Tooth extraction cost without insurance

Simple vs surgical extraction cost

A simple extraction costs less than a surgical one because the tooth is fully visible and comes out with forceps; a surgical extraction (D7210) means the dentist has to cut the gum, remove bone or section the tooth. Typical national self-pay fees are $240 and $400 per tooth.

Both figures are anchored on two fee sources that agree: FAIR Health claims data, where a simple extraction averaged $153 and a surgical one $268 in 2014, and the 2020 ADA Survey of Dental Fees, which put a simple extraction at about $190. We brought them to 2026 dollars with the dental services price index.^[1][2][4] What patients paid themselves varies much more than the per-tooth fee, because visits combine several services: the median self-paid extraction or oral surgery visit cost $600 in 2024, one in four under $295 and one in four above $1,200.^[5]

Wisdom teeth that are impacted in the gum or bone use different, more expensive codes; see wisdom tooth removal cost.

What else is on an extraction bill

Expect at least an exam and an X-ray on top of the extraction, plus a bone graft if you plan to replace the tooth with an implant later. Ask which of these your quote already includes.

The socket graft figure comes from the 2022 ADA fee survey (about $617), inflated to 2026 dollars;^[3][4] the exam and X-ray rows scale the VA's 2026 reasonable-charge schedule (about $134 and $51 at the 80th percentile) to typical fees.^[6] Sedation is optional for most simple extractions, where local anesthetic is part of the fee.

Worked example: a surgical extraction in Pennsylvania

One surgical extraction outside Philadelphia, with a problem exam, an X-ray and a socket graft, typically costs about $1,215, or $515 without the graft. The area's geographic adjustment factor is 0.947.

Extraction now, replacement later

Pulling a tooth is the cheapest option today, but replacing it later costs far more than the extraction: the American Association of Endodontists says saving a natural tooth with a root canal is generally less expensive than extracting and replacing it.^[7] Compare the totals before you decide: a molar root canal and crown on the root canal cost page, or an implant with the dental implants cost calculator. Your dentist decides which teeth can be saved; this page only compares prices.

Common mistakes with extraction quotes

• Quoting "an extraction" without saying simple or surgical. The surgical code costs about $160 more at typical fees, and it is sometimes decided in the chair. Ask for both prices up front.
• Not asking about the graft. If you might want an implant later, ask whether a socket graft is planned and what it costs.
• Assuming Medicaid will not help. In 2025, 38 states and DC had enhanced adult Medicaid dental benefits; five states covered only emergencies and Alabama had no adult benefit.^[9]
• Accepting the list price. Insurers pay about 72% of list prices,^[8] so ask for a self-pay price before treatment.

Ways to pay less for a tooth extraction

1. Dental schools do extractions at reduced rates, supervised by licensed dentists.^[10][11]
2. Community health centers with dental services slide fees by income, down to a nominal charge at or below the poverty line.^[12] See sliding scale clinics.
3. Ask for a written estimate with codes; uninsured patients have a right to a good faith estimate for scheduled care.^[13]
4. Use HSA or FSA money; the IRS lists extractions as a deductible dental expense.^[14]
5. Spread the cost with an interest-free office plan; compare plans on the dental payment plan page.