What is the Difference Between Simple and Surgical Extraction?
Saving your natural teeth is always a priority in the dental industry, but there are still situations when a tooth must be extracted. Tooth extraction might be necessary if a tooth is damaged or decayed and can no longer successfully support a restoration like a crown or filling.
Common causes for tooth extraction include decay, accident-like trauma, crowding, gum disease, and impacted wisdom teeth. Based on the position of the tooth in your mouth and condition of the tooth, you will have either a simple or surgical extraction.
The Difference between Simple and Surgical Teeth Extractions
If your dentist has determined you need a tooth extraction, they will then examine the tooth to determine the method of extraction. The common differences between simple and surgical extractions are:
- Procedure- A simple extraction is an ordinary procedure of removing a tooth. A simple extraction is when a tooth is removed that is visible above the gum line. The dentist uses two special dental tools, an elevator, and forceps, to loosen and remove it from the socket.
Surgical extraction is a more complex procedure of removing a tooth that is below the gum line. The dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue and sometimes even remove a small amount of bone to access the tooth. The tooth could need to be broken into pieces for easier removal.
- Type of anesthesia- A tooth extraction can be uncomfortable, so the immediate soft tissue will be numbed to prevent any discomfort during the procedure. Simple extractions are straightforward, so they are most often performed with local anesthesia, when your dental team injects a numbing agent into the gums immediately around the tooth.
With surgical extraction, the dentist could use a local anesthesia or general anesthesia, based on the possible complexity of the procedure. General anesthesia might be added to help you relax, feel no discomfort, and even put you to sleep. You will not have any detailed recall of the procedure.
- Recovery- A simple extraction is quick and less invasive, so therefore you will experience just minor side effects like some bleeding, swelling, and a little discomfort. By following your aftercare instructions, these side effects will vanish in a few days.
With surgical extraction, the recovery will be a bit longer since the procedure requires an incision and sutures. You could experience some discomfort or swelling around the extraction site for a few days. Following your post-extraction instructions will promote your speedy recovery.
- Risk and complications- Due to the nature of a surgical extraction it will carry a higher risk of complications such as infections, pain, damage to adjacent teeth and tissues, inflammation, and bleeding. Simple extractions have fewer risks, like dry mouth and pain.
- Cost- The cost of your tooth extraction will depend on the complexity of the procedure. A surgical extraction will cost more than a simple extraction. Ask your dental office to determine how much your extraction might cost.
Which Extraction is Right for You?
Your dentist will examine your tooth and determine which procedure is best to remove it. If the tooth is visible and accessible above your gum line, a simple extraction will be the natural choice. If the tooth is either impacted or broken under the gum line, a surgical extraction will be necessary.