Tooth Extractions in Lakewood and Denver
When a painful, infected or badly damaged tooth cannot be predictably saved, removing it may protect your health and help you move forward. Star Dental explains the X-rays, options and next steps before treatment.
We Look at Whether the Tooth Can Be Saved First
An extraction is not automatically the first answer to tooth pain. Depending on the diagnosis, a filling, crown, root canal or other care may preserve the tooth. Removal may be recommended when the tooth is no longer predictably restorable or when keeping it poses a greater risk.
- Deep decay or an infection that has damaged too much of the tooth
- A crack or fracture extending below the gumline
- A broken tooth or root that cannot support a reliable restoration
- Advanced gum disease with severe loss of support and mobility
- Dental trauma that has made the tooth non-restorable
- An impacted or poorly positioned tooth that is causing problems
- Teeth that must be removed as part of a carefully planned denture treatment
Simple, Surgical and Situation-Specific Extractions
The approach is based on how much tooth is visible, the shape and position of the roots, nearby bone and anatomy, the reason for removal, your health history and the number of teeth involved.
Simple Extraction
Used when an erupted tooth is visible and can be loosened and removed without surgical access. The area is numbed with local anesthetic before the tooth is carefully removed.
Surgical Extraction
May be needed when a tooth is broken near or below the gumline, difficult to access, unusually shaped or covered by gum or bone. The tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for controlled removal.
Broken Tooth or Root Removal
A badly fractured tooth may leave too little structure to grasp normally. X-rays help the dentist locate the remaining roots and choose the safest removal approach.
Infected or Emergency Extraction
When a tooth is causing significant pain, abscess or spreading infection and cannot be saved, extraction can remove the source. The dentist first evaluates swelling, medical history and the appropriate treatment sequence.
Multiple or Pre-Denture Extractions
When several non-restorable teeth are removed, treatment is coordinated with the plan for healing and tooth replacement. Star Dental's denture team can discuss partial and complete denture options.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Impacted, partially erupted or problematic third molars have different planning considerations. Visit our dedicated wisdom teeth removal resource.
Some cases benefit from specialist care
If the tooth's position, root anatomy, medical considerations or expected complexity calls for an oral surgeon, the dentist will explain why and help guide the next step. A careful referral is part of appropriate treatment planning—not a delay in care.
The X-Ray Helps Answer More Than “Which Tooth Hurts?”
Pain can travel, and the tooth that feels sore is not always the source. A focused examination and appropriate imaging help the dentist see what cannot be evaluated from the surface alone.
- How far decay or fracture extends
- The number, length and curvature of the roots
- Infection or changes around the root and bone
- The tooth's relationship to the sinus, nerves and neighboring teeth
- Whether a simple or surgical approach is more likely
- Whether restoration, extraction or referral is the appropriate next step
Star Dental uses modern digital and panoramic X-rays when appropriate for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Your Tooth Extraction Visit, Step by Step
Listen & Examine
We review your symptoms, health history and medications, then examine the tooth and surrounding tissues.
Take the Right X-Ray
Imaging helps evaluate the roots, bone, infection and nearby anatomy so the procedure can be planned.
Review Your Options
The dentist explains whether the tooth may be saved, why removal may be recommended and whether referral is appropriate.
Numb & Remove
Local anesthetic is used for comfort. You may feel pressure and movement, but tell the team if you feel sharp pain.
Protect the Site
The socket is cleaned, gauze is placed and stitches may be used when needed. You leave with specific aftercare instructions.
How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost?
There is not one responsible price for every extraction. A visible, stable tooth that can be removed simply is different from a broken tooth, curved roots or a surgical removal. The total also depends on what must be diagnosed and whether additional care is selected.
Call 303-222-1414 even if you do not have insurance. Our team can ask a few questions, explain the evaluation process and help you understand what information is needed before a reliable estimate can be given.
Factors that can affect extraction price
Access and complexity change the procedure.
Breakage, infection and remaining structure matter.
Root number, shape and position affect planning.
One tooth and multiple extractions differ.
The diagnosis determines which X-rays are needed.
Comfort options or tooth-replacement planning may affect total cost.
An examination and appropriate X-ray are normally needed before the dentist can determine the extraction type and provide an individualized treatment estimate.
