Tooth extraction cost guide

How much does a tooth extraction cost in 2026?

Bottom line: A simple tooth extraction costs $150–$400. A surgical extraction (for broken teeth or complex roots) costs $250–$600. Tooth extraction is one of the most affordable dental procedures, but the real cost consideration is what comes next — replacement options like implants or bridges add significantly to the total.

Tooth extraction cost by type

Extraction typeDescriptionCost range
Simple extractionVisible tooth, forceps removal$150–$400
Surgical extractionBroken tooth, complex roots, incision needed$250–$600
Impacted tooth (non-wisdom)Tooth under gum or bone$400–$800
Emergency extractionSame-day, after-hours$200–$600 + emergency fee
Full mouth extractionAll remaining teeth, pre-denture$3,000–$8,000

Total cost including tooth replacement

The extraction itself is only part of the financial picture. Leaving the gap from a missing tooth causes bone loss and shifting of neighboring teeth. Replacement options add significantly to the total cost:

Does insurance cover tooth extractions?

Simple extractions are covered as basic restorative care — typically 70–80% after your deductible. Surgical extractions are covered at 50–80% as oral surgery. Emergency visits and after-hours fees may not be covered. Always call your insurer before an extraction to understand your out-of-pocket liability.

Extraction vs. root canal: which should you choose?

A root canal ($700–$1,800) plus crown ($1,000–$3,500) saves the natural tooth. An extraction ($150–$400) is cheaper upfront but typically requires a $3,000–$5,000 implant for a long-term solution. Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better medical and financial choice when it's viable. See our root canal cost guide for a full comparison.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a tooth extraction take? +
A simple extraction takes 20–40 minutes from start to finish, including anesthesia. A surgical extraction takes 45–90 minutes. You'll be numb for 2–4 hours after. Most patients return to desk work the same day or next day.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction? +
Stick to soft foods for 24–48 hours — yogurt, smoothies, soup, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs. Avoid anything hard, crunchy, or chewy that could disturb the clot. No straws for the first 72 hours. Gradually reintroduce normal foods as healing progresses over 3–5 days.
Can I get a tooth extracted with no money? +
Yes, options exist. Community dental clinics and dental school clinics offer significantly reduced rates ($50–$150 for simple extractions). Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) use sliding-scale fees based on income. Emergency Medicaid covers extractions in most states for qualifying individuals.
Sources: American Dental Association (ADA) Health Policy Institute; American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) 2025 Consumer Survey; National Center for Health Statistics. All costs reflect 2026 US national averages and are estimates only. Individual prices vary by provider, location, and insurance plan.