In the United States, the average tooth extraction cost is approximately $324. On the low end, the cost of tooth extraction may be around $218 while on the high end getting a tooth extraction costs as much as $424. This article breaks down data from over 1,000 dentists from across the United States, and details the cost of extractions, to help patients make an informed decision about their oral health. It will also discuss the different factors that can affect the final tooth extraction cost so that patients never receive surprise bills in the mail.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. It is also called tooth pulling or tooth removal. Tooth extractions are performed for a variety of reasons, including:
- Tooth decay that has damaged a tooth beyond repair
- Infection in the tooth that cannot be treated with antibiotics
- Crowding of teeth that requires removal of one or more teeth to make room
- Risk of tooth infection after an injury
- Tooth damage from tooth grinding (bruxism)
What Factors Affect Tooth Extraction Costs?
Age of the Patient
Tooth extractions for adults typically cost more than tooth extractions for children. This is because pulling of children’s teeth typically only involves the crown, or visible part of the tooth, since the roots have usually been reabsorbed by the body. Adult tooth extractions, on the other hand, may require the removal of the entire tooth, including the root.
If the Tooth is Visible or Not
Another factor that affects tooth extraction cost is whether the tooth is visible or not. Visible teeth are called erupted teeth while teeth that are not visible are called impacted. Dentists charge more for impacted tooth extractions because they require more time and effort.
Complexity of Treatment
Another factor that affects tooth extraction cost is the complexity of the treatment. Some tooth extractions are relatively simple and only require the removal of the tooth. However, other tooth extractions may be more complex and require the removal of bone or tissue around the tooth. These types of tooth extractions typically cost more because they are more difficult to perform.
Location of the Dentist
The location of the dentist also affects tooth extraction costs. Dentists in rural areas typically charge less for tooth extractions than dentists in urban areas. This is because the cost of living is typically lower in rural areas, which means that dentists can charge less for their services.
What is the Average Cost of Tooth Extractions Based on These Factors?
Although there are various factors affecting the cost of tooth extractions, we can take a look at the average costs of current dentists to help inform our decision-making. The following data is from a survey completed by over 1,000 dentists from across the United States:
| Tooth Extraction Type | Average Tooth Extraction Cost ($) | Low-End Tooth Extraction Cost (10th percentile) | High-End Tooth Extraction Cost (90th percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extract Crown of Child’s Tooth | 134.94 | 88 | 185 |
| Extract Visible Adult Tooth (Simple Complexity) | 189.83 | 135 | 260 |
| Extract Visible Adult Tooth (Difficult Complexity) | 291.53 | 220 | 365 |
| Extract Impacted Adult Tooth (Simple Complexity) | 335.51 | 250 | 424 |
| Extract Impacted Adult Tooth (Medium Complexity) | 417.17 | 312 | 519 |
| Extract Impacted Adult Tooth (Difficult Complexity) | 505.38 | 383 | 630 |
| Removal of Residual Adult Tooth Roots (cutting procedure) | 304.09 | 200 | 395 |
| Removal of Adult Tooth Crown (Intentionally leaving roots) | 415.76 | 160 | 618 |
| Average Costs | 324 | 218 | 424 |
For a full breakdown of all dental procedure costs click here.
How can I get a Low-Cost Tooth Extraction?
At the end of the day, tooth extraction can be expensive. To help, there are a few ways that patients can get low-cost tooth extractions.
Dental Schools
One way to get low-cost tooth extractions is to go to a dental school. Dental schools are educational institutions that train students to become dentists. They typically have clinics where students can gain hands-on experience treating patients. The treatments provided at these clinics are usually very cheap or even free. However, the downside is that students typically are much slower and less experienced than practicing dentists.
Community Dental Clinics
Another option for getting cheap tooth extractions is to go to a community dental clinic. Community dental clinics are non-profit organizations that provide dental care to underserved communities. They typically offer their services at a reduced cost or even for free. However, the downside is that these clinics are often very busy and have long waitlists.
There are a few organizations that provide free tooth extractions to low-income individuals. One such organization is the Dental Lifeline Network. The Dental Lifeline Network is a non-profit organization that provides free dental care to low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Another organization that provides low-cost extractions is the Give a Kid a Smile Program from the American Dental Association. The Give a Kid a Smile Program is a non-profit organization that provides free dental health education, screenings, preventive care, and/or treatment for kids.
HMOs
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are organizations that provide health insurance coverage to their members. Many HMOs have dental plans that cover part or all of the cost of tooth extractions. However, the downside is that HMOs often have a limited network of dentists that they work with.
Dental Discount Plans
Another option for getting a low-cost tooth extraction is to sign up for a dental discount plan. Dental discount plans are not insurance plans, but rather membership plans that offer discounts on dental services from a network of dentists. These plans typically have an annual fee that entitles the member to a certain percentage off of dental services. The downside is that dental discount plans often have a limited network of dentists that they work with.
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are organizations that provide health insurance coverage to their members. Many HMOs have dental plans that cover part or all of the cost of a dental implant. However, the downside is that HMOs often have a limited network of dentists that they work with.
Dental Discount Plans
Another option for getting a low-cost tooth extraction is to sign up for a dental discount plan. Dental discount plans are not insurance plans, but rather membership plans that offer discounts on dental services from a network of dentists. These plans typically have an annual fee that entitles the member to a certain percentage off of dental services. The downside is that dental discount plans often have a limited network of dentists that they work with.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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