Oral Surgery
Oral surgery is a specialized field of dentistry that involves surgical procedures to diagnose, treat, and manage various conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, and jaws. It encompasses a range of procedures, including tooth extraction, dental implant placement, corrective jaw surgery, treatment of oral infections, and removal of impacted teeth.
Oral surgery may be necessary for several reasons, such as advanced tooth decay, impacted wisdom teeth, facial trauma, or corrective treatments for dental or skeletal irregularities. The procedures are typically performed in a dental office or hospital setting, under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Oral surgery plays a critical role in improving oral health, alleviating pain, restoring functionality, and enhancing the overall aesthetic appearance of the face and smile.
The field of oral surgery continues to advance with the integration of new technologies and techniques, ensuring safer and more effective treatment outcomes for patients.
Treatments Under Oral Surgery
Tooth and Gum Surgery
Tooth and gum surgery is a specialized area within oral surgery that focuses on treating conditions related to the teeth and gums. It encompasses various surgical procedures aimed at addressing issues such as gum disease, tooth loss, gum recession, and dental implant placement.
Tooth and gum surgery also includes procedures for tooth extraction, especially in cases of impacted or severely damaged teeth. Dental implant surgery is another important aspect, involving the placement of artificial tooth roots to support replacement teeth.
These surgeries are performed by skilled oral surgeons using advanced techniques and technology. With proper care and maintenance, tooth and gum surgery can provide long-lasting results and contribute to a healthier oral environment.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common oral surgery procedure aimed at removing the third molars, known as wisdom teeth,arriving at the age of 18-25 years. These teeth can become impacted due to limited space in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infections, gum disease, and damage to surrounding teeth. The extraction procedure involves administering anesthesia for patient comfort, followed by the careful removal of the impacted teeth through surgical techniques.
After the procedure, post-operative care is essential, including following instructions, taking prescribed medications, and practicing good oral hygiene. Wisdom tooth extraction helps prevent future oral health issues, providing relief from pain and reducing the risk of infections, ultimately promoting overall dental well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oral surgery is a specialized branch of dentistry that involves surgical procedures performed on the mouth, jaws, and related structures. It includes extractions, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, jaw surgery, and more.
Oral surgery may be necessary to treat a variety of conditions, including impacted wisdom teeth, tooth loss requiring dental implants, jaw misalignment, TMJ disorders, facial trauma, and oral pathology.
Yes, oral surgery procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s comfort level.
Yes, wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures. Wisdom teeth often become impacted or cause crowding and require extraction to prevent pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth.
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. It provides a stable foundation for a replacement tooth (crown) or a dental bridge.
Most individuals who are in good overall health and have sufficient jawbone density are candidates for dental implants. However, a thorough evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon is necessary to determine eligibility.
Oral surgery is typically performed under anesthesia, ensuring that the procedure itself is pain-free. After surgery, some discomfort and swelling are normal, but pain can be managed with prescribed medications and post-operative care instructions.
The recovery period after oral surgery varies depending on the procedure. Simple extractions may require a few days of recovery, while more complex surgeries like dental implants or jaw surgery may take weeks or months for complete healing.
After oral surgery, it’s important to follow a soft or liquid diet initially to avoid irritating the surgical site. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
Start Your Teeth Care Today