Categories: Tooth Extraction

Can a General Dentist Perform a Tooth Extraction?

If you need a tooth extraction, you probably wonder if your regular dentist can perform the extraction or if the procedure will need to be done by an oral surgeon. The answer to this question depends on several factors and should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Read on to understand the different factors that go into you and your dentist or oral surgeon deciding who will perform your tooth extraction.

Simple extraction vs. surgical extraction

The first factor in play is whether the extraction will be a simple extraction or a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is removing a tooth that is fully erupted, meaning that it is fully above the gum line and is visible in your mouth. A surgical extraction is necessary when a tooth has not erupted and is hidden below the gum line in the jawbone or has only partially erupted. This situation is common with wisdom teeth, which are the last set of molars that come in. A general dentist can perform a simple tooth extraction using forceps. For a surgical extraction, however, only an oral surgeon is qualified to perform the extraction procedure.

General dentist vs. an oral surgeon

It should be noted that a general dentist can perform simple tooth extractions. Many people rely on their general dentist to perform this routine procedure, and it is easily accomplished in-office. However, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon in some instances. If you have limited jaw mobility, large sinuses, or your teeth are positioned in a way that prevents a general dentist from being able to perform the tooth extraction; then an oral surgeon will need to do the procedure. 

Another reason you would need an oral surgeon for your tooth extraction is if the tooth or teeth you are having removed are cracked or broken. Removal of cracked or broken teeth is more complicated than extracting an intact tooth and requires oral anesthesia. Oral surgeons are can also help patients with dental anxiety because oral surgeons are qualified to administer a variety of different types of anesthesia. 

When simple tooth extractions aren’t simple

Simple tooth extractions are not always so simple. If, for some reason, you are at risk for complications from simple tooth extraction, your general dentist will guide what you should do next. Some of the complications patients may experience during a simple tooth extraction include cracks or complex tooth root systems. 

It’s important to note that every patient is different. The requirements for your procedure will depend on many factors, such as your current tooth health, location of the extraction, and your risk of developing complications. Your dentist can provide more information about whether he or she can perform the extraction in their office. 

Request an appointment here: https://hydepark.smilestudiochicago.com or call Hyde Park Smile Studio at (773) 232-1973 for an appointment in our Chicago office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Extraction in Chicago, IL.

Related Posts

Ask A Dentist: Should I Wait To Get A Tooth Extraction?

You may be wondering if you need to get a tooth extraction, or you may be feeling apprehensive about it. Luckily, tooth extraction is a safe procedure. Often, it is imperative to remove the tooth as quickly as possible. However, as long as the damaged tooth is promptly removed, the adverse effects are mitigated. We…

The Importance Of Seeing A Preventive Dentist Regularly

Seeing a preventive dentist is a vital part of your oral healthcare routine each year. However, many people skip this essential step because they do not want to spend time at a dental office. Fortunately, a preventive dentist provides many valuable services that can help your smile last a lifetime and stop future issues before…

Gum Disease Treatment: What To Expect From Start To Finish

Think you may need gum disease treatment? Read on to learn more about this condition. Gum disease treatment is necessary if infection-causing bacteria invade the oral cavity. Without prompt treatment, the bacteria will cause severe gum inflammation, which can lead to problems with the bones and tissues that support the teeth.Gingivitis is the first stage…

Transforming Your Smile: Steps To A Successful Smile Makeover

A successful smile makeover can transform how you look and address lingering issues that you may be self-conscious about. Whether you do not like the shade of your teeth or think that the gaps between your teeth are too large, cosmetic dentistry can offer smile makeover services tailored to your goals.Since smile makeovers are unique…

Hyde Park Smile Studio

Share
Published by
Hyde Park Smile Studio

Recent Posts

The Importance of Seeing a Preventive Dentist Regularly

Seeing a preventive dentist does not usually take more than an hour. It is an…

2 weeks ago

Gum Disease Treatment: What To Expect From Start To Finish

Gum disease treatment is necessary if infection-causing bacteria invade the oral cavity. Without prompt treatment,…

2 months ago

Transforming Your Smile: Steps to a Successful Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a cosmetic process that alters the aesthetic of the smile without…

2 months ago

How a Restorative Dentist Can Help After a Traumatic Accident

One of the primary concerns that often develops after a traumatic incident is the development…

3 months ago

Dentures Causing Sore Spots in Mouth: Denture Adjustment Needed

Learn why a denture adjustment is needed when you have sore spots in your mouth.…

4 months ago

Tooth-Colored Dental Filling Options

Tooth-colored dental fillings are the popular way to fill up cavities these days. Silver amalgam…

6 months ago