The Cheapest Place to Get Your Tooth Pulled
If you're dealing with tooth pain or a dental emergency, you need to see a dentist as quickly as possible. But, when you're on a budget, finding the cheapest place to get a tooth pulled is a must.
Here's what to know about tooth extraction and how to get dental service that doesn't cost a fortune.
How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost?
Prices for tooth extraction vary depending on your location and issue with your tooth. Your bill will also change depending on whether or not you have dental insurance.
The Cost of Getting a Tooth Pulled Without Insurance
Getting a tooth pulled can cost anywhere from $200-600, even in the cheapest places.
And the costs can climb, depending on why it needs extracting. For example, if your tooth is already broken, it may need surgery to remove pieces in the soft tissue of your gum.
Tooth Extraction With Insurance Cost
Traditional insurance typically covers between 50% to 80% of tooth extractions. But these plans don't always save you much.
Many dental insurance plans have an annual maximum of around $1,000 to $2,000, which can quickly add up. You may end up paying out of pocket for your procedure, even with dental insurance.
What's the Cheapest Place to Get a Tooth Pulled?
If you're struggling with the costs of dental work, there are alternatives. Here are ideas to find the cheapest place to get a tooth pulled.
1. Charity Dental Clinic
Some dental charities and offices offer Donated Dental Services (DDS). These programs are usually restricted to the disabled or senior citizens.
2. Dental School
A reputable dental school may be the cheapest place to get a tooth professionally pulled. Licensed dentists supervise the process.
However, if you’re having a dental emergency, dental school’s aren’t suitable for teeth extractions. You’ll most likely need an appointment for your treatment.
3. Local Health Department
Your local health department should provide dental work for the community. Costs vary but are less expensive than a traditional dental office.
Waitlists can get long and may not work if your tooth extraction is a dental emergency.
4. Clinical Trials
Dental clinical trials sometimes are among the cheapest places to get a tooth pulled. Look for trails at area universities or research hospitals. They may even compensate you for your participation.
However, getting placed in these trials is never a guarantee.
5. Your Nearest Dental Discount Plan Provider
A dental discount plan provider is also a great way to save on dental work. By having a dental discount program membership, you can save 15-50%* per visit in most instances off your tooth extraction costs.
Best of all, you don’t need a minimum or a limit, like for dental insurance. So, you can save on more treatments, not just tooth extractions.
How to Save Money on a Tooth Extraction
If you can't find the cheapest place to get a tooth pulled, there are ways to save money.
- Offer to pay cash upfront: Offering to pay in cash upfront sometimes results in a discount. Ask in advance to avoid any sticker shock during check-out.
- Think about dental tourism: Just like medical tourism, dental tourism is on the rise. Mexico is likely the cheapest place to get a tooth pulled. Or you could try Costa Rica and Thailand, that could end up saving up to 75% of what it would cost you in the United States.
- Ask about a payment plan: It's possible to save money with a dental payment plan. Ask your dentist's office if they offer multiple payment installments. Some dentists also provide no or low-interest dental loans so you can get the care you need right away.
Why Are Tooth Extractions So Expensive?
Tooth extractions are costly for various reasons, starting with how complex it can be. Bleeding gums, broken teeth, and infections could drive up the price.
Your anesthesia, medications, gauze, and the cost for a dentist, oral surgeon, and dental hygienist also add up.
How to Prevent a Tooth Extraction
Needing a tooth pulled is sometimes unavoidable. But you can do a few things you can do to prevent dental emergencies and protect your dental health.
Proper Dental Hygiene
Practicing proper dental hygiene can keep your teeth healthy. Brush your teeth twice a day in the morning and the evening, and don’t forget to floss. You should also clean your tongue and use mouthwash for optimal cleanliness.
Preventive Dental Treatments
Early treatment is vital in preventing tooth loss. Get regular check-ups and immediately see a dentist if your tooth is causing pain.
Getting dental cleanings twice a year is also great to prevent dental problems.
Root Canals
When cavities are left untreated, the pulp inside the tooth could get infected. A root canal helps treat the infected pulp inside of a tooth and eliminates infection. The procedure could resolve future problems with your tooth and stop the pain. However, root canals aren’t cheap either.
Sealants
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the surfaces of teeth. They're usually on the premolars and molars and help cover recesses that trap bacteria and decay. The result could lead to fewer cavities and tooth loss.
Depending on the treatment you receive, these options aren’t much cheaper than a tooth extraction. The upside is you may get to keep your tooth intact!
Save on Getting a Tooth Pulled
If you don’t have dental insurance, and you don’t qualify for charity dental clinics, the cheapest way to get a tooth pulled is with a dental discount plan like Carefree Dental.
Get 15-50%* off your dental bill at participating providers per visit in most instances for only $15.95/month for individuals and $19.95/month for families.
Restore your dental health at a fraction of the cost by signing up for Carefree Dental!
*Actual costs and savings vary by provider, service, and geographical area
The Carefree Dental blog is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The text and pictures within the content are intended for information purposes only. Readers should consult with a licensed dentist or healthcare professional before seeking treatment.
The Carefree Dental Card is not insurance, and Carefree Dental is not an insurance provider.
