Difference between Simple vs. Surgical Tooth Extractions

Even with proper dental hygiene and diet, your natural teeth can wear out, decay, or damage. Fortunately, a dentist will always try to save the teeth with restorative treatments like root canals, fillings, and dental crowns. However, tooth extractions may be the only solution if the damage is too much to repair.

Besides excessive tooth damage, a dentist can recommend tooth extraction if you have an impacted wisdom tooth, severe gum disease, overcrowding, or to pave the way for orthodontic treatments. Get in touch with our dentist for tooth extractions near you.

What is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction or removal is the process of removing a natural tooth from its socket. Before the extraction, the dentist will begin by examining the tooth through physical, visual, and X-ray techniques to determine whether extraction is necessary. The dentist will determine the best way to extract your tooth if you need an extraction.

Generally, there are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. While a general dentist can perform a simple extraction, they will likely refer you to an oral or maxillofacial surgeon if your case is complex.

Difference between Simple and Surgical Extraction

Simple extraction

A simple extraction removes a tooth that’s visible and accessible above the gum line. Since the tooth is easily accessible, the procedure is straightforward and can be performed by a general dentist within a few minutes.

The dentist will always begin by numbing the area around the tooth to prevent pain and anxiety. Next, the dentist uses an elevator to loosen the tooth and a pair of forceps to hold the tooth. The tooth pushes back and forth until it breaks from the socket. After extraction, the dentist will give you gauze to bite on to control the bleeding.

Surgical extraction

If your tooth is too weak to hold with forceps or broken below the gum line, the dentist might recommend surgery. The surgical procedure extracts a tooth that isn’t readily accessible, like an impacted wisdom tooth.

The dentist will administer an anesthetic to prevent pain. Next, the surgeon makes an incision through the gums and bone tissues surrounding the tooth to access the tooth for extraction.

Some tissues may have to be lifted or removed to access the root. The surgeon may break the tooth into pieces for easy removal if necessary. After removal, the dentist will stitch back the area. Bite on a gauze pad to control bleeding.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

While both types of tooth extraction require good dental aftercare, surgical extractions necessitate more extensive care. Fortunately, your dentist or surgeon will give you the aftercare tips to promote faster healing and recovery. These can include:

• Bite gently on the gauze. The pressure aid in clot formation, which stops the bleeding. Leave the gauze for about 20 – 30 minutes, and replace it as needed.
• Take medication as prescribed by the dentist or surgeon to manage pain and swelling. Consult your dentist or visit an emergency dentist near you if the discomfort or side effects worsen or persist beyond normal.
• Use an ace pack to manage pain and swelling.
• Eat a soft diet like yogurt, soup, eggs, avocado, soft vegetables, and mashed potatoes. For the next 72 hours, avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy food items.
• Rest adequately. Avoid strenuous activities like lifting. It can cause increased pressure and dislodge the blood clot causing complications like a dry socket. Keep your head elevated to allow blood flow from the surgical area.
• For the next 24 hours, avoid spitting, sucking, rinsing, or using straw
• Do not touch or disturb the extraction socket with the tongue or finger
• Brush while avoiding the extraction site. Rinse with warm salt water after 12 hours.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Need more information about tooth extractions near Shalimar, FL? Contact Complete Health Dentistry of the Emerald Coast to book your appointment today.