Dentists remove a tooth in an emergency when it's too broken, loose or infected to save, or when a wisdom tooth is badly infected. Many general dentists do simple extractions the same day; surgical or wisdom-tooth extractions may be referred to an oral surgeon. Among offices that publish prices, a simple extraction is typically $190–$300.
When a tooth needs to come out
- A tooth broken below the gum line or split down the middle
- A severe infection when a root canal isn't possible or not chosen
- A tooth loosened by advanced gum disease or injury
- An infected or impacted wisdom tooth causing swelling and pain
Saving a tooth is usually preferable, so ask whether a root canal and crown are an option and what each choice costs over time.
Simple or surgical
A simple extraction is done on a visible tooth with local anaesthetic, usually in a short visit at a general dentist's office. A surgical extraction involves cutting the gum or removing bone, often for broken-off roots and impacted wisdom teeth, and may be done by an oral surgeon, sometimes with sedation. 9 oral surgeons are listed in our directory.
What it costs
Among offices in our directory that publish their prices, a simple extraction is typically $190–$300, before the exam and X-rays. A surgical or wisdom-tooth extraction is priced higher, but too few offices publish it to give a range: ask for a written estimate. Prices vary with the tooth, the difficulty and the region; our cost calculator adjusts the published figures for your state.
Recovery: the first 24 hours
- Bite on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes to let a clot form.
- Don't rinse, spit forcefully, drink through a straw or smoke for at least a day; it can dislodge the clot and cause a painful "dry socket".
- Use a cold compress on the cheek and take pain relief as your dentist advises.
- Eat soft, cool food and chew on the other side.
- From the next day, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
Call the office if bleeding won't stop, pain gets worse after day two or three (a sign of dry socket), or swelling and fever develop.
Questions
Can I get a tooth pulled the same day?
Often, yes, for a simple extraction at a general dentist. Complex or wisdom-tooth extractions may be referred to an oral surgeon.
How much does an emergency tooth extraction cost?
Among offices that publish prices, a simple extraction is typically $190–$300; a surgical extraction is priced higher, but too few offices publish it to give a range: ask for a written estimate.
Will they pull an infected tooth?
Usually yes. Sometimes the dentist prescribes antibiotics first if there's a lot of swelling.
Sources
This guide is general information, not dental or medical advice. If you are unsure, call a dentist; for breathing or swallowing problems or spreading swelling, call 911.