Did you know that tooth extraction is the most common surgical procedure in the United States?
While it’s never good news to hear that your tooth can’t be saved – extraction isn’t the end of the world. And, this safe and straightforward procedure can be performed in two different ways based on your individual needs.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the primary types of teeth extractions – simple, and surgical. We’ll help you understand the differences between the two, and help you decide which is your best dental solution.
Read on for all the details!
Simple Tooth Extraction
Also referred to as general extraction or tooth pulling, this procedure is performed on teeth that are visible and above the gum line.
Your dentist will first apply anesthesia and test to ensure that your mouth has been properly numbed. Then, a dental tool known as an elevator will be used to loosen the tooth. Finally, forceps will be used to pull or extract the tooth.
Most general dentists can extract teeth in their office without referring you to a surgeon.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
The more complicated of the two procedures, surgical extraction is typically performed on a tooth that has broken off at the gum or is not yet visible. For example, surgical extraction will likely be used for a wisdom tooth that has not yet emerged.
Your dentist will apply anesthesia, typically using mild sedation to help you remain comfortable throughout the procedure in addition to a topical anesthetic. Then, a small incision will be made into the gum.
Loosening and extraction are performed similarly to a simple extraction when possible. However, in some cases, some of the bone from around the tooth might need to be removed, as well.
Surgical teeth pulling is performed by an oral surgeon rather than a general dentist. Follow this link to find maxillofacial surgeons near me.
Post-op Extraction Information
Depending on the type of extraction your dentist performs, you may need to take special care of your teeth for a few days afterward.
Surgical extraction often involves stitches or sutures, which will later need to be removed professionally. Your dentist will likely suggest a soft or liquid diet and prescribe a course of mild anti-inflammatories.
You’ll need to rinse your mouth with a saline solution as prescribed by your dentist and avoid habits like smoking until you are fully healed.
Understanding Teeth Extractions
Now that you know a bit more about the different types of teeth extractions, you’re ready to speak with a dentist about your specific needs.
Keep in mind that the number one determining factor for which kind of extraction you’ll have performed is whether or not your tooth is visible above the gum line. But, in some cases, surgery could be required to extract a tooth that is emerged and unbroken. For example, if an infection is present.
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