Tooth extraction, performed by dentists and oral surgeons, is the removal of a damaged tooth from the mouth. It may be necessary to remove a tooth due to decay, infection, or injury. During the tooth extraction process, local anaesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth. A dental instrument called an elevator is then used to loosen the tooth before it is removed. The entire tooth extraction process usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Let us discuss the different kinds of tooth extraction, how it is performed, how to prepare before, and what to anticipate after the procedure.
The right kind of tooth extraction is mostly based upon the tooth's location, position, size, and shape in the mouth. They are classified into two types- Extraction under LA and extraction under GA.
Simple tooth extraction or extraction under LA:
This type of tooth extraction is performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth and can be removed with dental instruments. The dentist, using a local anaesthetic, will numb the area around the tooth. Once the tooth is numb, he/she will utilize a dental elevator to loosen the tooth and then remove it with forceps.
Surgical tooth extraction or extraction under GA:
Surgical tooth extraction is also called an "impacted tooth extraction." This is a more complicated procedure and is usually performed by an oral surgeon.
Impact teeth are usually buried deep within the gum and bone, and can be very difficult to remove. In some cases, the tooth may need to be removed in bits and pieces.
The first step in a surgical extraction is to numb the area around the tooth. This is usually done with local anaesthesia, but in some cases, sedation or general anaesthesia may be used.
Once the area is numb, the oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum to expose the tooth. The bone around the tooth may also need to be removed.
The tooth is then extracted, and the area is sutured closed. Recovery from a surgical extraction can take a few days.