Oral surgery is a type of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and injuries of the mouth, jaws, and other related structures. Oral surgeons are dental professionals who specialize in this area of dentistry.
There are many reasons why you might need oral surgery. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Wisdom teeth extraction: Wisdom teeth are the four molars that grow in the back of the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They are often impacted, which means they don't have enough room to grow in properly. This can lead to pain, infection, and other dental problems. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend having them removed.
- Root canal therapy: Root canal therapy is a procedure used to treat a tooth that is infected or damaged. During root canal therapy, the dentist or oral surgeon removes the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and fills the space with a material that will prevent further infection.
- Dental implant placement: Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth that is placed into the jawbone. They can be used to replace missing teeth or to support a bridge or denture.
- Surgery to correct jaw deformities: Jaw deformities can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, accidents, and injuries. Oral surgeons can perform surgery to correct these deformities, which can improve a person's appearance and function.
If you think you might need oral surgery, it's important to see a dentist or oral surgeon for a consultation. They will be able to assess your needs and recommend the best course of treatment.
Here are some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate that you need oral surgery:
- Pain in the mouth, jaw, or face
- Swelling in the mouth, jaw, or face
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Gum disease
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- A broken or chipped tooth
- A tooth that is decayed or infected
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist or oral surgeon right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent more serious problems.
What to expect during oral surgery
The type of oral surgery you will need will depend on the specific problem you are having. However, there are some general things you can expect during oral surgery.
You will be given local or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia will numb the area around the affected tooth or teeth. General anesthesia will put you to sleep during the procedure.
The oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue. This will allow them to access the affected tooth or teeth.
The oral surgeon will remove the tooth or teeth. They may also need to remove some bone or tissue.
The oral surgeon will close the incision with stitches.
After oral surgery, you will need to rest and recover. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding. Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you instructions on how to care for your mouth and manage any pain or discomfort.
Recovery from oral surgery
Recovery from oral surgery usually takes a few days. During this time, it's important to rest and avoid strenuous activity. You should also avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the surgery was performed.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery. These instructions may include:
- Taking pain medication as directed
- Applying ice to the affected area
- Eating soft foods
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water
- Keeping the area clean and dry
If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, be sure to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
