What is the Difference Between Simple & Surgical Extraction?
Dental extractions are performed for a number of reasons and are typically an easy procedure. One of the most commonly extracted teeth are the wisdom teeth! Most patients do not have the space in their mouth to allow for the wisdom teeth to fully erupt properly. This can leave the wisdom teeth impacted below the gum line, often within the jaw bone, allowing them to push against the neighboring tooth. Many adolescent patients have their wisdom teeth extracted in anticipation of orthodontic treatment, ensuring enough space for the orthodontist to rotate and shift the teeth into alignment.
Teeth may also require extraction due to extensive decay, gum, disease, overcrowding, or trauma to the tooth. Extractions are reserved for teeth that are deemed hopeless, meaning they cannot be restored by any other means. A tooth extraction can be classified as simple or surgical, depending on the location of the tooth and the complexity of the extraction.
Simple Extraction vs Surgical Extraction
A simple extraction is used for teeth that have fully erupted through the gum tissue and are in good enough shape that they can be easily loosened and lifted out of the socket. A simple extraction is often used on teeth that have damage or decay, or are causing overcrowding.
A surgical extraction is used on teeth that are not erupted through the gum tissue or on those that have broken at the gum line. A surgical extraction simply means that an incision is required in order to access the entire tooth. Both extraction procedures are performed under anesthesia, most often a local, but sometimes a surgical extraction necessitates general anesthesia.
Healing After Extraction
Depending on the complexity of your extraction, healing time runs between three and four weeks though recovery after a surgical extraction may take a little longer since sutures are typically involved. Immediately following your extraction, it is normal to experience a small amount of discomfort, including bleeding and/or swelling. Any adverse effects should subside within a few days. Most patients are able to manage pain with over-the-counter pain medication but if you experience severe pain or pain that lasts longer than three or four days, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible to make sure that you are not developing an infection.
It is important to follow postoperative directions closely to reduce risk of complications or infection. You will need to adhere to a soft foods diet and avoid using straws or smoking cigarettes. The sucking action of using a straw or smoking can cause the blood clot covering your extraction site to become dislodged, leading to dry socket, exposing the bone and nerves to air and anything you eat or drink. This can be a very painful problem and there is no treatment, only pain management.
Your doctor will determine if you require a simple or surgical extraction. If you wish to restore the area with a dental bridge or implant, make sure to discuss that with your dentist before your extraction. Sometimes, a dental implant can be placed at the same time as the extraction, saving you time and money!