A broken tooth can quickly turn from a minor nuisance into a serious dental emergency. Whether it’s cracked from biting something hard or shattered due to an injury, a damaged tooth may need to be extracted to prevent further complications. But how much does a broken tooth extraction cost in Australia? And what does the procedure actually involve?
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about broken tooth extractions, including the types of procedures, average starting cost, how the price can vary depending on your situation, and how private health insurance might help with the bill.
Why Might a Broken Tooth Need to Be Extracted?
A natural tooth is designed to withstand a fair amount of force, but accidents, decay, and gum disease can weaken it over time. When a tooth becomes so damaged that it cannot be repaired with a crown or root canal therapy, a tooth extraction may become necessary.
Common reasons for extracting a broken tooth include:
- Severe pain or sensitivity from exposed nerves
- A tooth is broken below the gumline
- An affected tooth causing damage to neighbouring teeth
- Advanced decay or infection that compromises the surrounding bone
- Preparation for orthodontic or restorative dental procedures
Your dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding structures to determine whether extraction is the best option or if it can be saved with other dental treatments.
What Does a Tooth Extraction Involve?
The tooth removal procedure can be performed as either a simple extraction or a surgical extraction, depending on how damaged the tooth is and whether it’s impacted or fractured under the gum.
Simple Tooth Extraction
This is used when the broken tooth is visible above the gum line and can be removed easily. The dentist applies local anaesthetic, loosens the tooth with specialised instruments, and gently removes it from the socket.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
If the broken tooth is not fully erupted, has shattered into multiple pieces, or is impacted (as with some wisdom teeth), a surgical extraction may be required. This procedure involves making a small incision in the gum and possibly removing bone around the tooth to access it. Surgical extractions involve a more intricate procedure and generally come with a higher cost.
What’s the Cost of Broken Tooth Extraction in Australia?
A broken tooth might seem like a simple issue, but the cost of removing it can vary widely depending on several factors. From the type of extraction needed to the location of the tooth and your private health insurance coverage, many elements influence the final bill. Understanding the typical starting costs can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected surprises.
Starting Price Guide
The broken tooth extraction cost in Australia varies depending on the complexity of the case and the type of extraction needed. Here’s a general idea of the starting prices:
- Simple tooth extraction: from $180 AUD
- Surgical tooth extraction: from $350 AUD
These figures provide a basic estimate for standard dental services without additional treatments or complications. If you require sedation, deep cleaning, or post-operative care, the final dental bill could be higher.
Factors That Affect the Dental Extraction Cost
To give you an accurate estimate, your dentist will assess various factors that may influence the overall tooth extraction cost:
1. Type of Extraction
As mentioned earlier, a simple extraction is generally more affordable than a surgical tooth extraction, which requires more time, skill, and the expertise of dental professional.
2. Location of the Tooth
Wisdom tooth extraction and molar removals may be more expensive than front teeth due to their position and root structure.
3. Level of Damage
3. Level of DamageIf the broken tooth is deeply fractured, especially below the gum line, the procedure becomes more complex and, therefore, costlier.
4. Anaesthesia Requirements
Some patients may require local anaesthesia alone, while others may need sedation or general anaesthesia, especially for surgical extractions or impacted wisdom teeth.
5. Dentist Experience
Highly experienced dental professionals may charge more for their services, particularly for complex procedures.
6. Private Health Insurance Coverage
If you have private health insurance, part of the cost may be covered, depending on your level of coverage and whether the extraction is considered a medically necessary procedure.
Can Private Health Insurance Help Cover the Cost?
Yes, private health funds often offer partial or full coverage for tooth extractions under their extras policies, particularly if the procedure is essential for your oral health.
However, keep in mind:
- Not all policies cover surgical extractions or wisdom teeth
- You may need to serve waiting periods before making a claim
- Policies differ in annual limits and gap payments
It’s always best to check with your health insurance provider to see what’s included and request an itemised quote from your dental professional before proceeding.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Considered Urgent?
Tooth extractions are sometimes planned well in advance, especially for orthodontic purposes or when dealing with impacted wisdom teeth. However, there are times when an extraction becomes an urgent medical procedure that should not be delayed.
An emergency tooth extraction is often required when a damaged or broken tooth poses a risk to your overall oral or physical health. If left untreated, these issues can escalate quickly, leading to infection, severe pain, or even complications that affect other parts of the body.
Here are some signs that may indicate the need for an urgent extraction:
1. Severe, Persistent Pain
Pain that doesn’t go away, even with over-the-counter pain relief, can indicate serious issues such as infection, nerve damage, or pressure from an impacted tooth. A dental professional may recommend removing the affected tooth to ease the discomfort and stop the problem from spreading.
2. Swelling in the Face or Jaw
Swelling, especially if accompanied by tenderness or warmth, could be a sign of an abscess or infection. If left untreated, infections can enter the bloodstream and potentially impact other organs throughout the body. In such cases, urgent extraction may be necessary to remove the source of infection.
3. Infection or Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to bacterial infection, often at the root of a damaged or broken tooth. If the infection cannot be managed with antibiotics or root canal therapy, your dentist might need to extract the tooth quickly to prevent it from spreading.
4. Excessive Bleeding
A broken or decayed tooth that bleeds excessively, especially if caused by trauma or gum disease, should be addressed without delay. Continuous bleeding can indicate damage to the surrounding tissues or blood vessels and may require immediate attention.
