Losing a tooth is something that most people want to avoid at all costs, however, sometimes it's necessary. Having missing teeth is more common than you may realize. Nearly 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. There are a variety of reasons why you may need to have a tooth removed. Decay and injury are two of the most common reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. On occasion, teeth may also need to be removed due to crowding or to help with orthodontic treatments. No matter what reason you have for tooth removal, here are three things you should consider.

The Cost

Cost is one of the first things that you may consider when it comes to any dental procedure. There are two types of tooth extractions: surgical and non-surgical. Non-surgical extractions are typically for teeth that have erupted over the gum line, while surgical extraction is typically for teeth that are impacted, such as wisdom teeth. The average cost of a non-surgical extraction is between $75 and $300 while a surgical extraction will typically cost between $150 and $650. Typically dental insurance will pay between 70 and 80 percent of the cost if the tooth extraction is considered medically necessary.

Healing Time

Another thing to consider when it comes to tooth removal is the amount of healing time you will require. Healing typically takes between one to two weeks. Ice is typically used to reduce swelling after the procedure and painkillers may be needed. It's also recommended that you limit activity for a few days and eat soft foods until healing begins. Brushing and flossing are a must to prevent infection, but it's important to avoid the extraction site. 

Tooth Replacement

Once your tooth has been extracted, it's important to look into your tooth replacement options. After a tooth is removed, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift. This can have a negative impact on your bite and the appearance of your teeth. There are a variety of tooth replacement options to choose from including dental bridges, dentures, and tooth implants. Dental implants are the most natural-looking and feeling option but are also the most expensive costing between $2,400 and $3,000 for a single implant on average. Dental bridges range from $500 to $3,000 and can replace multiple teeth. Mid-range dentures are typically $1,000 to $3,000 for a full set.

Tooth removal is something that many people need at some point in their lives. If you have to have a tooth removed, here are three things to consider. First, consider costs. The cost can vary with surgical extractions being pricier than non-surgical extractions. Recovery time can vary, but most are back to normal within one to two weeks. After losing a tooth, the rest of your teeth can shift which is why tooth replacement may be needed. If you think you need it, talk to a dentist about your tooth extraction options.