Tooth Extraction

Decades ago, tooth extraction was often the “go-to” solution for dentists whose patients had a toothache or tooth decay. We’re lucky to live in a day and age when tooth extraction is not the only solution in such circumstances, and is often considered to be a last resort. Depending on the nature of the problem, dentists have a wide array of tools and treatments available, including deep cleanings, root canals, and fillings, all which can prevent the need to extract a tooth.

However, there are still circumstances in which extracting a tooth is still the preferred or necessary method of treatment. If you are suffering from a dental issue, and extraction happens to the safest, healthiest solution, our Anchorage dentist, Dr. Ben Massey is very experienced with this procedure, and will make it as painless as possible for you.

We Offer Tooth Extractions in Anchorage


We understand that saving a tooth is preferable to having missing teeth, but in some situations, an extraction truly is the best treatment. We also understand that the idea of having a tooth removed can be very stressful for our patients. But you don’t need to experience severe pain simply to have a tooth removed.

If our dentists determine that removal is the correct option to solve your dental issue, whatever it may be, we’ll do everything possible to ensure that you don’t experience pain during the procedure. We also offer IV Sedation to help those who may have anxiety or fear with this type of procedure.

We have a wide array of different comfort options to keep you relaxed and comfortable during your visit. We can also discuss tooth replacement options with you prior to performing the procedure. In fact, in some cases, we can even replace the missing tooth the same day that we perform the extraction.

We use innovative, cutting-edge methods when we perform extractions, which allow our patients to experience a nearly painless recovery, and minimal swelling. As a matter of fact, many of our patients have claimed that an extraction at Anchorage Dental Group was the most comfortable dental procedure they’ve ever experienced.

If you believe that your dental issue might require a tooth extraction, contact us today. We’ll be happy to set up an appointment so that our dentists can examine your teeth and determine the best treatment plan for you.

What Dental Problems Lead to a Tooth Extraction?

There are many different dental issues that lead to the need for an extraction. Here are just a few:

  • Crowded teeth: Generally speaking, our mouths can accommodate all of our adult teeth–but this isn’t always the case. For some patients, there is simply not enough room in their mouths for their teeth to be properly aligned. When this happens, an extraction may be necessary prior to the patient receiving orthodontic treatment.
  • Trauma: Teeth that are badly damaged, either due to blunt trauma or decay, may be unable to heal. If that’s the case, the healthiest option is usually extraction, to prevent future injury or infections.
  • Infection: Infection itself can be a reason to extract a tooth. When an infection reaches the center of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are, it can spread and become extremely painful…and dangerous. In some cases, antibiotics and/or root canal therapy can cure an infection, but if it is too advanced or these methods fail, extraction is a treatment option.

Average Cost of Tooth Extractions

The cost of any individual tooth extraction can vary depending on the method necessary to safely extract the tooth. There are two main types of tooth extraction methods: surgical and non-surgical.

Surgical extractions are more expensive, and can range from $400 to $500.

If the patient has dental insurance, the cost of the extraction is usually covered, as extractions are generally only performed when they are considered 100% medically necessary. Those with Medicaid can also benefit from emergent tooth extractions. Be sure to talk with our dentist, Dr. Ben Massey to see if your situation qualifies for an extraction.

What About Wisdom Teeth Extractions?

For those who are looking to get wisdom teeth extractions, Anchorage Dental Group can help. Doctor Massey has performed thousands of extractions over his 30+ years of dental care. Generally, we prefer not to remove teeth unless if it is absolutely necessary. Issues such as teeth that are causing pain, tooth that is infected or is harming any healthy teeth nearby. Most of these issues can be seen by taking a panoramic x-ray. This will allow us to see the tooth’s position and stage of development.

Wisdom teeth usually come in late in the teenage years and tend to overcrowd the other healthy teeth. This is why it is a fairly common practice to remove wisdom teeth before they become a problem or before they start to crowd the mouth and cause additional issues. These issues include:

  • Tooth crowding due to these additional teeth
  • Pressure against healthy neighboring teeth
  • Swelling and pain from wisdom teeth
  • Jawbone issues because of the additional teeth
  • Impacted wisdom teeth
  • Cysts caused by wisdom teeth

Less common issues but can be associated with having your wisdom teeth:

  • Cavities due to difficulty cleaning the back teeth.
  • Higher chance of tooth decay and infection around these teeth.

For those who opt to have their wisdom teeth removed, this is a one day procedure with a couple of week recovery period. We offer IV Sedation, so our patients feel no pain during this procedure.

Do you have a question about tooth extractions? Give us a call today!

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

The leader and preferred provider of quality dental services in Anchorage and the surrounding areas.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

The leader and preferred provider of quality dental services in Anchorage and the surrounding areas.
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