Nervous About Having a Tooth Removed?
That is common, especially when the tooth already hurts. The goal is to make the area thoroughly numb, tell you what to expect and keep communication open throughout the procedure.
- Local anesthetic numbs the tooth and surrounding tissue
- Pressure and movement can be normal; sharp pain should be reported
- The dentist can pause and recheck comfort when needed
- Let us know about dental anxiety, previous difficult experiences or medical concerns
- Bring a current medication list and tell us about blood thinners or major health conditions
Protect the Blood Clot While the Socket Begins to Heal
A protective blood clot forms in the socket after removal. Follow the instructions given for your specific procedure; they may differ based on the tooth, your health and the complexity of treatment.
Helpful aftercare
- Bite on gauze exactly as directed to control bleeding.
- Rest and keep your head elevated during the early recovery period.
- Choose cool or lukewarm soft foods and drink water.
- Use prescribed or recommended medication only as directed.
- Keep the rest of the mouth clean and follow instructions for gentle rinsing.
- Call if symptoms are worsening rather than gradually improving.
Avoid early in healing
- Smoking or vaping, which can delay healing and raise dry-socket risk.
- Straws, forceful spitting or vigorous rinsing that may disturb the clot.
- Poking the site with fingers, the tongue or other objects.
- Hard, sharp, crunchy or very hot foods near the socket.
- Heavy exercise or lifting until the dentist says it is appropriate.
- Taking medications differently from the instructions.
What is dry socket?
Dry socket can occur when the protective clot breaks down or is displaced, exposing sensitive bone and nerves. Pain that becomes intense or starts increasing several days after an extraction—especially if it travels toward the ear or has a bad taste or odor—should be reported to the dentist. Treatment may include cleaning and a soothing medicated dressing.
Plan for Healing and, When Appropriate, Tooth Replacement
Not every extracted tooth must be replaced—wisdom teeth are a common example—but replacing other missing teeth may help chewing, appearance and the stability of surrounding teeth. The appropriate timing and option depend on the location, bone, gums, number of missing teeth and your goals.
Star Dental offers full, partial and replacement dentures with an onsite denture technician. When extraction and denture care are connected, the team can coordinate the sequence so you understand each appointment.
Questions to discuss before removal
- Can this tooth be predictably restored?
- Is the extraction simple or surgical?
- Would a specialist referral improve safety or predictability?
- What should I do with my medications?
- How should I prepare for recovery?
- Should this tooth eventually be replaced?
- What costs and insurance benefits apply to my plan?
Medicaid, PPO Insurance and Uninsured Patients Welcome
Star Dental accepts Health First Colorado Medicaid and most PPO plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife and Guardian. Coverage depends on eligibility, diagnosis, plan rules and the specific procedure, so our team confirms benefits for each patient.
Convenient, Clear and Patient-Focused Extraction Care
Open Seven Days
Weekday, Saturday and Sunday hours give patients more opportunities to be evaluated when dental pain disrupts life.
Se Habla Español
Spanish-speaking staff are available every day to help explain appointments, insurance questions and next steps.
Modern Dental Imaging
Digital and panoramic X-rays support diagnosis, extraction planning and patient education when appropriate.
Medicaid Accepted
We welcome Health First Colorado patients and confirm benefits and coverage for the recommended treatment.
Adults & Families
Our office cares for adults, children and older adults in a friendly environment without making the experience feel rushed.
Easy to Reach
Find us at Sheridan and Florida in the King Soopers plaza, with free onsite parking and wheelchair accessibility.
Detailed Answers to Common Questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
How do I know whether my tooth can be saved?
What is the difference between a simple and surgical extraction?
Can Star Dental remove a broken tooth or a root left below the gum?
Can an infected tooth be extracted?
How long does a tooth extraction take?
How much is a tooth extraction without insurance?
Does Health First Colorado Medicaid cover tooth extractions?
Do I need antibiotics before or after an extraction?
Can I drive myself home?
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
How long is recovery?
When should I call after an extraction?
Will I need to replace the extracted tooth?
Continue With the Information You Need
Get Clear Answers About a Painful, Broken or Infected Tooth
Call Star Dental to describe what is happening. We will help you arrange an evaluation and explain what information is needed to determine the right treatment.