Under normal circumstances, your dentist will do everything possible to save your natural teeth. But sometimes, teeth extractions are the best option to address a problem and protect the rest of your mouth. Most people have at least a few teeth extracted during their lifetime, starting with their wisdom teeth, but this process is still frightening and often poorly understood. When you go to BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK, to have a tooth removed, you can expect the following to happen.

First, your dentist will discuss the procedure with you and make sure you're comfortable. Then, local anesthesia will be applied to prevent the procedure from causing you pain. If you suffer from dental anxiety or if your dentist determines you need it, you may also be administered a sedative.

Once you're prepared for the teeth extraction procedure, your dentist will isolate the tooth. If it is impacted, it may need to be further exposed from under gum tissue and bone before it can be removed. The tooth may be cut into smaller pieces or left whole. Finally, your dentist will remove the tooth, checking to ensure the roots are fully removed.

After teeth extractions, it's best to choose a replacement option such as an implant to occupy the open space in your mouth. Not only does an implant prevent your other teeth from shifting and tilting into the gap, but it also preserves the gum and bone tissue, which would ordinarily deteriorate without stimulation from the tooth. Other replacement options include dental bridges or, if you're missing multiple teeth, full or partial dentures.

Teeth extractions have a bad reputation, but modern dentistry has made this procedure safe and relatively comfortable. If you think you may need a tooth removed, make an appointment today. You can reach BridgeView Dental Group at (907) 486-3257 or online.