Tooth Extractions – Enfield, CT

Gentle, Compassionate Tooth Removal

Here at Four Town Dental in Enfield, we strive to help our patients retain their natural teeth for a lifetime. Sadly, though, that is not always possible. Circumstances may arise that require us to perform gentle, compassionate tooth removal. Read this page to gain an overview of why tooth extractions are sometimes necessary, what happens during the procedure, and how you can enjoy a smooth recovery following this restorative service. Call us if you have any questions about what you learn.

Why Choose Four Town Dental for Tooth Extractions?

Sedation Promotes Patient Comfort
Multiple Tooth Replacement Options
Expert Team of Dentists

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

Here are some reasons why we may determine that is necessary to remove one or more of a patient’s teeth:

A tooth is so badly decayed or damaged that we cannot preserve it with a crown, filling, or other restorative service.
It is necessary to make more room in the mouth for dentures or orthodontic appliances.
A tooth is badly infected, and we want to stop the infection from spreading into nearby tissues.
One of a child’s primary teeth did not fall out when it should have and is interfering with the development of incoming adult teeth.
A tooth is impacted (stuck beneath the gumline).
The wisdom teeth are threatening the well-being of nearby dentition.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

Tooth removal is usually pretty straightforward. First, we numb your mouth so you will feel little to nothing during the procedure. We may also administer sedation. Once you are comfortable, we use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth out of its socket. Then, we hold it with forceps and rock it back and forth to break the connective tissues that are holding it in place.

Once the tooth is out, we clean the socket and use gauze to control bleeding. Later, we will talk with you about your options for tooth replacement.

Of course, some extractions are a bit more complex. We might have to create incisions or break a tooth into pieces. Even if that is necessary, you can still expect a comfortable and efficient treatment process.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Here are some practical things you can do to promote a smooth recovery following your extraction procedure:

Take all medications as prescribed by your dentist.
After the first 24 hours, begin regularly rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
Do not smoke.
Do not use a drinking straw.
Get plenty of rest.
Prop your head up on pillows when you are lying down.
Do not engage in strenuous physical activities.
Call our office if you have any questions or concerns.
Attend all follow-up appointments as recommended by our team.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

The cost of tooth extractions can vary depending on a number of factors. When you visit us, we will be able to discuss specific numbers with you. This procedure is affordable for most patients, especially if they take advantage of available provisions. For example, you may be able to use financing and insurance. Our team will answer all of your questions about your payment options so you clearly understand the financial aspect of your care.

Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost

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

The type and location of the tooth that needs to be removed. Some teeth, such as wisdom teeth, tend to be much more difficult to remove than others. Therefore, they come with higher fees.
The number of teeth that needs to be extracted. It stands to reason that removing just one or two teeth will lead to a lower bill than the removal of several teeth.
The overall difficulty/complexity of the case. We can perform the majority of tooth extractions right here in our Enfield dental office. In some cases, though, we have to refer patients to an outside specialist, whose pricing structure may be quite different from our own.
Additional care. If you pursue tooth replacement after your extraction, it can add significantly to the total cost of your care. Similarly, sedation during your procedure will increase your total financial obligation.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?

Most dental insurance policies do cover tooth extractions. Usually, simple extractions are considered to be a minor service, so up to 80% of their price may be covered. Complex or surgical extractions are often 50% covered. Our team welcomes insurance, and we will be happy to help you figure out how your benefits apply. We will do all we can to help you take full advantage of your policy so your out-of-pocket costs are as low as possible.

Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable

Insurance is just one provision that may make your tooth extractions more affordable. Additional resources include:

Financing. Most patients are eligible for low-interest financing through CareCredit. Upon approval, you may be able to choose a monthly payment amount that fits in with your family’s budget.
Essential Dental Plan. This discount plan is designed for patients without insurance. In exchange for a reasonable fee, it provides reduced prices on virtually all of the services available in our practice.

Would you like to learn more about tooth extractions and their cost? Our team is ready to assist you. Get in touch with us today so we can answer your questions and get you on the path to a healthier smile.

Tooth Extractions FAQs

Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?

We take measures to keep our patients comfortable during extractions. For example, we will apply plenty of local anesthesia. We may also administer sedation to help you stay relaxed and calm. Therefore, you should feel little to no discomfort during the procedure itself.

After the anesthesia and sedation wear off, you can expect to experience some soreness and swelling. Usually, such symptoms go away within a few days to a week.

Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?

Typically, a tooth extraction is a last-resort treatment that we recommend after considering all other possibilities. We want to allow you to keep your natural teeth whenever possible! That is why, very often, we use root canal therapy, crowns, and other restorative procedures to repair even badly damaged teeth.

However, there does come a point at which it would not be possible or practical to attempt to save a tooth. When that occurs, an extraction becomes the best option.

What Is the Difference Between Tooth Extractions and Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

Most tooth extractions are fairly simple. We simply elevate the tooth, grasp it with forceps, and carefully remove it. Wisdom tooth surgery is a special type of tooth extraction that can be more complicated in nature. Due to the location of these teeth and the fact that they are often impacted (stuck beneath the gumline), surgery may be necessary to remove them. We might need to create incisions in your gums or break a tooth into pieces in order to completely extract it.

What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?

There are three basic options for tooth replacement:

A traditional fixed bridge can replace 1 – 3 teeth in a row. It relies on the nearby remaining teeth for support. Bridges are relatively affordable and strong enough to stand up to normal daily use. They can also have a pleasing appearance.
Traditional dentures, whether partial or full, are removable prosthetics that fill in gaps in your smile. They are aesthetically pleasing, easy to clean and maintain, and highly functional.
Dental implants rebuild lost teeth from the roots up. They can replace any number of missing teeth and offer outstanding stability and strength. They are often regarded as the gold standard of tooth replacement.

Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?

After the removal of wisdom teeth or supernumerary (extra) teeth, it is fine not to pursue tooth replacement. In almost all other circumstances, though, replacing extracted teeth is important.

Without a prosthetic to fill the gap in your smile, you might end up facing a few serious complications, including dental drift (your teeth can shift out of their proper places), increasing wear and tear on your remaining teeth, and even additional tooth loss. You may also experience feelings of self-consciousness about your appearance. Timely tooth replacement can prevent such issues and preserve your oral health.