Tooth Removal vs. Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What's the Difference?

Tooth removal in 76210 and wisdom tooth extractions are two common terms used to describe different procedures for pulling out teeth. The terms are often used interchangeably, but there are important differences between the two procedures.  

This article will discuss the differences between a normal tooth removal procedure and wisdom tooth extractions – and why certain procedures are better suited for certain cases.  

The Differences in the Two Procedures

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

First, you should be aware of the differences between a simple and complete wisdom tooth extraction. A simple wisdom tooth extraction is performed when there is no sign of a crowding problem, the tooth has broken through the gum, and the surrounding bone is healthy.  

A complete wisdom tooth extraction is performed when the tooth is too short to function, there is a crowding problem with the surrounding teeth, or it’s impacted.  

In this case, the impacted wisdom tooth or teeth should be removed to restore the jaw's proper growth and alignment, preventing damage to the overlying gum tissue and adjacent teeth. It prevents future problems and ensures that the adjacent teeth can grow normally.

Some reasons behind a wisdom tooth extraction include the following:  

Pain

When a wisdom tooth does not grow normally, you may experience discomfort and pain in the area.  

Infection

Because the tooth was not properly developed during the growing process, the tooth may have areas of decay or infection; thus, it must be removed.

Damage to Nearby Teeth

If the wisdom tooth is poorly positioned, it can cause damage to nearby teeth.  

Gum Disease

When the gums around the wisdom tooth become swollen or infected, there is a risk that the wisdom tooth may cause pain, inflammation, or infection in the area. If the gum disease is severe, the wisdom tooth may need to be removed.  

Extensive Tooth Decay

If the wisdom tooth is decaying so much that it affects the adjacent teeth, it needs to be removed. In this case, the removal will prevent the infection from spreading.  

To sum up, wisdom tooth extraction is often a more complicated surgical procedure because of the tooth's location. An oral surgeon usually does this procedure using local anesthesia or sedation to ensure the success of the said method. However, although wisdom teeth are usually removed, it's important to remember that it may not always be necessary.

Regular Tooth Removal

Tooth removal is a simple procedure commonly done by a general dentist or a dentist specializing in oral surgery. It's a procedure that can usually be done with an elevator tool, which will remove the tooth and the bone that surrounds it.  

However, your dentist will check whether your tooth still has hopes of being saved through root canal therapy. This therapy removes the dead pulp inside the tooth to prevent the infection from spreading and further damaging the tooth. Unfortunately, tooth extraction is typically the next step if root canal treatment is not possible.  

Reasons behind tooth removal include the following:

Severe Tooth Decay

If the tooth is decaying so much that it affects the adjacent teeth, it may be extracted. In this case, the extraction will prevent the infection from spreading.  

Periodontal Disease

When the gums around the teeth are inflamed, infected, or swollen, there is a risk that the tooth may cause pain, inflammation, or infection in the area. If the periodontal disease is severe, the gums holding the tooth can become weak and damaged, requiring the removal of the tooth.

Overcrowding

The tooth may need to be removed when there is a crowding problem with the surrounding teeth. It happens when there is no more room for the nearby teeth to position themselves properly, resulting in crooked teeth and bite problems.  

Knocked-out Teeth

Accidents happen. When you experience facial trauma, it can lead to knocked-out teeth. If not treated immediately or if the damage is too severe, the dentist may need to remove the tooth.

Do You Need Tooth Removal in 76210?  

We understand that it's always an unfortunate situation to remove a tooth. That is why we at Texas Oral Surgery Group make it a point to exhaust every possible option we can take to prevent this from happening.  

Unfortunately, there are times when removing a tooth is the best option available, and we are left with no other choice than to do it. Rest assured that if we do need to remove a tooth, restoration options are available. Please book a consultation today to talk to one of our dentists.