What is the Difference Between Simple and Surgical Extraction?
While saving your natural teeth is always a priority, there are times when a tooth must be extracted. A tooth extraction could be necessary if a tooth is extremely damaged or decayed and can no longer support a dental restoration like a crown or filling.
Common and frequent reasons for a tooth extraction include trauma, decay, crowding, gum disease, and impacted wisdom teeth. Based on the overall condition of your teeth, you can have a simple or surgical extraction.
The Difference between Simple and Surgical Teeth Extractions
When you see your dentist for a tooth extraction, they will examine your tooth to determine how it should be extracted. Common differences between simple and surgical extractions include:
Procedure- A simple extraction is a quite common procedure of removing a tooth. A simple extraction is usually used to remove a tooth that is visible above the gum line. The dentist will use an elevator and forceps to loosen and remove it from the socket. Simple extractions are often used to remove teeth that are decayed, damaged, or overcrowded.
A surgical extraction is a more involved procedure of removing a tooth below the gum line. Since the tooth cannot be accessed above the gum line, the dentist will make an incision through the gum tissue and sometimes even remove minimal bone tissue to access the tooth. The tooth may need to be broken into pieces for easy removal.
Type of anesthesia- Since tooth extraction can be painful, the soft tissue will be numbed to prevent discomfort during the procedure. Simple extractions are quick and straightforward, so they are performed with local anesthesia, your dentist injects a numbing agent into the gums immediately around the tooth that requires extraction.
With a surgical extraction, the dentist can either use a local anesthesia or general anesthesia, based on the complexity of the procedure. General anesthesia may be added to help you relax, feel no discomfort, and put you to sleep. You will not have any idea of what happened during the procedure.
Recovery- A simple extraction is less invasive, so you will only experience minor side effects like some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort after the procedure. By following your aftercare instructions, these side effects disappear in a few days.
With surgical extraction, the recovery is usually longer since the procedure requires an incision through the gums. You may experience discomfort or swelling around the extraction area for a few days. Following your dentist’s post-extraction instructions will enhance a speedy recovery and lower the risk of complications.
Risk and complications- Due to the complex nature of surgical extraction it carries a higher risk of complications such as infections, pain, damage to adjacent teeth and tissues, longer inflammation, and excessive bleeding. Simple extractions have fewer risks, like dry mouth and severe pain.
Cost- The extraction cost will depend on the complexity of the procedure. Usually, a surgical extraction costs more than a simple extraction. You can inquire with your dentist to determine how much your extraction may cost.
Which Extraction is Right for You?
Your dentist will examine your tooth to determine the best procedure to remove it. Usually, if the tooth is visible and accessible above your gum line, a simple extraction is the best option. If the tooth is impacted or broken under the gum line, a surgical extraction might be necessary.