Being told you need a tooth removed is never welcome news — but understanding the type of extraction you may need can ease much of the anxiety. The procedure your dentist recommends depends on the position, condition, and accessibility of the tooth.
Tooth extractions are among the most common procedures in dentistry, yet many patients are unsure of the difference between a simple extraction and a surgical one. In short, it comes down to how accessible the tooth is: a visible, fully erupted tooth can usually be removed simply, while a tooth that is impacted, broken, or trapped beneath bone requires a surgical approach.
This guide explains both types of extraction side by side — covering what each involves, how recovery differs, what you can expect to pay, and how to know which one applies to your situation.
The type of extraction you need is determined by clinical assessment. The information below is for general guidance only.
Procedure type
Simple
Removal of a fully visible, erupted tooth using forceps
Surgical
Removal of a tooth that is impacted, broken, or not fully accessible
Complexity
Simple
Straightforward — minimal instrumentation required
Surgical
More involved — may require incision, bone removal, or sectioning of the tooth
Anaesthesia used
Simple
Local anaesthetic
Surgical
Local anaesthetic; sedation available for anxious patients or complex cases
Treatment time
Simple
Usually 15–30 minutes
Surgical
Typically 30–60 minutes, depending on complexity
Pain management
Simple
Discomfort is usually mild and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief
Surgical
Moderate discomfort for a few days; stronger pain relief may be prescribed
Recovery time
Simple
2–3 days for initial healing; full gum closure in 1–2 weeks
Surgical
5–7 days for initial healing; full tissue recovery in 2–4 weeks
Indicative cost (UK)
Simple
From approximately £150–£250*
Surgical
From approximately £250–£450*
Suitability
Simple
Visible, erupted teeth with intact roots and no complications
Surgical
Impacted wisdom teeth, broken roots, teeth fractured below the gumline
*Indicative prices for private treatment. Final costs depend on clinical findings. See our full treatment fees.
A simple extraction is used to remove a tooth that is fully visible above the gumline and has intact roots. The dentist numbs the area with local anaesthetic, loosens the tooth using an elevator instrument, and lifts it out with dental forceps. No incisions or bone removal are needed.
This is the most common type of extraction and is typically quick, straightforward, and well-tolerated by patients.
Patients with visible, accessible teeth that have straightforward root anatomy. If the tooth can be grasped and eased out without additional surgical steps, a simple extraction is almost always the preferred approach.
A surgical extraction is required when a tooth cannot be removed simply — either because it is not fully visible, is trapped beneath bone or gum tissue, or has fractured in a way that makes forceps removal impossible.
The procedure typically involves making a small incision in the gum to expose the tooth. In some cases, a small amount of bone around the tooth may need to be removed, or the tooth itself may be sectioned (divided into pieces) so it can be taken out safely and with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.
Patients with impacted wisdom teeth, teeth broken below the gumline, complex root anatomy, or any situation where a simple extraction is not clinically feasible. Your dentist will determine the approach after reviewing your X-rays and examining the tooth.
A simple extraction uses standard instruments — an elevator and forceps — and requires no incisions. A surgical extraction involves cutting into the gum, and may include bone removal or tooth sectioning. The surgical approach is more involved but is designed to handle situations where a simple technique is not sufficient.
The defining factor: if the tooth is fully visible and accessible above the gumline, it is a candidate for simple extraction. If it is partially or fully hidden beneath gum tissue or bone — as is common with impacted wisdom teeth — surgical extraction is necessary.
Simple extractions heal faster because less tissue is disturbed. Most patients recover within a few days. Surgical extractions involve more extensive tissue handling, so swelling, bruising, and discomfort may last five to seven days, with full healing taking up to four weeks.
Both procedures are painless during treatment thanks to local anaesthetic. Post-procedure, simple extractions cause mild discomfort easily managed with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Surgical extractions may cause more noticeable soreness and swelling — your dentist may prescribe stronger pain relief and antibiotics if needed.
Surgical extraction costs more than simple extraction due to the additional skill, time, and equipment involved. However, both are routine procedures and the price difference is typically moderate. View our transparent fee guide for exact figures.
Advantages
Considerations
Advantages
Considerations
Why does surgical extraction cost more? The higher fee reflects the additional clinical time, specialist instruments, and — in some cases — sedation required for complex removals. Despite the price difference, surgical extraction remains a routine and cost-effective procedure when it is clinically necessary. In some cases, root canal treatment may offer an alternative to extraction altogether — your dentist will discuss all viable options.
*Prices are indicative and may vary following clinical assessment. Costs at other practices may differ.
You will not always get to choose — the type of extraction is determined by the clinical situation. However, understanding what each involves helps you feel prepared. Your dentist will confirm the most appropriate approach after examination and X-rays.
If your tooth is fully visible, has intact roots, and is not impacted, a simple extraction is the quickest, most comfortable, and most affordable option.
If your tooth is trapped beneath the gum, broken below the surface, or has complicated root anatomy, surgical extraction is the safe, controlled way to remove it without risking damage to surrounding structures.
Simple extraction wins on recovery time — most patients are back to normal within two to three days. If speed of recovery is a priority, discuss with your dentist whether a simple approach is feasible for your tooth.
When a tooth is deeply impacted, severely fractured, or causing recurring infection, surgical extraction resolves the problem definitively and prevents further complications down the line.
Our experienced team will examine your tooth, take any necessary X-rays, and explain exactly which type of extraction is needed — clearly and without jargon. Same-day appointments available seven days a week.
Visit us in South Kensington (open 7 days) or at our City of London clinic — no referral required.