Gently Removing Unsalvageable Teeth
Our team at Northampton Dental Specialists Group wants you to be able to preserve your natural smile, which is why we strive to salvage damaged or decayed teeth whenever we can. Unfortunately, some dental emergencies may result in a tooth that simply cannot be saved, leaving a tooth extraction as your only option. Rest assured, though, that we’ll do everything we can to make the extraction process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Don’t hesitate to call us if you think you need to have a tooth removed.
Why Choose Northampton Dental Specialists Group for Tooth Extractions?
- Lifelike Tooth Replacement Options
- Knowledgeable, Caring Dentists
- Sedation for Anxious Patients
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
It’s important to remember that tooth extractions are considered a last resort. We will only recommend the procedure if we have already ruled out any alternatives that would allow you to keep the tooth. With that in mind, a tooth extraction may be required if:
- The tooth in question is badly decayed or damaged to the point where it can no longer be repaired.
- There is an infection in your tooth that may start to spread to other parts of your mouth.
- You are suffering from advanced gum disease that has caused some of your teeth to come loose.
- You have wisdom teeth that are partially or completely trapped under your gums.
- Your teeth are overly crowded to the point where they are preventing you from having orthodontic work performed.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
A routine tooth extraction involves loosening the tooth in question until it reaches the point where it can be taken out with forceps. Since your mouth will be numbed with a local anesthetic for this procedure, you shouldn’t experience any discomfort (although there may be some pressure).
In cases where the tooth is not easily accessible, a surgical extraction may be performed. For this procedure, an incision is made in the gums so that the tooth can be removed. Depending on the situation, the tooth may be divided into smaller sections that can be taken out one at a time.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Once the procedure is complete, a blood clot will form at the extraction site. You will need to keep this blood clot safe if you want to prevent a painful dry socket. To do so, avoid drinking through a straw, spitting, or directly touching the site while your mouth is healing.
To manage your discomfort after your tooth extraction, be sure to follow any instructions our team gives you for taking over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication. You should also make a point of avoiding strenuous exercise, as it could lead to excessive bleeding and a delayed healing process.
Your diet after a tooth extraction should consist only of soft or liquid foods. Scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and yogurt can all be good choices. Remember not to eat anything that’s particularly hot or spicy.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Preparing to have a tooth removed can leave you feeling uncertain about the process. Not just because it requires minor surgery but also because of the price. The cost of tooth extractions in Northampton varies by patient, so what you pay is unlikely to match someone else’s bill. Our team will need to conduct a thorough examination before establishing the cost of your treatment, which we will happily discuss with you during your consultation.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
Your overall cost will be determined using various factors, including:
- How many teeth need to be removed
- The type of tooth being extracted and its location
- Whether you need additional dental sedation
- Whether you plan to use your dental insurance to help cover a portion of the cost
- Whether the tooth should be removed non-surgically or surgically
Oftentimes, incorporating sedation alongside local anesthesia comes at an additional cost, as most dental insurance companies will not cover it. Additionally, teeth that must be removed surgically, such as wisdom teeth, are often more expensive because of the invasiveness of the procedure.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
The good news is that most dental insurance companies will cover a portion of the cost associated with your tooth extraction. Your policy may cover 50%, depending on whether you’ve met your deductible and whether you have existing funds available to use toward your annual maximum.
Our team will review your plan and determine the most effective way to maximize your benefits and help you save when undergoing this type of procedure.
Why Tooth Extractions are a Good Investment
Tooth extractions are often considered a good investment for many reasons:
- They can minimize future issues, including the spread of decay to nearby healthy teeth, which can lead to additional tooth loss.
- They can improve your oral health by ridding your mouth of a serious infection.
- They can prevent or address overcrowding, making it easier for your teeth to move during orthodontic treatment.
- They can improve gum health when periodontitis weakens the jawbone.
- They can reduce how much you will pay in the long run to address persistent oral health problems.