Your dentist will prioritize preserving your smile for as long as possible. But sometimes, dental problems may develop that do not respond to conservative treatments. Before they impact the rest of your smile, your dentist may suggest removing the damaged tooth with an extraction.
The process is easier and less invasive than many people guess. The procedure may vary depending on whether you need a simple or a complex extraction.
Your dentist will evaluate your condition to determine the right treatment for your unique smile during a consultation. In the meantime, you can read on to explore the similarities and differences between these two types of tooth extraction procedures.
When Will I Need a Simple Tooth Extraction?
A simple tooth extraction refers to the removal of a tooth that is visible above the gumline. Your dentist might suggest this treatment for teeth that sustain damage due to gum disease or tooth decay. They can also remove a tooth due to overcrowding within the mouth.
The dentist begins the process by using a local anesthetic to numb the area. This ensures that you do not feel any discomfort during the treatment.
Then the dentist will use tools to gently move and lift the tooth to loosen it from surrounding tissue until it pulls free. Special forceps ensure careful and controlled motions to complete this removal with minimal force. The dentist finishes the treatment by rinsing and cleaning the socket of the tooth and giving you gauze.
When Will I Need a Complex Dental Extraction?
A dentist will use a surgical tooth extraction to remove a tooth that is below the gumline. This may be needed if a tooth suffers so much damage that not enough of the tooth is visible above the gums. The dentist will also suggest a complex extraction for impacted wisdom teeth.
They will use a local anesthetic to numb the mouth, but the dentist will also employ dental sedation to ensure the patient remains calm throughout the process. Sometimes you might need to complete this type of treatment at a specialist’s practice.
Then the dentist makes an incision into the gum tissue to carefully cut the tooth out of the mouth. The dentist has the skills and tools on hand to make this process as swift and as minimally invasive as possible.
Because the process involves a stronger sedative than a simple extraction, you will need to arrange a ride home from the dentist’s office after this oral surgery. You can expect to feel some grogginess for the rest of the day.
Tips for Tooth Extraction Patients
Both the simple and the complex tooth extraction will require time for the sockets to heal. Follow your dentist’s guidelines to minimize soreness or swelling after this treatment. These tips will also ensure you do not develop issues like dry socket during this recovery.
In the case of overcrowding or wisdom teeth removal, you do not have to worry about tooth replacement. But in other instances, you should talk to your dentist about replacing missing teeth. This way, you can restore structure, aesthetics, and health to your smile.
