Dental Extractions in Park Slope
While Dr. Frank Sapienza does everything possible to save your natural teeth, sometimes their removal is necessary to prevent the spread of infection or to protect the surrounding natural teeth. With a gentle approach and years of experience, Dr. Sapienza provides second opinions as well as comfortable dental extractions in Park Slope.
When Teeth Need Extraction
Extraction is the last resort for a severely infected, aching, or otherwise problematic tooth. A root canal may save a damaged or decayed tooth from extraction -- but when all options are exhausted, the tooth needs to be removed.
In cases of tooth crowding, one or more healthy teeth may need to be extracted to make room for orthodontic treatment.
The most common reason for tooth extraction is for an impacted or infected wisdom tooth. There is rarely enough room for these third molars which may appear between ages 15 and 25. When wisdom teeth cannot erupt properly, they become infected, painful, and/or cause crowding in the surrounding teeth.
What to Expect from Tooth Extraction
If you have been told you need a tooth extraction, we recommend coming to The Dental Spa of New York for a second opinion from Dr. Sapienza, who believes in conservative dentistry with a gentle touch.
If it is determined that an extraction is best for your smile, you will either have a simple or a surgical extraction. Simple extractions are possible when the tooth is visible and can be removed with forceps in a single piece. No stitches are needed for a simple extraction.
Surgical extractions -- often used for wisdom teeth -- are performed when the tooth is only partially visible, has come in at an angle, or is completely trapped beneath the gumline. Dr. Sapienza cuts open the surrounding gum tissue and removes the tooth in multiple pieces. The gum tissue is then closed with stitches.
Local anesthesia and options in sedation are available for both types of extraction.
Recovering from a Tooth Extraction
If your tooth is removed with a simple extraction, the recovery is fast and associated with little discomfort. Surgical extractions, however, require stitches and therefore have longer healing periods.
Follow Dr. Sapienza’s recovery instructions carefully, taking all medicine as directed and taking it easy for the first several days following your procedure.
Plan ahead before your tooth extraction, and stock your fridge and pantry with soft, nutritious foods. Soups, vegetable purees, eggs, and fruit smoothies are good choices as you begin your recovery. Do not drink out of a straw, as this can dislodge the sutures.
With plenty of rest, relaxation, and proper care, your symptoms should improve every day. Contact your dentist if symptoms (bleeding, swelling, discomfort) worsen or do not get better after several days have passed.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Do you suspect or know you need a tooth extraction in Park Slope? Do not put it off -- infections and pain will not get better on their own. Dr. Sapienza provides comfortable extractions when absolutely necessary. Request an appointment today!
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Even if you need a tooth extracted, the treatment price may make you hesitate. That’s a normal reaction – a procedure won’t be helpful if it “breaks the bank.” However, the cost of tooth extractions varies by patient. You’ll need to consult with Dr. Sapienza to get an exact estimate. From there, our office can guide you through the treatment’s cost factors and financing options. If you want to learn more, just keep reading or call us today!ra
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
During the initial consultation, Dr. Sapienza will closely examine the affected tooth (or teeth). Doing so lets him assess the factors that’ll impact your final treatment price. In particular, such things include the following:
- Number of Teeth: If you get multiple teeth pulled, you’ll pay more than you would for a single extraction. After all, the former option involves more work for the dentist.
- Tooth Type & Location: Depending on the tooth’s type and location, pulling it could get pricey. Some teeth cost more to extract than others. For example, pulling a wisdom tooth can be expensive due to involving complex methods.
- Extraction Difficulty: With a simple tooth extraction, the cost usually isn’t too high. In contrast, a surgical one requiring tissue removal is costlier.
- Tooth Replacement: Tooth extraction will cost more if you get a tooth replacement afterward. Plus, the extra expense will depend on whether you get dentures, dental bridges, or dental implants.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
In most cases, dental insurance will cover a tooth extraction. Since the latter counts as a major dental procedure, dental plans tend to see them as medically necessary. As a result, they’ll often meet up to 50% of an extraction’s price. You’ll need to pay the deductible first, though.
Of course, there are occasional exceptions. Perhaps your own policy covers a limited number of teeth. On the other hand, it may require a long waiting before coverage “kicks in.” In light of these things, you ought to confirm your benefits before seeking treatment. Our team will happily help you do so.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
Dental insurance isn’t the only way to make an extraction more affordable. As a matter of fact, many practices offer financing options for their patients. The right one could help make your extraction’s cost much more manageable.
Just look at The Dental Spa of New York, for instance. Our office actually works with CareCredit, a well-regarded financier. Through them, you could easily pay for treatment with monthly low-interest installments. Such gradual payments would make an extraction’s price less burdensome.
In the end, The Dental Spa of New York wants to give you an extraction that’s budget-friendly. That being the case, learn more about financing it by booking a consultation!