Dr. Shiba and her staff want to ensure you that your health is our highest priority. Our commitment to your safety is the foundation of our care.
Check out our recent COVID-19 Protocols.

Is Tooth Extraction Under General Dental Insurance?

Posted on 1/15/2024 by Nancy Shiba DDS

Row of wooden tooth shapes, one of which is being pulled out of the row by dental pliers.

Undoubtedly, we would all like to go through life with all our natural teeth intact. However, some dental problems necessitate tooth extraction, especially after a general dentist has used all the tools available and their vast experience to save a tooth.

What Is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction refers to removing a tooth that is beyond saving to prevent it from causing oral problems. Usually, tooth extraction is performed at a dental clinic by a general dentist. The dentist can use anesthesia to numb the area and eliminate pain during the tooth extraction.

Simple Extraction vs. Surgical Extraction

The tooth extraction process can be determined as simple or surgical. The process is called simple when the tooth that should be extracted is still above the gum line and visible in your mouth. However, a surgical extraction means removing a tooth that is hidden below the gum line. Simple extraction is not complex, and you will find these services in the general dentistry section. However, surgical tooth extraction is a complex process that can be done only by an oral surgeon.

Is Tooth Extraction General Dental?

The first category of dental services is preventative, including routine dental exams, cleanings, and X-rays. General dental covers 100 percent of the cost of these services. The second category of dental services has basic services, including simple treatments like fillings and tooth extraction. The third category has major services like dental implants, crowns, and oral surgeries.

Tooth extraction is covered under general dental, the second category of basic dental services. When you have general dental cover, your insurer covers about 80 percent of the cost you will incur following a tooth extraction procedure.

However, tooth extraction ceases to become general dental when your dentist believes you need a surgical extraction. The complexity and the specialization needed in a surgical extraction procedure shift from the category of basic service to that of major services, which are not covered under general dental.

Should you need your teeth extracted, do not hesitate to call us. A full assessment by our dentist will provide clarity on the insurance coverage you need for the procedure.

Our Office
In San Jose

Nancy Shiba, DDS

125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1903

Phone

(669) 306-7669

Hours

Mon: 9AM–6PM
Tue: by appointment
Wed: 9AM–6PM
Thur: 9AM–3PM
Friday: 8AM–5PM
Sat & Sun: Closed

New Patient Forms

Request Appointment

Membership Programs

Dental Blog • Nancy Shiba, DDS
Nancy Shiba, DDS, 125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1914 \ (669) 306-7669 \ nancyshibadds.com \ 10/7/2024