There are many reasons why people may need to have a tooth extraction. If a tooth is causing pain, or if the dentist believes that it will cause problems down the line, they could recommend having the tooth extracted. There are two kinds of tooth extraction: simple and surgical. What is the difference between the two?
The Two Types Of Tooth Extraction Procedures
Depending on the situation, there are two general types of tooth extractions that can be used to remove teeth.
Simple Tooth Extraction
The word “simple” doesn’t connote that the process for this type of tooth extraction can be done by just anyone. The word describes the anatomy of the tooth involved. A simple tooth extraction involves a tooth that does not have a complex nerve and root structure. A general dentist will be able to extract the tooth without needing to do anything to its surrounding area.
A simple tooth extraction will still involve a local anesthetic to dull the pain as the tooth is being removed. Then, the general dentist will be able to pull the tooth out. This is an out-patient procedure that will only take around ten to 30 minutes at the most. After the patient recovers, they will be allowed to go home. However, because of the anesthesia, the patient will not be permitted to drive.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
On the other hand, a surgical tooth extraction will require the skills of an oral surgeon. These surgeons specialize in surgical procedures of the mouth and face. Among the most routine procedures they perform are surgical tooth extractions.
Surgical tooth extractions are performed when a tooth’s roots, nerves, or other surrounding tissues are too complex for a simple tooth extraction. There may also be other problems that make a simple tooth extraction unsuitable. There may be some defects with the underlying bone that will make it difficult for the dentist to maneuver the tooth to remove it safely.
How Do Dentists Know Which Procedure To Use?
Before any type of tooth extraction is performed, dentists will need you to have a dental x-ray done first. The results will determine whether they decide to do a simple or surgical tooth extraction procedure. Dentists will look into the surrounding tissues and underlying bone beneath the affected tooth. A simple tooth extraction will be possible if the dentist decides that there will be no complications with the nerves and bone should they pull the tooth out.
Surgical tooth extractions will be required if the dentist sees anything out of the ordinary in the dental x-ray. However, surgical tooth extractions will not require general anesthesia and will only require a fairly short time for recovery.
Conclusion
If your dentist has recommended that you have a tooth extraction, whether this will be a simple or surgical procedure, and you have hesitations about it, take the time to talk to your dentist about your concerns. They will be glad to answer any questions you may have and put your mind at ease about the procedure.
Dental House MI offers dental services such as tooth extractions, preventive dentistry, restorative dentistry, and other procedures. We offer all the procedures that will give you a healthy smile and good oral health. If you need wisdom teeth removal in Waterford, give us a call! We will be happy to help you with all your dental health needs.