A procedure to remove a tooth is known as a tooth extraction. In some cases, it is referred to as “having a tooth pulled.” Extractions may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired. Additionally, extractions may be needed due to a fractured tooth, an impacted tooth, severe gum disease, or an injury. 

Types of tooth extractions

There are two main types of tooth extractions:

• Non-surgical extraction is sometimes called a “simple extraction” and is typically used for teeth that are visible above the gumline and can be removed with dental instruments using gentle pressure.
• Surgical extraction is more complex and may be needed if a tooth is broken or impacted – either in the bone or in the gums. This procedure often involves  making a small incision in the gum and, in some cases, removing bone or dividing the tooth into sections for easier removal.

The approach your dentist takes will depend on the condition of the tooth and surrounding tissue and bone.

How much does a tooth extraction cost?

The cost of a tooth extraction can vary based on the type of extraction and your dental benefits. On average, the out-of-network costs for each type of extraction are:

• Non-surgical tooth extraction: Between $150 and $310 per tooth
• Surgical tooth extraction: Between $260 and $460 per tooth¹

If you have a dental insurance plan that covers costs for tooth extraction treatment and you visit an in-network dentist, the cost will be less.

Curious about the cost of a tooth extraction? Read our guide on wisdom tooth removal (even if your extraction isn’t a wisdom tooth; it contains a lot of good information!) and then use our cost estimator tool to find a price range for a tooth extraction in your area.

What does the price of a tooth extraction include?

The cost of a tooth extraction can vary depending on your oral health needs and dental coverage, but in most cases, the price includes the anesthesia and the extraction itself.  

Additional costs may apply for exams, X-rays, sedation if needed, or if the extraction is more complex. Your dentist can help outline what is included and what is required for recovery and follow-up care.

Are there alternatives to tooth extractions?

Sometimes, a tooth can be saved instead of removed. Depending on how much damage or decay is present, your treatment can range from minor to major in terms of complexity. Your dentist can help determine the best option based on the condition of your tooth.

If the damage to the tooth is minor, a dental extraction would most likely not be the first line of treatment. Dental procedures to restore the tooth include:

• Fillings: A common restorative treatment used to repair cavities or missing tooth structure by filling in the damaged area of the tooth, helping restore its shape, strength, and function.
• Dental crowns: Tooth-shaped “caps” that fit over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, strength, appearance, and function. Crowns are usually made from materials such as metal or porcelain.

If the damage has progressed but the tooth can still be saved, alternatives to dental extractions include:

• Root canal treatment: A dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, then cleans, disinfects, and seals the area to eliminate bacteria, prevent reinfection, and save the natural tooth. Root canal-treated teeth typically need to also be restored with a crown.
• Apicoectomy: A surgical procedure where the end of a tooth’s root and any infected tissue are removed and the root is sealed with a small filling.

Does Delta Dental offer insurance that covers tooth extractions?

Most Delta Dental plans do help cover the cost of tooth extractions, though coverage can vary depending on your specific benefits. Take a look at our individual and family plans to find one that meets your dental care needs.

If you already have dental insurance, check your plan for full details. Whether you have insurance or not, you can also ask your dentist for a pre-treatment estimate to better understand the total costs for treatment.

What are other ways to plan for the cost of a tooth extraction?

In addition to the amounts paid for by your dental plan, there are other tools available to help cover the cost:

• Health Savings Account (HSA): If you’re enrolled in a high-deductible health plan, you might have the option to contribute to an HSA, which allows you to use pre-tax dollars for eligible health care expenses, including many dental procedures. Unused funds roll over from year to year.
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): Provided and funded by your employer, an HRA can reimburse you for qualified medical and dental costs, depending on your plan’s structure.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): FSAs also let you set aside pre-tax money for eligible expenses, but unlike an HSA, funds usually need to be used within the plan year. Contribution limits are also typically lower.

Since coverage varies by plan, it is a good idea to confirm whether your tooth extraction qualifies under your HSA, HRA, or FSA by contacting your administrator.

Talk to your dentist about tooth extraction

If you think you may need a tooth removed, your dentist can help you understand your options and estimated costs. It is also important to check your dental benefits plan to understand what is covered.