When it comes to extractions, we often get asked “do I need to see an oral surgeon?” A tooth extraction is nothing to take lightly. It’s important to let Dr. Jennifer Wells evaluate the situation to determine whether if the extraction needs to be referred out to an Oral Surgeon.
Both dentists and oral surgeons can preform extractions. How does Dr. Wells know if she has to refer out? The answer depends on what type of procedure you need, your current medical conditions, and how involved the extraction will be.
Getting Started: Dentist or Oral Surgeon?
If you are having any type of complications with your teeth, your first step should be to contact your dentist. Here at First Impressions Family Dentistry you can contact us at 704.933.2115 to get emergency appointments worked in.
The dentist will then evaluate the situation to determine whether an extraction is needed. This consultation typically involves x-rays and an examination of the affected tooth or teeth.
From there, the dentist will make a recommendation about whether he or she can perform the extraction. If the tooth can be removed in office, often the extraction can be done the same time as your consultation. If the dentist determines that an oral surgeon is necessary, most dental offices have oral surgeons they routinely work with. This makes for an easy referral.
Reasons for Referral to an Oral Surgeon
There are a few good reasons why seeing an oral surgeon may be necessary for a successful extraction:
Impacted Teeth: If your teeth are impacted, either under the gum tissue or under the bone the extraction may be more complicated. This procedure will likely involve general anesthesia and cutting into the mouth to remove teeth. Sounds like surgery, right? This makes sense to go see an oral surgeon.
Facial Structure: The positioning of your teeth in your mouth may make it difficult for a dentist to perform the extraction without causing discomfort. Large sinuses or limited jaw mobility may necessitate an extraction by an oral surgeon.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth: Teeth that are already cracked or fractured are more likely to break during the extraction. This will require a more extensive surgical procedure, similar to what’s needed for an impacted tooth.
Dental Anxiety: Regardless of the physical situation with your tooth, some patients prefer to be asleep for an extraction if they suffer from dental anxiety or fear of going to the dentist. In this case, an oral surgeon is needed to administer general anesthesia.
Extraction Complications: As much as any dentist strives perfection, things can go wrong during some extractions. If the tooth has complex roots or fractures during the procedure, an oral surgeon may be needed to complete the process. In this case, you would be referred to a surgeon as quickly as possible to minimize discomfort and the risk for further complications.
First Impressions Family Dentistry Extraction Services
First Impressions Family Dentistry is lucky enough to work with some amazing oral surgeons. Regardless of your needs are, we can make sure you are always seeing the best! We offer emergency services and also welcome new patients.
If you have a tooth that’s been bugging you for a while, let us help you determine if an extraction is needed and if it needs to be referred.
