Tooth Extractions - Wall Township, NJ
Stress-Free Tooth Removal
The team at Shore Points General and Implant Dentistry is able to repair even severely damaged teeth in most cases, but sometimes, a tooth may simply be too broken or decayed to be saved. That’s when we usually recommend an extraction, and we make sure the process is completely comfortable from beginning to end. Then, if needed, we can help a patient replace their tooth right away to maintain their healthy bite and smile. Do you think one of your teeth needs to come out? If so, give us a call today to discuss tooth extractions in Wall Township.
Why Choose Shore Points General and Implant Dentistry for Tooth Extractions?
- Trusted by Wall Township Since 1989
- Patient Comfort is Our Top Priority
- Friendly & Highly-Experienced Team
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
One of our main goals is to preserve as many natural teeth as possible. However, it isn’t always viable to keep a tooth if it puts the rest of your smile at risk. Our team may recommend removing a tooth if:
- It has a very large cavity, and the decay is beginning to spread to the surrounding teeth.
- Physical trauma has broken the enamel to the point that it can’t be restored.
- Advanced gum disease has made the tooth unstable and about to fall out.
- Failing teeth need to be removed to make room for a new denture.
- A weakened tooth is going to be replaced with a dental implant.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
Tooth extractions are typically performed by either pulling or via surgical removal. For the first option, we can only “pull” a tooth that has already emerged from underneath the gumline. Of course, we’ll first numb your mouth with a local anesthetic to ensure you’re completely pain-free. We’ll then use a clasping tool to wiggle your tooth around until it comes out of your gumline. If this method isn’t possible, then we’ll have to extract it surgically. This will involve making a small incision in the gums to access the rest of the tooth so that we can remove it.
Our team will determine the best approach for your tooth extraction during your consultation. We’ll thoroughly assess the situation and walk you through the process. We can also review your tooth-replacement options which will be necessary to avoid further oral health complications due to tooth loss.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Before and after your tooth extraction procedure is completed, we’ll provide you with a specific aftercare guideline to help you have a speedy recovery. While every patient is different, you can expect a more comfortable healing process by practicing the following measures:
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Use an ice pack to alleviate discomfort and swelling.
- Refrain from drinking through a straw.
- Rinse your mouth gently with saltwater a day after your appointment to clean the area.
- Get lots of rest for optimal recovery.
- Rest with your head elevated.
- Avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or crunchy.
- Stay away from tobaccco products until your mouth is fully recovered.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Having a tooth extracted is never your dentist’s first choice. If there is an option to save it, that is preferred. However, sometimes an extraction is necessary to preserve the health of the rest of your smile. One concern that you might have about your upcoming procedure is the cost. We won’t be able to tell you the exact cost until you see us in person, but here are some things for you to consider in the meantime.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
During your appointment with us, we will closely examine your smile and determine whether an extraction is necessary. If one is needed, here are some of the main factors that contribute to the cost:
- Number of Teeth: The more teeth that you have extracted, the higher the cost will be.
- Difficulty of Extraction: If your extraction is more challenging and takes longer to perform, the cost will be affected.
- Tooth Replacement: In most cases, the extracted tooth needs to be replaced afterward to prevent additional oral health issues. We can discuss tooth replacement options and put together a treatment plan that’s ideal for you.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
A tooth extraction is considered to be a major procedure, so about half of the cost is usually covered after the deductible has been met. However, there could be limits in place that only cover a certain number of teeth, or there could be a waiting period before your coverage kicks in. Every plan is different, so it’s important to confirm with your insurance company first so there aren’t any surprises. If you have any questions regarding your coverage, we would also be happy to help!
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, this doesn’t mean you will be left completely on your own. With our Wellness Savings Plan, you can receive all the preventive care you need and save 20% on services completed at our practice. To learn more about your financial options, don’t hesitate to talk to one of our friendly team members.
To find out exactly how much you can expect to pay for your tooth extraction, schedule an appointment with us. We’re eager to help restore your smile to health!
Tooth Extractions FAQs
From the process of removing a tooth to what to expect afterward, we’ve covered a lot of important information about extractions on this page. If you still have some lingering questions on your mind that you’d like answered before your appointment, you’re always welcome to contact our team directly! Or, you can read on – we’ve answered FAQs below.
Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?
There are some cases where we don’t want to replace the tooth, like if we removed it due to overcrowding. However, a good chunk of the time we are removing teeth that are decayed, cracked, or otherwise damaged. In that case, we need to fill the open space to avoid complications, like difficulty chewing. Don’t worry – we will review all of this information with you during your initial consultation so you have a thorough understanding of what’s best for your unique dental needs.
What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?
Not only are there several tooth-replacement solutions available, but the options today are more lifelike, comfortable, and durable than ever before! Dentures are a great example because they are custom-made from the best dental materials, which results in them looking nothing like the old, obtrusive, and obvious restorations of decades past. Dental implants are also a sought-after tooth-replacement solution because they offer several unique benefits, including jawbone stimulation and a 25+ year lifespan (with proper care).
What Can I Do to Speed Up the Healing Time?
Remember, the healing period is crucial, so it’s important to be very intentional during this period of time. With that said, there are a few things you can do to prevent complications and delays. For example, you shouldn’t lift anything heavy or exercise for at least the first 24 hours. Additionally, you should avoid eating crunchy, acidic, and sugary foods since they can cause uncomfortable irritation. Lastly, do what you can to alleviate the swelling as well as any soreness that arises by using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time, keeping your mouth clean, and taking over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Thankfully, the answer is no. Before beginning the extraction process, we will thoroughly numb the area of your mouth that we’ll be working on. We’ll also check-in with you throughout your time in the treatment chair to make sure you’re still completely comfortable.
Important note: As we touched on in the previous section, some discomfort following the procedure is normal. To combat this sensation, follow all of the aftercare instructions, like using a cold compress and taking OTC pain medication as instructed.