What's The Difference Between A Simple Extraction And A Surgical Extraction?

While saving your natural teeth is always a top priority, there are instances when a tooth must be extracted. For example, tooth extraction may be necessary if a tooth is extremely damaged or decayed and can’t support a dental restoration like a filling or crown.

Common reasons for tooth extractions include trauma, crowding, decay, gum disease, and impacted wisdom teeth. Based on the condition of your teeth, you can undergo a simple or surgical extraction. This article highlights the difference between surgical and simple extractions in Wellesley, MA.

Difference between Simple and Surgical Teeth Extractions

Once you visit your dentist for tooth extraction, they will examine your tooth to determine how it should be extracted. Common differences between simple and surgical extraction include:

1. Procedure

A simple extraction is a common and straightforward procedure of removing a tooth. A simple extraction is often used to remove a tooth that’s visible above the gum line. The dentist uses an elevator and forceps to loosen and remove a tooth from the socket. Simple extractions are commonly used to remove teeth that are decayed, damaged, or overcrowded.

On the other hand, a surgical extraction is a more complex procedure of removing a tooth trapped below the gum line. Since the tooth can’t be accessed above the gum line, the dentist must make an incision through the gum tissue and sometimes remove minimal bone tissue to access the tooth. Then, the tooth may be broken into pieces for easy removal.

2. Type of anesthesia

Since tooth extraction is painful, you’ll be number to prevent any discomfort during the procedure. Since simple extractions are quick and straightforward, they are performed under local anesthesia – the dentist injects numbing agents into the gums around the tooth that requires extraction.

In surgical extraction, the dentist or surgeon can either use local anesthesia or general anesthesia, based on the complexity of the procedure. Unlike local anesthesia, which only numbs the area around the tooth, general anesthesia puts you to sleep. You won’t have an idea of what happened during the procedure.

3. Recovery

Since a simple extraction is less invasive, you can only experience minor side effects like bleeding, swelling, and pain after the procedure. With proper aftercare habits, these side effects fade away in a few days.

With surgical extraction, recovery is typically longer since the procedure requires incisions through the gums and bone. You can experience discomfort or swelling around the extraction area for a few days. Following your dentist’s or surgeon’s post-extraction instructions will ensure a speedy recovery and lower the risk of complications.

4. Risk and complications

Due to the complex nature of surgical extraction (gum and bone incision), it carries a higher risk of complications and risks such as infections, severe pain, nerve damage, damage to adjacent teeth and tissues, longer inflammation, and excessive bleeding. Simple extractions have fewer risks and complications, like dry mouth and severe pain.

5. Cost

The extraction cost primarily depends on the complexity of the procedure. Typically, surgical extraction costs more than simple extractions. You can contact your dentist to learn how much your extraction might cost.

Which Extraction is Right for You?

Your dentist will examine your tooth to determine the best procedure to extract it. Generally, if your tooth is visible and accessible above the gum line, a simple extraction may be the best option. On the other hand, if your tooth is impacted or broken under the gum line, a surgical extraction may be necessary.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips

Whether your tooth was extracted through a simple or surgical extraction, use the tips below to care for your mouth and ensure speedy healing and recovery:

• Get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activities as they can cause increased pressure in the extraction area, leading to more pain, swelling, and bleeding.
• Keep your head elevated when sleeping.
• Avoid rinsing. Use saltwater rinses to rinse your mouth after 24 hours. Avoid alcohol-based oral products.
• Avoid spitting or rinsing too vigorously.
• Do not suck or drink through a straw.
• Avoid vigorous nose blowing or sneezing.
• Eat a soft food diet until you feel better.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol use.
• Notify your dentist if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms.

Visit Our Office for Simple Tooth Extraction in Wellesley, MA.

Contact Wellesley Dental Arts for more information about dental extraction and aftercare.