodontic treatment to help correct crowding.
How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost?
The cost of a tooth extraction can vary based on several factors, including the type of extraction and whether you have dental coverage.
Tooth Extraction Cost Without Insurance
The costs of most dental procedures are highly dependent on your location, your provider, and several other factors like whether you’re using dental benefits or an in-network provider. These cost estimates come from data provided by the Delta Dental of Washington cost estimator tool in addition to FairHealthConsumer.org.
- Simple extraction: $100–$400 per tooth depending on benefits coverage and location.
- Surgical extraction (such as wisdom teeth): $132–$700 per tooth depending on benefits coverage and location.
- Full-mouth extractions: $2,000–$4,000 or more depending on benefits coverage and location.
Tooth Extraction Cost with Coverage
If you have dental benefits, some portion of the cost may be covered.
All of Delta Dental of Washington’s Individual and Family plans cover some portion of non-surgical tooth extractions. Depending on your plan, this procedure may require a waiting period between when you enroll in the plan and when you're eligible for coverage.
The Delta Dental of Washington Individual and Family plans that cover some portions of surgical extractions are:
- Delta Dental – Optimum Plan: covers 60% of the cost after a 12-month waiting period and deductible
- Delta Dental – Premium Plan: covers 50% of the cost after a 12-month waiting period and deductible
- Delta Dental – Plus Ortho Plan: covers 50% of the cost after a 12-month waiting period and deductible
- Delta Dental – Clear Plan: requires a $230 copay after a 12-month waiting period
The coverage for tooth extractions for Delta Dental of Washington Group Members (members who are covered through an employer) depend on your group’s specific benefits package. You can find what exactly your coverage is by signing into your account here.
For retirees or individuals on a fixed income, finding affordable options is especially important. Check for in-network dentists or consider supplemental dental plans to lower costs.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction Procedure
Before the procedure
Your dentist will review your medical history and take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding bone. You’ll receive local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring a more comfortable experience. Sedation may also be an option for extraction procedures.
During the procedure
- Simple extraction: A dentist uses forceps to gently remove the tooth.
- Surgical extraction: A dentist may make an incision in the gum and remove bone before extracting the tooth.
The process typically takes:
- Simple extractions: 20–40 minutes, including local anesthesia.
- Surgical extractions: Up to an hour or longer, depending on complexity.
Tooth Extraction Recovery and Aftercare Tips
Recovery from a tooth extraction typically takes 7–10 days, but following aftercare instructions is key to healing quickly and avoiding complications.
Tips for a smooth recovery:
- Control bleeding: Bite down on gauze for at least 30 minutes to stop bleeding.
- Reduce swelling: Apply an ice pack to the affected area of the face for 10–20 minutes at a time.
- Avoid straws and smoking: These can dislodge the blood clot and healing process, and cause a painful condition called dry socket.
- Stick to soft foods: Yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup are good choices for the first few days.
- Keep the area clean: Gently rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours to reduce the risk of infection.
If you experience prolonged pain, swelling, or bleeding, contact your dentist immediately.
Affordable Tooth Extractions for Retirees
For retirees on a fixed income, accessing affordable dental care can be challenging. Here are some options to help reduce costs:
- Check your Medicare Advantage plan: Some plans offer limited dental coverage for extractions.
- Look for dental discount plans: These can help lower out-of-pocket costs for retirees.
- Inquire about dental schools: Many offer low-cost services provided by supervised students.
If you’re a Delta Dental of Washington member, you can also find in-network providers for reduced costs.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a simple extraction or a more complex procedure, knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions. Understanding costs, different types of extractions, and how to care for yourself afterward will set you up for a healthy recovery.
For more information about your coverage or to find a provider, sign in to your account.
