Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a tooth extraction cost without insurance?
Tooth extraction cost without insurance ranges between $250-$400 per tooth.
How painful is a tooth extraction?
Advancement in dentistry has made getting tooth extraction a pain-free process. Local anesthetics are used to ensure patient comfort and a painless dental experience. Patients can experience some soreness and tenderness in the extraction site afterwards that can be remedied with over-the-counter pain medications.
What should I avoid after a tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, avoid exercising or lifting anything heavy that can cause bleeding. Consider it a personal day to prioritize your health. Avoid drinking through a straw or splitting, that can cause increased bleeding. Avoid spicy food that can irritate the extraction site. Avoid seeds that can get stuck in the socket and irritate the extraction site. Avoid Alcohol.
If you smoke, do not smoke for the next 7 days to prevent an EXTREMELY PAINFUL DRYSOCKET! Use a Nicotine patch in the meantime.
Should I take a day off work after tooth extraction?
It is not necessary to take a day off work after a tooth extraction. While at work, avoid exercising or lifting anything heavy that can cause bleeding.
Why do I need bone graft after a tooth extraction?
Bone graft is necessary after a tooth extraction to preserve the bone level at the extraction site in case you would like to place a dental implant in the future. Bone graft placement is necessary after a tooth extraction to preserve the bone level at the extraction site to prevent the nearby teeth from leaning into the empty space.
What happens if you have a tooth pulled and don't replace it?
If you have a tooth pulled and don’t replace it, the bone surrounding the extracted tooth will resorb and cause the nearby teeth to shift and lean into the empty space. The opposing tooth will super-erupt (grow longer) into the empty space and hit the other teeth at an odd angle that may cause them to fracture. Bone graft is necessary after a tooth extraction to preserve the bone level at the extraction site. Missing tooth should be replaced with a dental implant or a Bridge to prevent teeth from shifting or super-erupting.
How long after tooth extraction can I eat?
After a tooth extraction, you can start eating soft foods within a few hours. It is recommended that you eat soft foods and avoid any spicy foods and food with seeds that can irritate the extraction site.
What helps severe pain after tooth extraction?
After tooth extraction, these instructions are recommended for pain relief:
Lightly rinse with Saltwater.
Apply Ice packs.
Eat Soft Foods.
Take Pain medications (ibuprofen and acetaminophen combination)
Get Proper Rest.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking.
What is the best pain relief after tooth extraction?
Take Ibuprofen and acetaminophen together can provide the best pain relief after a tooth extraction. Ibuprofen & acetaminophen combination provides more effective pain relief than when taken by themselves. All medication should not exceed the recommended dosage indicated on the bottle.
How long should it take to recover from tooth extraction?
Recovery time varies between patient to patient, but most people start feeling much better within 3 days. It takes up to 3 weeks for the gum to completely heal. It takes up to 3 months for the bone to completely heal.
Should you brush your teeth the day of an extraction?
You can brush your teeth after tooth extraction but be gentle and avoid the extraction site. Afterwards, very lightly rinse with a cup of warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean to help with healing.
Can I drive after a tooth extraction?
If you’ve were administered local anesthesia and is alert after the extraction, you can drive after a tooth extraction. If you feel groggy after a tooth extraction, you should have someone drive you home.