What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery focuses explicitly on treating mouth, jaw, and face issues. Oral surgeons, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, are highly trained dental specialists who perform surgical procedures to help patients with a wide range of dental and facial issues.
Why Would Someone Need Oral Surgery?
There are several common reasons for needing oral surgery. Here are some of the most frequent ones:
1. Tooth Extractions
Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved. In these cases, oral surgery is used to remove the tooth. This is especially common with impacted wisdom teeth, which don’t have enough room to come in fully or grow at an angle, potentially causing pain and crowding.
2. Dental Implants
If you’re missing a tooth, a dental implant is a permanent solution that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Oral surgeons place a small titanium post in the jawbone to act as an artificial root, which can then be topped with a replacement tooth. Implants help restore the look and function of your smile.
3. Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
For people with severe overbites, underbites, or jaw misalignment, jaw surgery can improve appearance and function. Orthognathic surgery realigns the jaw to help with chewing, speaking, and breathing. It may also relieve pain caused by jaw issues.
4. Treatment of Facial Trauma
Oral surgeons are trained to handle facial injuries, such as broken jaws or fractures of other facial bones. They can repair these injuries to restore normal appearance and function, often working in emergency situations.
5. Correcting TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull. Some people experience chronic pain or clicking in this joint, which can interfere with chewing and speaking. Oral surgery can sometimes help if other treatments for TMJ disorder have not been effective.
6. Biopsies and Treatment of Oral Lesions
If there are unusual lumps, bumps, or sores in the mouth that don’t go away, an oral surgeon may perform a biopsy. This involves taking a small tissue sample to check for oral cancer or other health conditions.
7. Sleep Apnea Treatment
For some people with severe sleep apnea, oral surgery can help open up the airway, allowing for easier breathing and better sleep. This might involve removing excess tissue in the throat or repositioning parts of the jaw.
What to Expect with Oral Surgery
1. Consultation
Before any procedure, you’ll have a consultation with your oral surgeon. They’ll review your medical history, take X-rays, and discuss your symptoms and goals. This step helps your surgeon plan the best treatment for you.
2. Anesthesia Options
Oral surgery often involves anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The type of anesthesia will depend on the procedure and can range from local anesthesia (numbing the area) to general anesthesia (being asleep during the procedure).
3. Procedure
The surgery can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on what’s being done. Your oral surgeon will explain the steps, so you know exactly what to expect.
4. Recovery
After surgery, you’ll receive instructions on how to care for the area while it heals. This may include advice on managing pain, avoiding foods, and keeping the area clean. Depending on the procedure, complete recovery may take a few days to a few weeks.
### How to Prepare for Oral Surgery
To have the smoothest experience possible, here are some general tips for preparing:
Follow Pre-Op Instructions: Your surgeon will give you specific instructions, such as whether to avoid eating or drinking beforehand.
– Arrange Transportation: If you’re having anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
Prepare for Recovery: Stock up on soft foods and pain relievers as recommended. Ice packs to reduce swelling are also helpful.
Benefits of Oral Surgery
Oral surgery can offer significant benefits by:
– Relieving pain and discomfort
– Restoring normal function for eating, speaking, and breathing
– Improving overall oral health and hygiene
– Enhancing appearance and boosting confidence
In short, oral surgery is a specialized field that addresses issues impacting the mouth, jaw, and face. Whether it’s a simple extraction or more complex jaw surgery, oral surgery can help you find relief, restore your smile, and support your overall health.
Wisdom Teeth – Extractions – Extraction Site Preservation – Bone Grafting