There are times when a tooth extraction procedure may be necessary for a dental patient, and it could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as tooth decay, damage, or overcrowding. For Dr. Christopher Wolberg and his team at Cedarwood Dentistry, a tooth extraction procedure is always performed with the utmost care and consideration for patient comfort.
In this blog post, we will explore the two main types of tooth extraction procedures: simple extractions and surgical extractions. We’ll shed light on the differences between them and provide an overview of the process for each.
Simple Extractions: A Straightforward Approach
A simple extraction means removing a tooth that can be easily accessed and removed with minimal complexity. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to feel pressure but not significant pain. In some cases, patients may choose to be sedated with a minor sedative or nitrous oxide for relaxation. For more complex cases that require heavier sedation, Cedarwood Dentistry may refer patients to oral surgeons.
During a simple extraction, the tooth is numbed, and the gum tissue is gently pushed away from the tooth using instruments. The tooth is then loosened and moved within the socket to make it larger. Finally, special forceps are used to grasp and gently pull the tooth out. In some instances, the tooth may be wiggled or cut into smaller pieces to facilitate removal.
Surgical Extractions: Complex Cases and Impacted Teeth
Surgical extractions are performed when the tooth is more complex to remove due to factors such as extensive decay, significant damage, or being fully impacted. Impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth, are fully encased in bone and positioned below the gum line. Surgical extraction involves a more intricate procedure to access and remove the tooth.
During a surgical extraction, the gum tissue is cut and pushed back to expose more of the underlying bone and tooth structure. In some cases, a drill may be used to remove a portion of the bone or reshape the tooth structure for easier extraction. This type of extraction is often necessary for molars or canines that have substantial decay or are broken beyond the gum line.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Fully Impacted Cases
One common type of surgical extraction is the removal of fully impacted wisdom teeth. These molars are typically removed between the ages of 18 and 21 because the roots are not fully developed. Ultimately, this makes the tooth extraction procedure easier and the recovery smoother. The procedure involves making incisions in the gum tissue and removing any bone that obstructs access to the tooth. From there, the impacted wisdom tooth is extracted.
Tooth extraction procedures can vary depending on the complexity of the case. For example, simple extractions are performed for easily accessible teeth under local anesthesia. In contrast, surgical extractions are more intricate and involve cutting gum tissue and sometimes removing bone or tooth structure. Wisdom teeth extraction, often fully impacted, is a common example of a surgical extraction.
At Cedarwood Dentistry, Dr. Wolberg and his team ensure that tooth extractions are performed with precision, care, and patient comfort in mind, making every effort to provide a smooth and successful experience for their patients.
At Cedarwood Dentistry, we cultivate dental health through personalized care. We offer a variety of dental services, including family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and emergency care in Midlothian, Virginia. Whether you last visited the dentist six months or six years ago, we can help bring your smile to life. Schedule your dentist appointment today, or call us at 804-379-9375.