What To Know About Tooth Extractions
Having a tooth removed is something that most of us try to avoid at all costs. However, there are a variety of reasons why you may need tooth removal. Often a tooth needs to be removed due to dental decay or due to injury. Certain types of illnesses may also lead to the need for tooth extractions. In some cases, you may have to have a tooth removed because of overcrowding or for orthodontic treatments. Wisdom tooth removal is something that many also end up needing. If you require a tooth extraction, here are three things to know about this procedure.
There's More Than One Type of Extraction
If you need a tooth extraction, the first thing to know is that there is more than one type of tooth extraction procedure. Simple extractions are done on teeth that have erupted and that can be seen above the gum line. This type of tooth extraction procedure can be done in-office and involves removing the tooth with forceps. The other type of tooth extraction procedure is surgical extraction. This type of extraction is typically done on a tooth that's below the gum line or one that has been broken or that is difficult to extract. With a surgical extraction the gum is cut and some of the bone around the tooth may need to be removed.
The Cost of Extractions
Another thing to consider when it comes to tooth extractions is how much they cost. The total cost will vary depending on the tooth being removed and the type of extraction needed. Simple extractions typically range in cost between $75 and $300. Surgical tooth extraction procedures are typically more expensive, costing between $150 and $650 on average. If your extraction is needed for medical reasons, dental insurance will typically cover between 70 and 80 percent of the costs.
Healing Time Will Vary
If you have a tooth extracted, how long it takes to heal will vary depending on your healing rate and the type of extraction. In most cases, the area will heal within 7 to 10 days. After an extraction, it's very important to keep the site clean, follow your dentist's aftercare instructions, and to eat soft foods. A painful condition called dry socket can develop if the blood clot within the tooth socket becomes dislodged.
If you are getting a tooth extraction, there are a few things that you should be aware of. First, there are two main types of extractions, simple and surgical. Costs will vary depending on the type of extraction needed and the location of the tooth. Healing time will also vary but you should be back to normal after a week and a half.
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