Oral Surgery Procedures

What is Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures performed on the mouth, jaw, and face. Oral surgeons are dental specialists who have completed additional training in surgical techniques and anesthesia administration.

Common Oral Surgery Procedures

Oral surgeons perform various procedures to address different dental and facial conditions:

• Tooth extractions (simple and surgical)
• Wisdom tooth removal
• Dental implant placement
• Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery)
• Treatment of facial trauma and injuries
• Cleft lip and palate repair
• Oral cancer treatment and reconstruction
• TMJ disorder treatment

Surgical Extractions

Surgical extractions are performed when teeth cannot be removed using simple extraction techniques. This may be necessary for impacted teeth, broken teeth, or teeth with complex root structures. The procedure involves making an incision in the gum tissue and may require removing bone to access the tooth.

Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. The surgery typically involves removing the wisdom teeth through small incisions in the gum tissue.

Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery involves placing titanium posts into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. This procedure requires careful planning and may involve bone grafting if there is insufficient bone density. Implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth.

Corrective Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic surgery corrects jaw alignment issues that cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone. This procedure can improve chewing function, speech, breathing, and facial appearance. It is often performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.

Anesthesia Options

Oral surgeons are trained in various anesthesia techniques to ensure patient comfort during procedures. Options include local anesthesia, sedation, and general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure and patient preferences.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure performed. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a week. Follow-up care is essential to monitor healing and address any complications that may arise.