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Did you know that getting a tooth removed can actually be done in 3 different ways? Though a tooth extraction can be scary for some, knowing your options can give you more peace of mind. So in today’s post, we’re going to cover the 3 types of tooth extractions, and give you some helpful tips for recovering.
- Simple Tooth Extractions
A simple tooth extraction is the most straightforward type of extraction. We recommend this type when a tooth is clearly visible in the mouth and is in relatively good condition, with minimal damage or decay.
Before starting, we will numb the area with local anesthesia, ensuring the process is painless. For most people, that’s all it takes for a comfortable procedure. However, if you feel especially nervous, talk to us! We have many options for pain control and anxiety reduction.
Once the tooth is completely numb, we’ll use special tools to loosen the tooth and gently remove it. This type of extraction is generally quick and straightforward. Most patients find recovery easy, with minimal discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Because this procedure is simple, healing tends to be fast, allowing you to return to your normal routine in no time.
- Complex Tooth Extractions
A complex tooth extraction is a bit more advanced than a simple extraction but doesn’t require full surgical intervention. This type of extraction is usually necessary for teeth that are severely decayed, broken, or have unusual root shapes that make removal more challenging. Complex extractions might also be needed if the tooth is fragile and at risk of breaking during the procedure.
Planning Stage
In these cases, we may need to carefully plan the extraction. We might need to break the tooth into smaller sections to remove it safely without causing damage to the surrounding bone or tissue. Complex extractions may involve extra steps like using more advanced tools or providing additional anesthesia.
In this stage, you might just meet with your dentist, have an oral exam, and discuss the next steps.
Surgical VS Non-Surgical
Depending on the difficulty of the case, your dentist might refer you to an oral surgeon. At Dental Specialty Associates of Arizona, we’re proud to have a full team of specialists under one roof, including oral surgeons, so you won’t have to coordinate with an oral surgeon in another office.
Recovery
While recovery from a complex extraction is similar to that of surgical extractions, it may take a bit longer. Follow any aftercare instructions from your dentist closely to prevent complications and ensure smooth healing.
- Surgical Tooth Extractions
Surgical tooth extractions are typically required for teeth that are not easily accessible, such as those broken below the gumline or impacted teeth that are stuck in the jawbone. One of the most common reasons for a surgical extraction is the removal of impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom tooth extractions are necessary when these teeth are unable to fully emerge from the gumline, often leading to pain, infections, or damage to surrounding teeth.
In a surgical extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon may make an incision into the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, bone may need to be removed to reach the tooth. Surgical extractions are performed under local anesthesia, but we frequently recommend sedation dentistry such as nitrous oxide or IV sedation to ensure a completely painless procedure..
Since surgical extractions are more involved than simple or complex extractions, recovery can take longer. It’s important to take it easy, follow any aftercare instructions from your dentist, and keep the extraction site clean to avoid infections.
