Most patients become apprehensive when their dentists mention oral surgery. What typically crosses their mind is that they are about to experience a painful, dangerous, and costly procedure.
The fact is that oral surgery is common and important for treating many conditions faced by patients. Although every case is unique, most of the procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can return to their normal routine within a few days.
Understand that a dentist will only refer you to an oral surgeon to ensure you get the best medical attention possible. They will explain why the procedure is necessary, and will only make the recommendation as a final resort — when non-surgical methods are not possible.
What Is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery is simply surgery involving the mouth tissues, including the gums and the teeth. Below are common instances of when a dentist may recommend oral surgery.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Not everyone grows wisdom teeth easily. Some people experience trapped or impacted molars, or in some cases, they may fail to erupt fully or become crooked. With time, the impacted tooth may cause severe pain and even affect nearby teeth. Crooked wisdom teeth trap food debris easily, aiding the development of tooth decay and gum disease. In such cases, a surgical procedure to remove the teeth may be the only way to correct the situation.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a severe sleep condition that should be treated urgently. Treatment options include wearing a mouthguard, or dental devices that open up the airways while sleeping, but that might not be advisable for some people. Surgery to remove the additional tissue in the throat and free up the airway is necessary to treat sleep apnea.
Reconstructive and Jaw Surgery
Maxillofacial surgeons are qualified to detect issues with jaw alignment and treat injuries that may demand operation. Reconstructive and jaw surgery can help improve a patient’s facial features, relieve pain and restore normal chewing function.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the leading treatment for restoring tooth loss. During the implant procedure, tiny titanium posts are inserted into the patient’s jaw and given time to heal. Afterward, prosthetic teeth will be attached to the posts to create a permanent tooth restoration that functions, feels, and look like a natural tooth.
What to Expect During Oral Surgery
The oral surgeon will guide you as to what to do before the surgical procedure, arrangements to make for the surgery, aftercare, and the medications you may need to use.
If the surgeon uses anesthesia, you will be asked not to eat or drink, beginning from the night before the surgery. In such instances, the surgery will be slated for morning to lessen the ache from thirst and hunger.
The oral surgeon will inform you of the number of days needed for recovery. That means you may need to take one or two days from work and avoid vigorous activities. You may be placed on pain relief medications and antibiotics for a certain period. You will also be advised to avoid specific foods and beverages during the healing period.
If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to ask the dental expert before commencing treatment.
Are you considering oral surgery in the Temple Terrace area? Check here for more oral surgery information.
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