The two types of dental extractions are simple and surgical. A simple dental extraction occurs when the teeth being removed are accessible and visible. A surgical dental extraction, in comparison, is often completed on teeth which are more challenging to access. In many cases, surgical extractions require that the dentist makes an incision into the gums to access the tooth.
A simple dental extraction is a procedure where a visible tooth is removed in the mouth. In many cases, a general dentist will complete the procedure in the dental office with a local anesthetic. The anesthetic is used to numb the extraction site and ensure that the patient does not experience pain.
An elevator and dental forceps are instruments commonly used for a simple extraction. These tools allow the dentist to elevate the tooth and grasp the tooth’s crown with the forceps for removal.
The dentist will move the tooth back and forth until the periodontal ligament breaks. This will loosen the tooth from the alveolar bone and allow it to be removed. In order to extract the tooth, the dental professional will use dental forceps to apply a controlled force on the tooth using steady pressure.
A surgical dental extraction is a procedure used to remove teeth which cannot be easily accessed inside the mouth. The tooth may be impacted or not fully erupted through the gum tissue. The tooth may also be fractured below the gum line, necessitating a surgical extraction.
In these cases, dental professionals will make an incision into the connective tissue around the tooth. This exposes the tooth and makes it accessible for extraction. Surgical dental extractions often require that the tooth is fragmented into several pieces, making it easier to remove.
Given the more complex nature of a surgical dental extraction and the pain associated with the procedure, a general anesthetic is typically used, and an oral surgeon completes the procedure in a dental hospital. A general dentist may be able to perform the procedure in some cases.
While preserving the natural tooth is typically preferred, sometimes a damaged, decayed, or crowded tooth must be extracted. Both types of extractions reduce the risk for complications. Common complications of an extraction can include infection, pain, and inflammation. Other potential complications can include the following:
1. A dry socket or osteitis is caused by the premature loss of the blood clot which develops after an extraction.
2. Patients may experience delayed healing with certain medications. In order to reduce the risk for complications, the dentist may advise that patients temporarily stop certain types of medications prior to an extraction.
3. Osteoradionecrosis or secondary bone death can occur for patients who have had radiation treatment in the head or neck regions.
4. Tooth movement or misalignment following an extraction can negatively impact the patient’s bite or result in damage to the remaining natural teeth.
5. There can also be a loss of vertical dimension of occlusion, or collapse of bite. This can result in changes to the muscles required for chewing and chronically dry lips.
In general, dental professionals prefer simple tooth extractions when possible as it is a simple procedure with fewer complications compared to surgical tooth extractions. In most cases, it is not a choice between the two types of extractions. The dentist will complete a simple extraction if the tooth is accessible. A surgical extraction is completed if necessary for teeth which are not easily accessible. Patients should work with their dentist to determine if they need a simple or surgical extraction.