Tooth Extractions – Williamstown, NJ
A Solution for Teeth That Are Beyond Repair
When you have a damaged tooth, we’ll always make sure that you’re well aware of any treatments that could be used to save it. But if the tooth can’t be fixed, a tooth extraction may be necessary. Rest assured that Dr. Kassem will not suggest this procedure lightly and that he’ll always carry out the treatment with your comfort in mind. Reach out to us today if you would like more information about tooth extractions and why you may need to have one performed to protect your smile.
Why Choose iSmile Dental Arts for Tooth Extractions?
- Walk-In Emergencies Welcome
- Dental Implants for Replacing Extracted Teeth
- Caring, Knowledgeable Dental Expert
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
Having a tooth removed is sometimes a necessary step for protecting your oral health. Below are a few examples of situations where a tooth extraction may be warranted:
- Severe Infection: The tooth in question is so badly infected that even a root canal treatment can’t salvage it.
- Extensive Damage: The tooth has been damaged to the point where fixing it with a crown or any other sort of restoration is no longer a viable choice.
- Preparations for Dentures: You have lost most of your teeth and need to have the remaining ones removed before you can receive dentures.
- Overcrowding: When teeth are crowded too closely together, there may not be enough room for a successful orthodontic treatment. As such, you might need to have an extraction performed before you can start the process of straightening your smile.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
We will only recommend a tooth extraction once we have ruled out other treatments that would allow you to keep all of your natural teeth. There are two types of extraction that we may suggest: simple and surgical.
A simple extraction is when the tooth in question is gradually loosened until it can be removed from its socket with forceps. You can have a simple extraction performed if the tooth has successfully erupted from beneath your gums.
In the case of a tooth that is impacted (meaning it has failed to emerge through the gums), a surgical extraction will be needed. During this process, a small amount of bone tissue may need to be removed along with the tooth. Additionally, it is sometimes necessary to take the tooth out in smaller sections rather than all at once.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Our team will give you clear instructions for taking care of your mouth following a tooth extraction. Here are some crucial steps that you should keep in mind:
- Keep the blood clot at the extraction site safe; you don’t want it to become dislodged and cause a dry socket. Don’t do anything that could disturb the clot, such as drinking through a straw or spitting.
- Over the next few days, make sure your head is raised whenever you go to bed.
- Maintain a soft food diet until your mouth has sufficiently recovered.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Like with many dental procedures, the cost of a tooth extraction can vary depending on your specific circumstances. We know that you will want to have an idea of what you will end up paying before you agree to any procedures, so our team will be more than happy to answer any cost-related questions you might have. You can count on us to put together a reliable estimate and walk you through your options for payment so that you can get the care you need in a way that’s right for your budget.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
During your initial consultation, we can go into more detail about the factors that have to be taken into account when determining the final price of your tooth extraction. In the meantime, here is a basic overview of what our team will need to consider:
- The Number of Teeth Involved: In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for us to extract more than one tooth for the sake of your oral health. Having multiple teeth removed tends to cost more than an extraction that only involves one tooth.
- The Specific Tooth or Teeth Being Removed: The teeth near the back of your mouth can be more difficult to remove due to having multiple roots and being located in an area where the jawbone is thicker. This can affect the cost of the extraction process.
- The Type of Extraction: If you’re told that you need a surgical extraction, you can generally expect it to cost more than a simple extraction.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
You should never make any assumptions about your dental insurance; after all, there are many different plans to choose from. We highly recommend calling your insurance company and asking about your current policy so that they can give you a clear idea of what sort of coverage is available. Of course, you can also speak to our team members if you need additional help understanding your benefits.
With all that said, most insurance plans do indeed include coverage for tooth extractions, often paying around 50% of the cost of the procedure. However, you may need to meet a deductible before your benefits kick in, and there could be other limitations depending on the policy.
How to Make Tooth Extractions Affordable
If you need a tooth extraction but don’t have dental insurance, you may want to consider signing up for our in-house benefits plan. One of the benefits of said plan is that you can get a 20% discount on our regular fee. As an added bonus, you don’t have to worry about any waiting periods, claim forms, or other headaches that often come with traditional dental insurance.
Another option is to apply for a CareCredit financing plan. You can pay for your treatment in smaller installments that are suitable for your financial situation, all at little to no interest. Feel free to call us if you have any questions about CareCredit and how to apply.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
What’s the Recovery for Tooth Extractions Like?
When you recover from having a tooth extracted, there is a long list of aftercare instructions that you need to abide by. In addition to resting, one of the most important parts of a smooth recovery is caring for the blood clot that forms in the socket where your tooth used to be. Neglecting to do this can cause painful complications, including dry socket. It’s also important to keep your smile clean to prevent infection. That’s why you will be given instructions on how to clean your teeth and mouth as you are healing. The process varies from patient to patient, but most start feeling better after about three days.
Can I Smoke After Getting a Tooth Extracted?
Using tobacco products can delay the healing process. You shouldn’t smoke immediately following your procedure. You should abstain from smoking for at least 5 days afterward. However, if you can, it is best to avoid smoking for two weeks. If you have had difficulty quitting in the past, don’t hesitate to let us know. Your dental team isn’t interested in passing judgment – they just want to help you prepare in advance.
How Should I Prepare for My Tooth Extraction?
The preparation for your tooth extraction is just as important as following the aftercare instructions. Before your procedure, you should ask your dentist any questions that you have so you can be ready the day of. If your dentist has any specific instructions, like only drinking water in the morning or picking up a prescription, be sure to make note of that. Try to get a good night's sleep the night before so you are ready to begin the healing process!
What Risks Are Involved with Tooth Extractions?
Fortunately, modern tooth extractions are considered to be extremely safe. However, with any procedure comes some risks. With tooth extraction, the primary risk is infection. That’s why it’s so important to keep your smile clean. Dry socket is another risk. This can be extremely painful and delay the recovery process. To prevent this from happening, your dentist will provide you with an extensive list of aftercare instructions as well as some signs to look out for. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
