Tooth Extraction in Eagle River
At Alpine Family Dentistry, we try to save your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are times when your natural tooth may be unrestorable. If we can’t give your tooth any reasonable life expectancy, or if the cost of saving the tooth outweighs the benefits, Dr. Brett Kocherhans may recommend a tooth extraction.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
There are a variety of situations where tooth extraction may be recommended. A few examples include:
- Trauma to the tooth that can’t be repaired
- Advanced periodontal disease that has affected the tooth
- Overcrowding
- Severe decay or damage
Whether you have one of the above issues or another dental problem, Dr. Brett will thoroughly evaluate your tooth before recommending an extraction.
The Tooth Extraction Process
If you're considering tooth extraction, Dr. Brett will discuss the procedure with you beforehand to make sure you are comfortable.
Whether you are having a simple extraction or a surgical extraction, you will be numbed for your comfort. We will do everything possible in our office to make you feel safe and supported during the procedure. For patients who feel anxious about the procedure, we offer nitrous oxide in our dental office to make the experience easier.
If you are nervous about having your tooth removed, please let Dr. Brett and your dental team know so that we can address your concerns and help ease your discomfort or anxieties.
Tooth extraction is usually easy and fast, and you will leave our office without a tooth that was likely causing you pain or harming your oral health.
After the Extraction Procedure
Once the procedure is done, you will be sent home with instructions on caring for the affected area of your gums. Recovery is generally a quick and smooth process, but if you have any questions, feel free to contact our dental office for assistance.
Dr. Brett will explain your tooth replacement options, and he may recommend a specific tooth replacement option based on your dental needs. Common tooth replacements after a tooth extraction include a dental bridge, dentures, or dental implants.
In most cases, it is important to pursue some form of tooth replacement after tooth extraction. Your mouth and jaw are designed to work with a full set of teeth. Missing teeth can affect your bite and your ability to chew food. Gaps in your smile can also cause your remaining teeth to shift, leading to bite misalignment.
If you leave missing teeth without replacement for too long, you can even lose bone mass in your jaw, making tooth replacement harder when you decide to pursue a tooth replacement option.
Tooth Extraction in Eagle River, AK
If you need a tooth removed, Dr. Brett is here to help you. Dr. Brett and his dental team are empathetic and understanding, and they can make you comfortable for the procedure in our welcoming, log cabin dental office. We make your visit as pleasant as possible.
We want you to feel at home at Alpine Family Dentistry, and we want to help you with all your dental needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Most often, tooth extractions are performed by dentists when there is nothing other procedures like fillings or a root canal can do to save the tooth. Generally, it is preferable to save the tooth and the root if it is at all possible, but there comes the point where trying to keep the infected tooth in will do much more harm than good. Your dentist will only consider tooth extraction as a last option for the total health of your mouth.
You may also need extraction for other reasons, like for dental posts and to make room for major dental reconstruction, as well as emergency surgery on the jaw.
Dangers of Avoiding Tooth Extraction
Losing a tooth sounds like a big deal, and it can be scary, but thanks to modern advances in dentistry, not only is the extraction process more comfortable than ever, there are options for helping you recover your smile.
If your tooth is infected and sufficiently damaged, it will fall out on its own eventually anyway, but that's no reason to leave it in. The bacteria can spread and cause irreversible damage to your gums and jaw bone. Not to mention that until the nerve in the tooth dies, it is likely to cause debilitating pain.
Looking for an Eagle River AK Tooth Extraction Specialist?
Alpine Family Dentistry is proud to service Eagle River AK and its neighbors with reliable expert dentistry. If you need a tooth extraction or just a check-up, contact us to brighten your smile.
The time it takes to recover from a tooth extraction will differ with each patient, depending on the complexity of their treatment and how well they take care of themselves afterward. Typically, most patients start feeling normal again after three to seven days.
It's common to have some tenderness in your extraction site for a few days after your surgery. If you're experiencing bleeding at the site that you can't stop, it's important to contact our team right away for an appointment with Dr. Brett.
Enjoy Soft Foods After Oral Surgery
Sticking to eating soft foods at room temperature for the first few days after your surgery will also help your healing process. Here are some ideas to allow your extraction site to heal.
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Soup
- Smoothies or shakes
- Oatmeal
Avoid spicy foods that could irritate your extraction site.
It is also important to avoid actions like drinking through a straw or smoking cigarettes for at least 72 hours after your tooth extraction in Eagle River so your blood clot can stay in place for optimal healing.
Oral Surgery in Eagle River
If you have questions or concerns throughout your recovery process, don't hesitate to contact your Alpine Family Dentistry team today at (907) 694-2409 for answers or guidance.
Preparing for a tooth extraction can make your experience smoother and more comfortable. Whether it's a wisdom tooth removal or a damaged tooth that needs to be removed, a little preparation goes a long way.
Start by adhering to any specific instructions provided by your dentist. If you are scheduled for sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll likely be advised to refrain from eating or drinking for at least 6–8 hours prior to the procedure. Also, if you’re going to be sedated, make sure to arrange for transportation, as you will not be able to drive yourself home.
It’s also wise to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and to avoid makeup, heavy lotions, or lip balm on the day of your appointment. These can hinder your provider’s ability to keep the area clean.
Additionally, make sure to inform your dentist about any medications you take or health conditions you have. This includes over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and recent illnesses. Some patients may need to take antibiotics beforehand, particularly if they’re at risk for infection.
Finally, stock your home with soft foods, ice packs, and any prescribed medications so that you can rest without worry after the procedure.
Painless, Stress-Free Tooth Extractions in Eagle River, AK
If you're looking for a dentist in Eagle River 99577 to help you fully prepare for your dental extraction, ensure a smooth and pain-free procedure, and expertly guide you through aftercare, contact Dr. Brett Kocherhans and the excellent Alpine Family Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Brett Kocherhans
Dentist
I graduated in the inaugural class of the University of Utah School of Dentistry after earning a Bachelor’s degree summa cum laude from Utah Valley University. I chose a career in dentistry because it’s an exciting blend of science and art, and I love seeing and getting to know my patients in beautiful Eagle River, AK.
My wife, Amie, was born and raised here in Alaska. We live in Eagle River with our three children, Claire, Parker, and Tanner. For us, Alaska is home. I love the fresh air, the neighborly ...
Featured Blog Posts - Tooth Extraction
What to Know about the Tooth Extraction Procedure
Our dental team always approaches dental care with the least invasive treatment in mind. A tooth extraction is the last resort to protect a person’s oral health from spreading infection, disease, and additional tooth loss. At Alpine Family Dentistry, we use leading-edge technology and methods for dental care services, such as tooth extractions, so they’re as painless as possible.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction
A patient might need a tooth extraction for the following reasons:
- Impacted tooth
- Wisdom tooth
- Trauma
- Disease
- Overcrowding in the mouth
Overcrowding and wisdom teeth don’t need replacements after the extraction procedure. However, ...