What is the Difference Between Extraction and Oral Surgery?

What is the Difference Between Extraction and Oral Surgery?

October 1, 2024

Regarding dental procedures, extraction and oral surgery are often used. Though they may sound similar, they refer to different processes. Having a know-how of the differences between these procedures can help you make decisions about your dental health.

What is an Extraction?

A tooth extraction is a straightforward dental procedure that involves eliminating a tooth from its socket in the bone. Extractions are commonly performed for various reasons:

  • Decay: When a tooth is very seriously decayed and can’t be saved by a filling or crown.
  • Infection: If an infection has damaged a tooth beyond repair.
  • Crowding: Make space for other teeth, especially in preparation for braces.
  • Gum Disease: Gum disease has caused a tooth to become loose.

The procedure is typically quick and performed under local anesthesia. In many cases, extractions are done by general dentists. Depending on the tooth’s condition and position, they can be simple or surgical.

What is Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery encompasses a broader range of surgical procedures on the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face. These procedures are more complex than simple extractions and require specialized training and skills.

An oral surgeon or an oral surgery dentist performs these surgeries. Common types of oral surgery include:

  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Removing teeth that haven’t emerged from the gums properly.
  • Dental Implants: Artificial tooth roots are placed to support replacement teeth.
  • Jaw Surgery: Correcting misaligned jaws to improve function and appearance.
  • Biopsies: Eliminating a small piece of tissue to diagnose oral conditions.
  • Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery: Repairing congenital deformities of the lip and palate.

Oral surgery in Burlington, ON, often requires more extensive preparation and recovery than a simple extraction. These procedures are typically done under sedation or general anesthesia.

Differences Between Extraction and Oral Surgery

While both extractions and oral surgery involve eliminating teeth or performing procedures on the mouth, there are key differences:

1. Complexity:

    • Extractions: Usually straightforward and less complex.
    • Oral Surgery: More complex, often involving specialized procedures beyond tooth removal.

2. Practitioner:

    • Extractions: Often performed by general dentists.
    • Oral Surgery: Performed by oral surgeons with specialized training.

3. Anesthesia:

    • Extractions: Typically done under local anesthesia.
    • Oral Surgery: Often requires sedation or general anesthesia for patient comfort.

4.Recovery:

    • Extractions: Shorter recovery time, minimal aftercare.
    • Oral Surgery: Longer recovery period and more extensive aftercare needed.

5. Scope:

  • Extractions: Limited to removing teeth.
  • Oral Surgery: Includes various procedures on the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face.

Common Reasons for Each Procedure

Extractions:

  • Severe Tooth Decay: When decay has damaged a tooth beyond repair.
  • Impacted Teeth: Commonly wisdom teeth that don’t have enough space to emerge correctly.
  • Orthodontic Treatment: Removing teeth to create space for braces.
  • Infection: Removing a tooth to prevent the spread of infection.
  • Gum Disease: When periodontal disease has weakened a tooth’s support.

Oral Surgery:

  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Surgical Removal of teeth that are not fully erupted.
  • Dental Implants: Inserting artificial roots to replace missing teeth.
  • Jaw Alignment: Correcting issues with jaw alignment and bite.
  • Facial Injuries: Repairing fractures or injuries to the facial bones.
  • Biopsies: Diagnosing suspicious growths or lesions in the mouth.

Both extractions and oral surgery address different dental issues. Your Burlington dentist can help determine the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

Types of Extractions and Oral Surgeries

Types of Extractions:

  • Simple Extraction: Removing a visible tooth. This is usually quick and done under local anesthesia.
  • Surgical Extraction is the process of tooth removal that is not easily accessible. This may involve cutting the gum or removing bone to extract the tooth.

Types of Oral Surgeries:

  • Wisdom Teeth Removal: Extracting impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.
  • Dental Implants: Implants are placed to replace missing teeth.
  • Jaw Surgery: Correcting jaw irregularities for better function and appearance.
  • Biopsies: Taking tissue samples to diagnose oral health conditions.
  • TMJ Surgery: Addressing temporomandibular joint disorders.

Each type of extraction and oral surgery has specific indications and techniques. Your oral surgeon or Burlington dentist will recommend the best approach based on your condition.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between extractions and oral surgery can help you make informed decisions about your dental health. While extractions are straightforward and often performed by the Burlington dentist’s office, oral surgery involves more complex procedures and specialized care. Both play vital roles in maintaining and restoring oral health. Schedule your appointment at Walkers Line Dental Centre today. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the best care possible.

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