What's the Difference Between Simple Tooth Extraction and Surgical Tooth Extraction?

We all want to keep our teeth for a lifetime, but circumstances can occur and warrant a tooth extraction. Although tooth extraction is a routine procedure, it is normally done when necessary, after our dentist has assessed the teeth.

When Are Teeth Extracted?

While there are many reasons why your teeth can be removed, the dentist can recommend the procedure in the following situations:

• Overcrowding. When you do not have enough space in the jaw, your teeth can come out overcrowded. The dentist will remove the excess teeth in preparation for orthodontic or teeth alignment treatment.
• Impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come out. Some people may have all the four teeth come out and fit in the mouth properly. However, more often than not, the teeth can come out partially or get impacted because of a lack of space. Impacted wisdom teeth are painful can lead to other dental problems if not addressed on time.
• Dental infection. If you have decay that extends to the pulp, the dentist can perform a root canal therapy. However, in severe cases, our endodontist in Fulshear can extract the tooth to stop the spread of infection and preserve your other teeth.
• Periodontal disease. Severe gum disease can cause weakening of the teeth and prompt an extraction.
• If the baby teeth do not fall out on time, the dentist can remove them to pave way for the permanent ones.

How Are the Teeth Extracted?

There are two main types of extractions that the dentist can perform; simple and surgical. The type of tooth extraction that is done will depend on the nature of the tooth to be removed.

• Simple extractions

Simple or non-surgical tooth extraction is done on a visible tooth. These types of extractions are performed by a general dentist under local anesthesia. Sedation dentistry may also be used on patients who have dental phobia.

The dentist will use forceps to hold the visible part of the tooth. He will move it back and forth until it detaches from the socket.

The recovery from the simple extractions is relatively quick—lasting about four days with proper care.

• Surgical extractions

The surgical teeth removal is done on teeth that are not visible such as impacted wisdom teeth. The procedure involves opening the gums to access the teeth and pull them out. This is usually a complex dental procedure and is done under IV sedation or general anesthesia (deep sedation).

The dentist will make an incision on the gums to access the tooth. The soft tissues covering the teeth may also be lifted to give access.

Sometimes the dentist may have to drill the jaw or split the teeth into multiple pieces to make it easy to remove the teeth.

What to Expect After the Teeth Are Extracted?

Gum bleeding is a common occurrence after the teeth are pulled out. The bleeding can be controlled by biting a gauze pad for 20 minutes.

A blood clot also forms on the socket to facilitate healing. It is crucial to protect the clot and prevent it from breaking. If it breaks, you may experience a dry socket which slows down the healing, causes pain and bad breath.

What to Do After A Tooth Extraction Procedure?

The recovery time after your teeth are removed will depend on how well you care for the gums.

• Use the gauze pad until the bleeding stops
• Take the medication as prescribed by the dentist
• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling
• Rest the gums for 24 hours, meaning do not do any strenuous work.
• Do not use a straw to drink beverages in the first 24 hours
• Elevate your head to prevent pain and support blood flow
• Eat soft foods the day after the procedure
• Rinse the mouth with warm, salty water after 24 hours

You may experience nausea, vomiting, cough, and chills. Call the dentist or visit Smile Bright Dental Studio if these symptoms worsen or you have chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling at the surgical area.