Patients who need tooth extraction may wonder if they should go to a dentist or an oral surgeon. While both types of providers can perform extractions, it’s important to choose the right one depending on the type of procedure needed and how involved the work will be.
If you have a tooth that is causing you pain or other problems, you should contact your dentist. They may be able to help you determine if the tooth needs to be extracted and whether or not it can be done in the office.
This means that if your dentist can perform the extraction using Novocain or local anesthesia, they will do it right in the office. If the dentist determines that you need to see an oral surgeon, they will most likely have one they work with and can refer you to.
Here’s a look at why you need an oral surgeon:
1. Cracked or Fractured Teeth Require Intensive Care
If your tooth is already cracked or fractured, it is more likely to break during the extraction process. This will require a more intensive surgery, similar to what is needed for an impacted tooth.
2. Unique Facial Structures Are Considered
If your teeth are positioned in a way that makes it difficult for a dentist to extract them without causing discomfort, you may need to see an oral surgeon. This is often the case if you have large sinuses or limited jaw mobility.
3. Specific Surgery Is Required
Oral surgeons can provide a variety of surgical procedures. If you need to have your jaw restructured, a dental implant inserted, or your gums repaired, you will need to see an oral surgeon.
4. Complications Are Anticipated
If you want to ensure that your dental procedure is as smooth as possible, you will want to see an oral surgeon. This is especially true if you suffer from a disease or condition that makes it difficult to heal after surgery. An oral surgeon may need to be consulted if the tooth has complex roots or if there are cracks present. Oral surgeons know how to deal with complications and are trained to handle severe reactions to anesthesia.
5. Impacted Teeth Are Treated with Special Care
If your teeth are impacted or not visible above the gum line, you may need a more complex removal procedure than pulling them out. This procedure can be completed by a dentist or an oral surgeon but will likely involve general anesthesia and cutting into your mouth to remove the teeth. If you feel more comfortable with an oral surgeon, ask your dentist for an excellent recommendation.
6. You Can Choose to Be Sedated If You Have Dental Anxiety
Some people prefer to be asleep during a tooth extraction because they have dental anxiety or fear going to the dentist. Dentists and oral surgeons can administer sedation in these cases. Communicating your concerns about dental work with your dentist or oral surgeon is important to accommodate your needs best. You should only receive anesthesia from a trained professional to avoid adverse reactions.
Conclusion
It is definitely worth calling an oral surgeon for a tooth extraction. They are experts in the field and can handle the procedure quickly and efficiently. Additionally, they can provide you with post-operative care instructions to help you heal properly.
Manassas Smiles offers complete dental care services like cosmetic dentistry, dental implants or gum disease treatment under one roof. If you suffer from frequent headaches, have difficulty chewing or experience chronic jaw pain, you may be showing signs of TMJ disorder. Manassas family dentist, Dr. Nadder Hassan, provides bite analysis and jaw alignment screening, helping diagnose and treat the cause of TMJ disorder to alleviate painful symptoms. If you want to explore 24-hour dental care in Manassas, get in touch with us! Call us at (703) 335-1020 to set an appointment.