5. Tooth Mobility or Trauma
Teeth that are loose or have been knocked out of position due to injury or accident often require immediate assessment. A tooth that has fractured below the gum line or split into pieces may be too damaged to save, and an emergency extraction can help stop additional harm to the nearby teeth and jawbone.
6. Fever or General Illness
A fever in combination with tooth pain, swelling, or redness may be a sign of a serious infection. If these symptoms are present, you should seek urgent dental care. Delaying treatment increases the risk of systemic infection.
7. Impacted or Infected Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth that become infected, inflamed, or start causing crowding can escalate into a dental emergency. If they cause recurring infections or pressure against neighbouring teeth, urgent removal may be recommended.
What Should You Do if You Suspect an Emergency?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, it’s important to contact your dentist immediately. Many dental clinics offer emergency dental services and will prioritise urgent cases to prevent further complications.
Delaying necessary tooth extraction in an emergency can lead to:
- Worsening pain and infection
- Damage to neighbouring teeth
- Higher dental treatment costs
- Extended healing times
- Risk of systemic health issues
Prompt treatment not only alleviates discomfort but also protects your long-term dental health.
What Happens After the Tooth Is Extracted?
Following the tooth extraction procedure, your dentist will give you instructions for proper care of the extraction site to support healing and prevent infection.
Common Post-Extraction Care Tips:
- Bite down on gauze to encourage a blood clot to form
- Avoid smoking or using straws, as these can dislodge the clot
- Stick to soft diet and avoid chewing on the extraction site
- Use pain relief and antibiotics if prescribed
- Attend any recommended follow-up appointments
Healing time can vary depending on whether it was a simple extraction or surgical removal, but most patients recover within one to two weeks.
What Are the Options After Tooth Removal?
Losing a natural tooth doesn’t mean you’re left with a gap forever. Once the area heals, your dentist may discuss restorative dental procedures to replace the missing tooth.
Some common options include:
- Dental implants: A long-term solution that looks and functions like a natural tooth
- Dental bridges: A prosthetic tooth held in place by the adjacent teeth
- Dentures: Removable replacements for multiple missing teeth
Your dental care plan will depend on your oral health, the number of extractions needed, and your budget.
Is It Ever Better to Save the Tooth?
While tooth extraction can be the right solution in some cases, it’s not always the first option your dentist will recommend. Preserving your natural tooth is generally considered better for your long-term oral health if it’s still viable. A healthy, natural tooth helps maintain the alignment of your bite, supports neighbouring teeth, and preserves the bone structure in your jaw.
When Saving the Tooth Is Possible
There are situations where a broken or damaged tooth can be treated and restored instead of removed. Here are some treatment options that may help save a tooth:
- Root canal therapy: If the inner pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal can clean and seal the root, allowing the tooth to remain in place.
- Dental crowns: For teeth that are cracked, worn down, or broken above the gum line, a crown can restore function and appearance.
- Composite bonding or fillings: For minor to moderate fractures, composite materials can be used to rebuild the shape of the tooth and protect it from further damage.
- Deep cleaning and gum treatment: In cases where gum disease is causing the tooth to become loose or compromised, scaling and root planing may help restore oral health and stabilise the tooth.
When Extraction Becomes Necessary
Despite modern advances in dental care, not all teeth can or should be saved. Your dentist may advise extraction if:
- The tooth is broken below the gum line and cannot be reconstructed.
- There is severe decay that has reached the root and surrounding bone.
- The tooth is infected and not responding to root canal treatment.
- Gum disease has caused extensive bone loss around the tooth.
- The tooth is severely mobile or poses a risk to neighbouring teeth.
In such cases, keeping the tooth could lead to further pain, infection, or more complex dental procedures in the future.
FAQs About Broken Tooth Extractions in Australia
How do I know if my broken tooth needs extraction?
If the tooth is severely fractured, painful, or below the gum line, your dentist may recommend extraction.
What’s the difference between simple and surgical extraction?
A simple extraction removes a visible tooth. A surgical extraction involves accessing a tooth below the gum line or in multiple fragments.
Is a broken tooth extraction painful?
The procedure involves local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. Post-op soreness is common but manageable with pain relief.
Final Thoughts: Getting the Right Care at the Right Price
Tooth extractions, especially for a broken or damaged tooth, can feel overwhelming. But knowing what to expect in terms of cost, procedure, and recovery can help you feel more confident in your next steps.
If you’re facing discomfort or swelling or suspect a broken tooth, don’t wait too long. Speak with your dentist immediately for a thorough evaluation and tailored advice. Your oral health is worth investing in.
While the broken tooth extraction cost in Australia starts from around $180 AUD, prices can vary depending on the type of extraction, your dental insurance coverage, and whether complications are involved. Getting a personalised consultation will give you the most accurate estimate and help you plan your dental care with clarity. Book your dental visit today at (08) 7078 8263.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
- Healthline. (n.d.). Tooth extraction: Procedure, healing, and recovery. https://www.healthline.com/health/tooth-extraction
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Abscessed tooth. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10943-abscessed-tooth
- American Association of Endodontists. (n.d.). What is a root canal? https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/
- Oral-B. (n.d.). Bone loss in the jaw. https://www.oralb.co.uk/en-gb/oral-health/conditions/other-oral-health-conditions/bone-loss-in-the-jaw
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Dental implant surgery. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622