Tooth Extractions – Boston, MA

Safe & Comfortable Tooth Removal

The objective of dentistry is to help people keep their natural teeth for as long as possible—ideally a lifetime. But there are times when tooth extraction is necessary. If you have a tooth that must be removed, then you can feel better knowing that the dentists at Devonshire Dental of Boston will perform tooth extractions in our Boston, MA dental office with skill, compassion, and attention to your comfort and safety.

Dental patient receiving tooth extraction

Why Choose Devonshire Dental of Boston for Tooth Extractions?

  • Same-Day Emergency Dental Appointments Available
  • We Always Keep Patients Comfortable
  • Led by Friendly Husband & Wife Dentists

Reasons for Tooth Extraction

Man in pain before tooth extraction

Tooth extraction may be needed for one of several reasons. One is a serious cavity. A tooth may be so severely damaged by decay that repair with a filling, inlay, onlay, or dental crown is not possible. In this case, removing the tooth is required in order to prevent the spread of infection and to eliminate any discomfort or pain that a large cavity can cause. Other reasons for tooth extraction include:

  • Impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth
  • A damaged tooth that cannot be reimplanted

Difficult to Reach Teeth

Woman holding jaw in pain before tooth extraction

A dentist in downtown Boston may also need to extract a tooth in preparation for orthodontic treatment. In this case, extraction helps to create enough space for your other teeth to move into proper alignment. Finally, advanced periodontal disease that has destroyed gum and bone tissue can cause teeth to loosen and require extraction.

How is a Tooth Extracted?

Metal clasp holding an extracted tooth

Feeling a bit anxious about having your tooth removed is quite natural. Don’t worry, though. Our team at Devonshire Dental of Boston offers oral conscious sedation so you can relax during your treatment. Once the local anesthetic has taken effect, the dentist will gently remove the tooth.

If the tooth has erupted through your gums, then it may be removed using applied pressure to the socket and dental forceps. If the tooth is impacted—which is often the case with wisdom teeth—then the tooth may need to be surgically divided and removed one section at a time from the underlying bone.

What About Recovery from Tooth Extraction?

Woman smiling and holding an extracted tooth

After having a tooth extracted, you can expect some bleeding and swelling. In most cases, firm pressure with a clean pad of gauze will slow and stop the bleeding. However, in the case of wisdom teeth or another molar, a few stitches may be necessary to help gum tissue heal. A cold compress for twenty minutes at a time will alleviate pain and swelling.

If you keep the extraction site clean and follow our recovery instructions, then your gums should heal in just a matter of a couple of weeks. The dentist can create a bridge, implant, or denture if you need to replace your extracted tooth. This prosthetic will look and function naturally so you can smile and eat with confidence.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

Illustration of forceps removing tooth

The cost of tooth extractions depends on a number of factors. When you visit us for your restorative consultation, we will be able to share some specific numbers with you. We will also make sure you understand your payment options, such as insurance. Most patients find that the price of their extraction procedure is manageable. Plus, it is a worthwhile expense because it can set you up for improved oral health in the future.

Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost

Patient smiling at dental team member

Some factors that can have a bearing on the cost of tooth extractions include:

  • The type of tooth that needs to be removed. Some teeth are more challenging to remove than others. Therefore, they tend to incur higher fees.
  • The number of teeth that must be extracted. Logically, it takes more time, effort, and money to remove multiple teeth than it does to remove just one.
  • The overall complexity of your case. We can perform most extraction procedures right here in our Boston dental office. However, if you have any complicating factors in your case, we might need to refer you to a specialist with a pricing structure that is different from our own.
  • Additional care. Sedation during your procedure, as well as tooth replacement afterward, can add significantly to the total cost of your care.

Our team will provide you with a detailed cost estimate so there are no unpleasant surprises when you have to pay for your treatment.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?

Money on top of insurance claim form

In most cases, yes, dental insurance does cover tooth extractions. Depending on the details of your situation, your procedure might be classified as a minor or major service. Therefore, anywhere from 50% to 80% of your costs might be covered. Our team is in-network with Delta Dental and BlueCross BlueShield, and we are happy to accept out-of-network PPO benefits as well. We will do all we can to help you take full advantage of your insurance.

Are you eager to learn more about tooth extractions and their cost? Our team would be happy to answer your questions! Call us today to find out how we may be able to serve you.