How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost in the UK? 2025 Guide

You can expect to pay between £95 and £600 for a tooth extraction in the UK. The exact amount varies based on the type of extraction, your location, and whether you choose NHS or private care.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything about tooth extraction costs in the UK, from simple extractions to wisdom tooth removal and surgical procedures. In addition, you'll learn what affects the price and how to choose the right option for your needs.

Key Takeaways

Before we dive in, here are the important facts you need to know:

• Average tooth extraction in the UK: £95 – £600
• NHS tooth extraction: £73.50 (Band 2 treatment)
• Private tooth extraction cost in the UK: £95 – £250 for simple extractions
• Wisdom tooth extraction cost in the UK: £150 – £600
• Surgical tooth extraction cost in the UK: £200 – £600
• Tooth extraction under general anesthetic in the UK cost: £500 – £1,500+
• Tooth extraction under sedation cost UK: Additional £200 – £400
• Child tooth extraction private cost in the UK: £80 – £200

Now, let's explore each option in detail so you can make an informed decision.

What’s the Average Cost of Tooth Removal in the UK?

The costs vary depending on the type of extraction:

How Much Does a Simple Tooth Extraction Cost?

Simple tooth extraction is a quick and relatively comfortable procedure. Your dentist numbs the area with a local anaesthetic. Then they use special instruments to gently loosen and remove the tooth. Most simple extractions take just 10–20 minutes.

How Much Does Surgical Tooth Extraction Cost in the UK?

A surgical extraction is more difficult than a simple removal. Sometimes, a bit of surrounding bone needs to be removed, or the tooth may be gently divided into sections to make extraction easier and minimize trauma to the area.

You might need a surgical tooth extraction if:

• The tooth is broken below the gum line
• The tooth hasn't fully erupted
• The tooth has curved or multiple roots
• There's significant bone loss around the tooth

The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes. Recovery takes longer than simple extractions, usually 1–2 weeks.

What is the Price for Child Tooth Extraction in the UK?

Children sometimes need tooth extractions for various reasons. Baby teeth might be severely decayed. Permanent teeth might be overcrowded. Or there might be an infection that cannot be treated otherwise.

• NHS cost for children: Free for under-18s.
• Parents often choose private extraction for their children because of faster access and child-friendly environments. Private dentists can also spend more time with anxious children.

How Much Does a Tooth Extraction with Sedation Cost in the UK?

What are the Prices of Tooth Extraction Under General Anaesthetic in the UK?

How Much Does the Extraction of Wisdom Tooth Cost and Why is it More Expensive?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually appear in your late teens or early twenties. For many people, however, there isn’t enough room in the mouth for them to come through properly. When this happens, the teeth can become impacted, which leads to issues such as pain, swelling, infection, or gum irritation. Over time, this can cause crowding or misalignment. In more severe cases, untreated impacted wisdom teeth may even lead to cysts, jaw stiffness, or long-term discomfort.

The wisdom tooth extraction costs in the UK are higher than standard tooth removal for several important reasons.

Position and Accessibility

Wisdom teeth are positioned at the very back of your mouth. This makes them difficult to reach and see clearly. Your dentist needs specialised instruments and often works at awkward angles. The challenging access adds time and complexity to the procedure.

Impaction Issues

Many wisdom teeth never fully emerge from the gum. They can be:

• Partially impacted: Some of the tooth is visible, but part remains under the gum
• Fully impacted: The entire tooth is buried under gum and bone
• Horizontally impacted: The tooth grows sideways instead of upright

Impacted wisdom teeth require surgical techniques. Your dentist must make incisions in the gum tissue. They often need to remove bone around the tooth. Sometimes they section the tooth into pieces for easier removal. All of this increases the wisdom tooth removal cost in the UK.

Root Structure Complexity

Wisdom tooth roots can be:

• Curved or hooked, making extraction difficult
• Multiple and entangled with the jawbone
• Very close to nerves or sinuses
• Fused to the surrounding bone

This complexity requires careful surgical technique. Your dentist must work slowly and precisely. Therefore, the procedure takes longer. So, naturally, it affects the cost of wisdom tooth extraction.

Higher Risk of Complications

Wisdom tooth removal carries more risks than simple extractions. Those include:

• Greater potential for dry socket
• More post-operative swelling
• Longer healing time
• Risk of nerve damage (though rare)
• Potential sinus complications for upper wisdom teeth

The higher prices are also due to the need for specialist expertise and careful monitoring.

