Tooth Extraction — Gentle Removal When Needed
When a tooth cannot be saved, our experienced team makes the extraction process as comfortable and stress-free as possible — with sedation options and same-day appointments available.
Nobody wants to lose a tooth — and at Summit Ridge Dental, saving your natural tooth is always our first priority. But when a tooth is severely damaged, badly infected, or causing crowding, extraction may be the best path to protecting your overall oral health. Whether you need a simple extraction or a surgical wisdom tooth removal, our team ensures you are comfortable, informed, and well cared for throughout the process.
When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Your dentist may recommend extraction when a tooth is too damaged by decay or fracture to be restored, when advanced gum disease has caused significant bone loss around the tooth, when wisdom teeth are impacted or causing problems, when teeth need to be removed to prepare for orthodontic treatment, or when an infection cannot be resolved with root canal therapy.
Simple vs. Surgical Extraction
A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is fully visible above the gum line. The tooth is loosened and removed with specialized instruments. Recovery is typically quick — most patients feel back to normal in 3 to 5 days.
A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken below the gum line, has curved or complex roots, or is impacted (as is common with wisdom teeth). A small incision in the gum may be needed, and the tooth may be sectioned into pieces for easier removal. Surgical extractions take slightly longer to heal — about 7 to 10 days.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Scottsdale, Tempe & Gilbert
Wisdom teeth — the third molars at the very back of your mouth — often cause problems because there is not enough room for them to fully emerge. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infection, cysts, damage to neighboring teeth, and crowding.
Our dentists evaluate wisdom teeth with digital X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging to plan the safest, most efficient removal. We offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. Most patients are back to their normal routine within a few days.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Step 1: Evaluation and Imaging
Your dentist reviews digital X-rays or a 3D scan to assess the tooth's roots, surrounding bone, and the best approach for removal.
Step 2: Anesthesia and Sedation
The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Nitrous oxide or oral sedation is administered if requested.
Step 3: Extraction
For simple extractions, the tooth is loosened and gently removed. For surgical extractions, a small incision is made and the tooth may be sectioned before removal.
Step 4: Socket Care
Gauze is placed to control bleeding and promote clot formation. Dissolvable stitches are placed if needed. You receive detailed aftercare instructions.
Step 5: Tooth Replacement Planning
If the extracted tooth needs to be replaced, your dentist discusses options including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. In some cases, an implant can be placed at the same appointment as the extraction.
How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost in Scottsdale?
Simple extractions in the Phoenix metro area typically range from $150 to $350 per tooth. Surgical extractions, including impacted wisdom teeth, range from $300 to $650 per tooth. These costs vary depending on the complexity of the case.
Most dental insurance plans cover extractions as a basic or major procedure. We are in-network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife, UnitedHealthcare, and many other plans. For uninsured patients, our Summit Savings Plan provides 15% off all treatments, and we accept CareCredit and Lending Club financing.
Experienced, Gentle Extraction Care
All three Summit Ridge Dental doctors perform extractions, including surgical and wisdom tooth cases. Our team prioritizes your comfort and uses the latest techniques to minimize discomfort and speed recovery.
Tooth Extraction — Frequently Asked Questions
Simple extractions typically range from $150 to $350. Surgical extractions, including wisdom teeth, range from $300 to $650. Most dental insurance covers a portion. We also offer CareCredit and our Summit Savings Plan.
No. The area is fully numbed with local anesthesia. Sedation options are available for anxious patients or complex cases. You may feel pressure during the procedure but not sharp pain.
Simple extractions: 3 to 5 days. Surgical/wisdom teeth: 7 to 10 days. Most patients return to work or school the next day. Follow the aftercare instructions carefully to ensure smooth healing.
In most cases, yes. A gap can cause shifting, bite problems, and bone loss. Options include dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Wisdom teeth do not need replacement.
Wisdom teeth should be removed when they are impacted, partially erupted, causing crowding, or prone to repeated infection. Your dentist evaluates them with X-rays and recommends removal if they pose a risk.
After Extraction: Your Replacement Options
Dental Implants
The gold standard for replacing a missing tooth — permanent, natural-looking, and bone-preserving.
Learn more →Dentures
Full and partial dentures to restore your smile when multiple teeth are missing.
Learn more →Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous oxide and oral sedation options for a stress-free extraction experience.
Learn more →Need a Tooth Extracted? We Make It Easy.
Same-day emergency extractions available. Sedation options. Three convenient locations open Saturdays.