Tooth Extractions – Louisville, KY
Painlessly Removing Problematic Teeth
As dental professionals, our goal is always to save your natural teeth. Unfortunately, however, there are some cases where that’s simply not possible. When we’ve exhausted all other options, we’re left with only one: extraction. The good news is that you’re in good hands with our dedicated, experienced, and caring periodontist, Dr. Franco Cordini, because he goes the extra mile to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Why Choose Cordini Periodontics and Dental Implants for Tooth Extractions?
- Top-Rated Dental Team on Google
- Periodontist with 20+ Years of Experience
- Several Types of Dental Sedation Available
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
We typically recommend a tooth extraction in Louisville when:
- A tooth has been damaged beyond the point of repair
- Space needs to be made in the mouth prior to orthodontic treatment
- A baby tooth refuses to fall out on its own
- A tooth is impacted below the gum line
If you’re unsure whether you’d benefit from this procedure, the best thing to do is to schedule an appointment with our team at Cordini Periodontics and Dental Implants. That way, we can learn more about your concerns, take the necessary X-rays, complete a visual exam, and determine if proceeding with an extraction is the best option for the long-term health and appearance of your smile.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
When patients hear “tooth extraction,” they often think of a tooth being rocked loose until it’s ready to be removed. This is known as a “simple extraction,” but it’s only an option when the tooth in question has broken through the gumline. If it’s trapped underneath, then Dr. Cordini will need to intervene with a surgical extraction. This involves him making a small incision in the gums to assess the tooth. Then, he can remove it section by section and tend to the extraction site.
Important reminder: The first step of the process – whether it’s a simple or surgical extraction – is always to numb your mouth thoroughly. As a result, you won’t feel any pain in the process.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
When you return home, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions we give you. Some general ones include:
- Not spitting, using a straw, or smoking
- Keep your head elevated, including while you sleep
- Take prescribed or OTC pain medication as directed
- Place a cold compress against the outside of your cheek
- Brush and floss carefully around the extraction site
- Avoid strenuous exercise, like HIIT training
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are among the more affordable services we offer. Of course, there are factors that can significantly affect their cost. During your consultation, our Louisville team will share specific numbers and help you understand payment options, such as insurance and financing. Remember that this procedure is an important investment that can set you up for improved oral health and pain-free dental function.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
Some factors that may have a bearing on the cost of your extraction procedure include:
- The number of teeth that need to be extracted: Logically, removing just one tooth costs less than removing multiple. (Of course, removing several teeth at once is often cheaper than having multiple teeth removed at separate appointments.)
- The specific teeth that need to be removed: Some teeth are easier to extract than others, which can affect associated fees. For example, removing impacted teeth is a surgical procedure that costs more than simpler extractions.
- Additional care: Tooth extractions are not frequently a standalone service. Sedation during your procedure can add to your financial obligation, as can tooth replacement afterward or additional care for gum disease.
You can count on our team to be transparent with you about pricing information so there are no unpleasant surprises when you pay for your care.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
Very often, yes, dental insurance does cover tooth extractions. Simple extractions are usually classified as a minor procedure, so they may be up to 80% covered. Surgical extractions are frequently 50% covered. Our team welcomes insurance, and we will be happy to help you with the process of using your benefits, from preauthorization to filing claims and beyond. With assistance from their plan, many patients are able to reduce their out-of-pocket obligation by hundreds of dollars.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
Outside of insurance, other provisions that could make it easier to afford your tooth extraction procedure include:
- Financing: We accept financing through CareCredit and Proceed. Applying for credit through these third-party companies is fast, and most patients are readily approved for a low-interest payment plan that fits their budget.
- HSA and FSA funds: Tooth extractions are often approved uses for healthcare savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) funds.
Are you ready to learn more about tooth extractions and their cost? Our team would be happy to answer your questions, so do not hesitate to reach out to us today.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does getting a tooth extracted hurt?
Although it would theoretically hurt to get a tooth extracted without numbing your mouth first, your comfort is Dr. Cordini’s main priority, and he will always ensure that you are completely numb before beginning your procedure.
Following your tooth extraction in Louisville, it is normal to experience some soreness and discomfort that lasts for several days. However, by closely adhering to your aftercare instructions, you can dramatically reduce your risk of post-op infections and speed up the healing process.
Should your pain get worse instead of improving after about two or three days, or if you notice any signs of infection such as a fever, please contact us as soon as possible.
Is there an alternative to a tooth extraction?
Whether there’s an alternative to tooth extraction in Louisville depends largely on why it needs to be removed in the first place. If it’s because of an infection or severe decay, it may be possible to restore the tooth’s health with a root canal. If you have damage due to periodontal disease, root scaling and planing or other periodontal therapy treatment could also help protect your smile. However, chances are if you’ve been told you need an extraction, this is the best option for restoring your healthy, pain- free grin.
What’s the difference between tooth extractions and wisdom tooth surgery?
While they may seem similar, a regular tooth extraction in Louisville can be very different from wisdom tooth surgery. That’s because unlike with regular, fully erupted teeth that can typically be pulled out with forceps, surgical wisdom tooth extraction removes teeth that are impacted below the gumline and may require additional steps such as incisions in the gums, sutures, and breaking the tooth into smaller pieces to free it from the jaw.
Can I leave the space empty after a tooth extraction?
This depends on the location of the tooth being pulled. If it’s a wisdom tooth, yes, you can absolutely leave those spaces empty after your extraction. If your tooth needs to be removed due to crowding, you should also not need to replace it. However, if it is any other type of tooth, it is important to fill in the space in your arch it – even if it’s not visible when you speak or smile.
Teeth are essential for not just smiling, but for helping you to speak clearly and eat a full diet. Thus, after your mouth has healed from the extraction, Dr. Cordini would be pleased for you to schedule an appointment to return to the office to discuss your tooth replacement options.