Teeth age and can deteriorate or break even with proper dental care. Many damaged teeth can be fixed with fillings or crowns, but if the damage or decay is severe, the tooth must be extracted. Although a tooth extraction may appear simple, it should only be conducted by a specialist – and in most cases, during a visit to an oral surgeon. You may visit the dentist for a few cavities one year, but the following year you may elect to get cosmetic surgery such as tooth whitening or porcelain veneers.
Understanding the types of tooth extractions—simple and surgical—can help individuals prepare for the procedure and know what to expect. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the differences between simple and surgical extractions and explore the circumstances under which each type is recommended.
What is tooth extraction?
Although retaining your original teeth is the top concern, teeth must be pulled on occasion. Tooth extraction may be required due to trauma, oral illness, crowding, or infections in the mouth. The most common reason is wisdom tooth extraction, which may require more complicated treatments.
Tooth extraction is a dental treatment that removes a single tooth or a group of teeth from their sockets. The dentist will decide whether to do a surgical extraction or a simple extraction. You may be sent to an oral surgeon or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for difficult extractions.
Simple tooth extractions:
Simple extractions are often performed on teeth that are visible and easily accessible. These procedures are relatively straightforward and involve the removal of a tooth that has fully erupted from the gum line. Dentists use specialized instruments, such as elevators and forceps, to grasp and gently rock the tooth back and forth until it can be lifted out of its socket. Simple extractions are commonly performed in cases of:
- Decayed or damaged teeth that can be easily grasped and removed.
- Wisdom teeth that have fully erupted and do not require additional surgical techniques.
Surgical Tooth Extractions:
Surgical extractions are more complex procedures performed on teeth that are not easily accessible or have not fully erupted. This type of extraction may involve an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth extractions in Saskatoon, or it may require removing bone tissue to access the tooth root. Surgical extractions are often necessary for:
- Impacted wisdom teeth that have not fully erupted or are positioned at awkward angles.
- Broken or fractured teeth that cannot be easily grasped for a simple extraction.
- Teeth with long or curved roots that make simple extraction challenging.
- Severely decayed or infected teeth that have extensive damage below the gum line.
Preparation and aftercare:
Before any tooth extractions, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, take X-rays, and discuss the appropriate extraction method based on your specific case. For both simple and surgical extractions, local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the area and minimize discomfort during the procedure.
After the extraction, following your dentist’s post-operative care instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods, and practising good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
Do you need an oral surgeon to remove a tooth?
Call the dental clinic in Saskatoon now if you have any questions regarding extractions or would like to make an appointment with your dentist.
You can alleviate any anxiety you may be feeling by understanding the differences between a simple and a surgical tooth extraction. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and prompt attention to dental issues can reduce the likelihood of requiring extractions. If you have concerns about your oral health or are anticipating a tooth extraction, consult with our dentist at Lakewood Dental to discuss the best approach for your specific situation.