Extended Post-Operative Care

Extraction of a wisdom tooth causes pain and swelling. As a result, you require more thorough aftercare. This includes:

• Detailed post-operative instructions
• Stronger pain medication
• More frequent follow-up appointments
• Extended recovery monitoring

Here's a breakdown of the average costs of wisdom tooth extraction in the United Kingdom by complexity:

Why Do You Need a Tooth Removed?

• Severe tooth decay: This happens when a cavity is too large to fill or restore. The tooth structure is too damaged to support a crown or filling.
• Advanced gum disease: Periodontal disease can loosen teeth by destroying the supporting bone and tissue. Once teeth become mobile, extraction is often the only option.
• Dental infection: Abscesses that don't respond to root canal treatment or antibiotics. Persistent infections can spread to other areas if left untreated.
• Overcrowding: Sometimes teeth need removal to make space for orthodontic treatment. This creates room for proper alignment.
• Broken or damaged teeth: Trauma from accidents or sports injuries can fracture teeth beyond repair. If the break extends below the gumline, extraction becomes necessary.
• Impacted wisdom teeth: Often become trapped beneath the gum or push against neighbouring teeth.
• Preparation for dentures: Multiple tooth removal may be required before fitting full or partial dentures.

Most tooth extractions are straightforward procedures. Your dentist numbs the area with a local anaesthetic. Then they gently remove the tooth using specialised instruments. The whole process typically takes 20–40 minutes for simple cases.

What Affects the Cost of Tooth Removal?

Type of Extraction Required

• Simple extractions are the most affordable. The tooth is visible above the gumline. Your dentist can remove it with basic instruments. This is the quickest and easiest type. The tooth removal cost for simple cases ranges from £95 to £250 privately.
• Surgical extractions cost more. The tooth might be broken below the gum line. Or it has not fully broken yet. Your dentist needs to make incisions or remove bone. Therefore, it takes more time and expertise. Surgical tooth extraction costs UK patients between £200 and £600.
• Wisdom tooth removal often falls into the surgical category. These teeth are at the back of your mouth. They're harder to reach, so, consequently, they require specialist skills. The wisdom tooth extraction costs in the UK range from £150 to £600.

Complexity of Your Case

Some extractions are more complicated than others. The overall complexity depends on how deeply the tooth is rooted, its position, and whether there’s an existing infection or bone loss. Teeth that are decayed, fractured, or impacted often require additional surgical steps. This can also mean longer procedure times and higher costs, especially if specialist tools or techniques are needed.

• Straightforward cases cost less. The tooth is healthy but needs removal. It comes out easily with minimal trauma. These cases are the least expensive for a tooth removal in the UK. 
• Complex cases increase the price. This may include cases when a surgical removal is needed.

Your Location in the UK

• London and the South East have the highest prices. This reflects higher rent, staff costs, and general expenses. You might pay 30–50% more than in other regions.
• The Midlands and the North offer more moderate prices. Cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds have competitive rates. You'll find quality care at a better value.
• Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland often have the most affordable private costs. Rural areas typically cost even less than cities.

The North offers some of the most affordable private dental care. Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle all have competitive pricing.

Simple extractions often cost £95 to £130. Surgical extractions range from £200 to £400. You can find excellent wisdom tooth extraction for £180 to £450.

Here's a regional comparison:

Anaesthesia and Sedation Options

The type of pain management you choose affects the cost of private tooth extraction in the UK. Your comfort level plays a major role in determining the anaesthetic or sedation method. Some patients are perfectly comfortable with local anaesthesia, while others prefer sedation or even general anaesthesia. The choice not only affects the price but also your overall experience and recovery time.

• Local anaesthetic is included in most standard prices. It numbs just the treatment area. This is suitable for most simple extractions.
• Sedation adds to the cost. The price of tooth extraction under sedation in the UK typically adds £200–£400 to your bill. Sedation helps anxious patients relax during the procedure.
• General anaesthesia is the most expensive option. You're completely asleep during the procedure. The cost of tooth extraction under general anaesthetic in the UK ranges from £500 to £1,500+.

NHS vs Private Treatment

Your choice between NHS and private dental care can make a big difference in how much you pay for a tooth extraction in the UK.

• NHS treatment costs are fixed at £73.50 (Band 2), which covers the entire procedure regardless of complexity. It’s the most affordable option, but access can be a challenge. Many NHS practices have long waiting lists, and appointments may take weeks or even months to secure.
• Private treatment costs more, but you get faster appointments and better quality. You also have more control over sedation options and scheduling. The private tooth extraction cost in the UK goes from £95 to £600, depending on complexity.

NHS wisdom tooth removal is only available when your dentist considers it clinically necessary. For instance, if the tooth is causing pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth. The NHS won’t remove wisdom teeth that aren’t causing symptoms or immediate issues.

