Oral surgery encompasses a variety of procedures that address issues related to the mouth, teeth, jaws, and facial structures. Ranging from routine tooth extractions to more complex operations like corrective jaw surgery, these medical interventions are integral to resolving dental and oral health problems. Here's a concise overview tailored for website visitors seeking information about the field of oral surgery.


WHAT IS ORAL SURGERY?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region. Surgeons in this field can perform a wide array of procedures, including wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, reconstructive surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, and treatment of oral cancers.


COMMON ORAL SURGERY PROCEDURES

Some of the most common procedures performed by oral surgeons include:

TOOTH EXTRACTIONS: Removal of teeth that are damaged, decayed, or causing crowding. Wisdom teeth removal falls under this category and is one of the most well-known oral surgery procedures.

DENTAL IMPLANT PLACEMENT: The surgical insertion of artificial tooth roots into the jawbone, where they serve as a sturdy foundation for prosthetic teeth. This process typically includes multiple stages, starting with the initial implant placement below the gum line, followed by a healing period during which the bone integrates with the implant. Once the healing is complete, the dentist attaches an abutment to the implant, which extends through the gums and provides support for the replacement tooth or dental crown.

WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL: A common dental procedure that involves extracting one or more of the third molars located at the back of the mouth. This process may be necessary when the wisdom teeth are impacted, causing pain, infection, or crowding issues. The extraction procedure usually begins with local anesthesia to numb the area, followed by the careful removal of the wisdom teeth through surgical techniques, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient.

TORI REMOVAL: Another specialized procedure within oral surgery is tori removal. Dental tori are bony growths located on the lower jaw (mandibular) or upper jaw (palatal). While generally benign, in certain cases, they may disrupt normal function or interfere with the fitting of dental appliances. Tori removal is thus carried out to relieve discomfort, enhance oral function, or as a preparatory step for prosthetic tooth fittings.


RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE

Recovery times and aftercare instructions will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. Generally, post-operative care includes managing swelling and discomfort, adhering to a soft-food diet, and avoiding strenuous activity for a period. Proper aftercare is crucial in order to ensure a smooth and quick healing process and to prevent any potential complications.


CHOOSING AN ORAL SURGEON

When choosing an oral surgeon, it's important to select a qualified and experienced professional. Look for board certification and specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Personal referrals, reviews, and consultation appointments can also be helpful in making an informed choice. Oral surgery can significantly improve a person's quality of life by alleviating pain, improving function, and enhancing appearance. If you are in need of oral surgery, it's recommended to discuss your options with your dentist or a specialist to determine the best course of action for your dental health and overall well-being.