Simple vs. Surgical Dental Extraction, Understanding the Difference

At Riverside Dental Clinic, we strive to save natural teeth whenever possible. If extraction is needed, Dr. Kenneth Poznikoff and our team offer pain-free dental extractions to make it as easy as possible for our patients to undergo this treatment. A visit to our Drumheller, Alberta office will determine if your tooth can be saved or has to be removed.

Reasons for Extraction

Your Drumheller dentist may recommend a tooth extraction for several reasons. Some of the most common reasons are:

• Severe decay, infection or damage that can’t be repaired with a filling, root canal, dental crown or any other dental treatment
• Teeth that have been compromised by periodontal disease
• Overcrowding issues causing painful symptoms
• Impacted wisdom teeth

By removing a severely decayed or damaged tooth, Dr. Poznikoff can protect nearby healthy teeth and preserve your oral health. 

Simple vs. Surgical Tooth Extraction: What’s the Difference? 

There are two types of tooth extraction procedures: simple and surgical. Both are performed under anesthesia.

Simple extractions are fairly straightforward as the tooth is visible and easy to reach. Using forceps, Dr. Poznikoff will wiggle the tooth out of its socket and pull it loose. Most people recover from this procedure within 24 hours and resume routine activities. 

Surgical tooth extractions are a bit more complex. They’re used when teeth aren’t visible above the gumline, as in the case of impacted wisdom teeth. For surgical extractions, your Drumheller dentist will need to make an incision in your gum to gain access to the tooth. In some cases, bone tissue will need to be removed, or your tooth will need to be broken into pieces to facilitate removal. Afterwards, we’ll stitch your wound to expedite healing.

Our dental extractions are painless as they’re performed under anesthesia. For those who are anxious or fearful about extraction procedures, we offer sedation options like nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help you relax before your treatment.  

Tooth Extraction Near Me

 To schedule a consultation for tooth extraction, contact Dr. Kenneth Poznikoff from Riverside Dental Clinic in Drumheller, AB, today at (403) 823-7755.

Dr. Ken Poznikoff, General Dentist

With over 38 years of experience, Dr. Ken Poznikoff is a highly skilled General Dentist and the owner of Riverside Dental Clinic. A graduate of the University of Alberta, he holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree as well as degrees in Science and Pharmacy. Dr. Poznikoff is committed to advanced dental education and has completed extensive training in orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, sleep disordered breathing, sedation dentistry, dentures and restorative dentistry. He holds hospital privileges at the Drumheller Regional Health Complex, providing surgical care under general anesthesia. Dedicated to long-term patient relationships, Dr. Poznikoff’s expertise and compassionate care makes him a trusted dental professional in the Drumheller community.

Dr. Xufan Huang, General Dentist

Dr. Xufan Huang is a dedicated General Dentist at Riverside Dental Clinic, known for his expertise and compassionate approach to patient care. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Alberta, where he received the prestigious Dr. E. J. Rajczak Student Scholar Award for achieving the highest standing in Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics. Dr. Huang believes in listening to his patients and educating them about their oral health, empowering them to make informed decisions. He is committed to continuous learning, regularly updating his skills with the latest dental techniques and technologies. Dr. Huang also values mentorship, sharing his knowledge and experience with others in the field. At Riverside Dental, Dr. Huang is focused on building long-term relationships with his patients, fostering trust, and helping them achieve healthy, confident smiles.

Dr. Claude Boutin, Orthodontist

Dr. Claude Boutin is a Board-Certified Orthodontist with over 35 years of specialized orthodontic care in Calgary and at Riverside Dental Clinic. A University of Alberta graduate, he pursued advanced orthodontic training at the University of Toronto. Dr. Boutin is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and an active member of multiple orthodontic associations. Known for staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, Dr. Boutin frequently attends national conferences and lectures at prestigious meetings. His dedication to excellence and his involvement in the community solidifies his reputation as a leading orthodontic specialist.

Dr. Ben Thomas, Periodontist

Dr. Ben Thomas is a distinguished Periodontist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery, a Master of Public Health, and a Specialty Certificate in Periodontics from the University of North Carolina. With IV Sedation and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications, Dr. Thomas provides comprehensive periodontal care, including implant placement, gum grafting, and periodontal regeneration. A fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and a member of several prestigious periodontal organizations, Dr. Thomas stays at the forefront of periodontal advancements. His dedication to patient care and extensive expertise makes him a trusted professional at Riverside Dental Clinic.

Dr. Scott Townsend, General Dentist

Dr. Scott Townsend is a General Dentist with 19 years of experience. A former hockey player in the Western Hockey League, Dr. Townsend brings the same dedication and teamwork to his dental practice. He holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Alberta and is a member of the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta, The Alberta Dental Association and the Canadian Dental Association. Dr. Townsend specializes in oral surgery including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and periodontal treatments. His compassionate approach and commitment to ongoing education ensure that patients receive personalized surgical care at Riverside Dental Clinic.

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