On the other hand, private clinics can take a more proactive approach. They may recommend early or preventive removal if your teeth are likely to cause future problems such as crowding, infection, or gum irritation. By acting early, patients often avoid severe pain or more complex extractions later on.

What are the Benefits of Choosing a Private Tooth Extraction?

Despite NHS treatment being more affordable, private care offers several advantages. And many patients find the extra cost worth it for the comfort, flexibility, and peace of mind it provides.

Let’s talk about the advantages of private tooth removal:

Faster Access to Treatment

Waiting times for the NHS can be long, often weeks or even months. In some areas, even urgent cases can face several days of delay. For anyone in pain, that’s a torturous wait.

Private dentists often have appointments within days. Many offer same-week slots for urgent cases. Some even provide same-day emergency appointments. This rapid access alone justifies the higher cost of private tooth extraction in the UK for many patients.

More Comfortable Experience

Better pain management: Private dentists offer comprehensive sedation options. You can choose oral sedation, inhalation sedation, or IV sedation, which aren't always available through the NHS.

Modern techniques: Private clinics invest in the latest equipment. Digital X-rays provide better imaging with less radiation. Advanced surgical instruments make procedures quicker and less traumatic.

Comfortable environment: Private dental surgeries typically offer a more relaxing atmosphere. Comfortable waiting rooms, calming music, and attentive staff all reduce anxiety.

Better Aftercare

Clear post-operative guides: You’ll receive both written and verbal instructions created for your procedure, so you’ll know exactly how to care for your mouth and what to expect during healing.

Direct contact access: Most private dentists give you a direct phone number. If concerns arise, you can speak to someone immediately. You're not navigating a complex phone system.

Follow-up appointments: Usually, private clinics include follow-up visits. They check how you’re healing and address any issues quickly.

Emergency support: If complications occur outside office hours, private dentists often provide emergency contact details. And this peace of mind is invaluable.

Flexibility and Choice

Convenient scheduling: You can book appointments that fit your lifestyle. Many private clinics offer early morning, evening, and weekend slots.

Personalized treatment options: You have a greater say in how your procedure is done. Whether you prefer a specific sedation method or want to discuss alternative extraction techniques, your dentist can adapt the treatment to your comfort level.

Freedom to choose your dentist: You’re not limited to your local NHS practice. You can choose any dentist in the UK that best suits your needs. 

Long-Term Relationship

Consistent, familiar care: You’ll see the same dentist each time. That familiarity helps create a calmer, more confident experience.

Focus on prevention: Private dentists take a proactive approach and try to prevent dental problems before they start. Regular check-ups, detailed cleanings, and useful advice can save you from painful or costly treatments in the future.

Better communication: Over time, your dentist will understand your concerns and adapt their approach accordingly, making every visit more personal and less stressful.

Why Choose Zental for Your Tooth Extraction

Zental is your modern dental clinic that offers professional tooth extraction services. Our staff combines expertise with compassionate care. We focus on making your experience as comfortable as possible.

Every Zental tooth extraction includes:

1. Thorough consultation: Deep examination and discussion of your options
2. Digital X-rays: Advanced imaging for precise diagnosis
3. Clear prices: Detailed written quotes with no hidden costs
4. Premium anaesthetic: High-quality pain management for maximum comfort
5. Gentle extraction technique: Modern methods minimise trauma
6. Post-operative kit: Gauze, instructions, and everything you need
7. Follow-up support: Direct access to our team during recovery
8. Emergency line: Contact number for any concerns

Ready to address your tooth problem? Book a consultation at Zental today.

There's no pressure to proceed immediately. Take time to consider your options. Our friendly team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health.

FAQ

1. Can I use dental insurance to cover tooth extraction costs in the UK?

Yes. Many private dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of tooth extraction, especially if it’s medically necessary. However, cosmetic or elective extractions may not be fully covered. Always check your policy before treatment.

2. Are there payment plans available for private tooth extractions?

Most private dental clinics offer 0% finance or monthly payment plans to spread the cost of treatment. This can make complex or multiple extractions more affordable.

3. How long does it take to recover after a tooth extraction?

Recovery typically takes a few days for simple extractions and up to two weeks for surgical or wisdom tooth removals. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions helps prevent complications like dry socket.

4. Can I go back to work after having a tooth removed?

Yes, for most simple extractions, you can return to work the next day. However, for surgical or wisdom tooth extractions, you may need 2–3 days of rest before resuming normal activities.

5. Do private dentists charge for consultation before extraction?

Some clinics include the consultation in the treatment price, while others charge a separate fee (often redeemable against the procedure). It’s best to confirm this when booking your appointment.