Oral surgery in dental surgery: A guide to better understand
Oral surgery may sound impressive, but it is often required to address a variety of dental and oral problems. Whether it's removing a fickle wisdom tooth, placing a dental implant, or treating an infection, oral surgery plays a crucial role in maintaining your oral health. Let's see what oral surgery is, why it's needed, and how it's done.
Oral surgery is a specialty of dental surgery that encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures performed in the mouth and jaw. Oral surgeons are specialized dentists with advanced training to perform procedures that are more complex than conventional dental treatments.
The types of oral surgeries can vary, ranging from minor procedures, such as tooth extraction, to more complex operations, such as jaw reconstruction. Regardless of the complexity, the aim is always to solve a problem that cannot be treated by conservative methods.
There are several reasons why a dentist may recommend oral surgery. Some of the most common situations include:
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Wisdom teeth can sometimes lack space to grow properly, causing pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.
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When a tooth is missing, an implant can be placed to replace the root of the tooth. This procedure requires surgery to insert the implant into the bone.
After trauma, oral surgery may be required to repair fractures in the jaw or other facial structures.
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If abnormalities are found in the mouth, surgery may be done to remove them or to take a sample for a biopsy.
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For complex jaw problems, such as severe misalignments that affect chewing or facial appearance.
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Serious infections that spread to the roots of the teeth or to the bones of the jaw may require surgery.
The course of oral surgery depends on the type of procedure, but here are the main steps that are generally followed:
Before surgery, you'll meet with the oral surgeon to discuss the problem, undergo tests (such as X-rays or a CT scan), and plan the procedure. This is also a time to ask any questions you may have and feel confident about the process.
Depending on the complexity of the surgery, the procedure may be performed under local anesthesia (you are awake but the area is numb) or general anesthesia (you sleep during the operation).
The surgeon performs the necessary operation, whether it's an extraction, implant placement, or other procedure. This can last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the type of surgery.
After surgery, recovery time is required. You will receive instructions on home care, such as pain management, dietary precautions, and oral hygiene. It is normal to experience swelling and tenderness for a few days.
Although the idea of surgery can be daunting, the benefits of oral surgery are numerous and often essential for regaining a perfect smile:
Oral surgery can treat dental or facial problems that cannot be resolved with less invasive treatments, such as conventional dental care.
By removing problem wisdom teeth or treating infections, oral surgery can prevent more serious complications.
Whether by restoring normal chewing function or by relieving pain, oral surgery greatly improves patient comfort.
In the case of orthognathic surgery or fracture repair, oral surgery can improve function and restore facial aesthetics.
Preparation and follow-up are essential to experience oral surgery with peace of mind. Here are some tips to help you get through this stage successfully:
If your surgeon gives you recommendations before surgery, follow them to the letter to avoid problems.
If you are under general anesthesia or sedation, make sure you have someone to accompany you and take you home.
Respect the instructions for rest, hygiene and nutrition. Avoid hard or hot foods, and prefer soft, lukewarm meals.
Healing takes time. If you experience severe pain or severe swelling, contact your surgeon immediately.
Oral surgery, while impressive, is a procedure that can greatly improve your oral health and overall well-being. Whether it's removing wisdom teeth, placing implants, or treating infections, oral surgery is often a key step in regaining a healthy and functional smile.
By working hand in hand with your oral surgeon and following their recommendations, you can approach this experience with peace of mind, knowing that you are taking care of your health for the long term.
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