Oral Dental Surgery

Oral dental surgery may include wisdom tooth surgery, implantation of dental implants or even gum graft surgeries. In general, the term oral surgery refers to a dentistry branch dealing with treating oral conditions that will require surgery. Oral surgeons happen to be dentists that have special training that allows them to perform surgeries of the jaw and mouth. This type of surgery can include dental procedures, jaw realignment procedures, facial reconstruction procedures and even cosmetic procedures. Here is a closer look at some of the common oral surgery procedures that may be performed by an oral surgeon.

The extraction of a wisdom tooth often occurs because there is a potential for future problems or because the teeth have become impacted. Some of the problems that may occur if this procedure is not completed can include misalignment of teeth, the crowding of teeth or even infections. These procedures can be quite complex and require the skills of an oral surgeon.

This type of oral dental surgery is performed to enhance the appearance of the maxillofacial region and the oral cavity. Some of the cosmetic surgeries performed by oral surgeons include jaw reconstructions and realignments. These procedures are not medically necessary and are done to improve the way an individual looks instead of to improve overall function.

Oral dental surgery can include periodontal surgery as well. These operations are performed to repair abnormalities or treat disease within the tissues that support and surround teeth. The surrounding, support tissues include the gums, periodontal ligament, cementum and the alveolar bone.

These types of procedures are also performed by oral surgeons, along with maxillofacial surgeons. In many cases, these procedures are needed after a serious accident. However, they may also be used to treat abnormal conditions. Facial reconstruction procedures are often required after sports injuries, home accidents, vehicle accidents or even after being a victim of violence. These surgeries may be quite lengthy and often will require patients to be hospitalized.

Depending upon the specific procedure, recovery from oral surgery may take from only a couple days to two weeks. After the procedure is performed, patients can expect to deal with some pain, bleeding and swelling. Based upon the extend of the oral procedure, the pain experienced after surgery can vary. Surgeons may prescribe pain medications to help relief pain or may recommend over the counter medications for pain.

Swelling is quite common for individuals who have had oral surgery. To help relieve swelling, your surgeon may instruct you to keep the head elevated when you lie down. Ice packs can also be used to help reduce swelling. Swelling may last as long as 7-10 days and slight bruising and muscle stiffness often accompanies swelling as well.

Bleeding often occurs when recovering from an oral surgery, such as a wisdom tooth extraction. This may occur within 24 hours of the procedure and gauze can be used to help stop the bleeding. To avoid causing more bleeding, vigorous spitting and rinsing are not recommended after these procedures and flossing and brushing should be done gently. Rest is usually needed for a couple days and smoking is discouraged.

When any oral dental surgery is performed, there are some risks to consider. Some of the risks include complications from the surgical procedure, anesthesia risks and the risk of excessive bleeding. In most cases, quality, well-trained surgeons work hard to ensure the risks of the procedure are minimal. Before you have a procedure done, be sure to ask your oral surgeon to inform you of the possible risks so you are well informed.

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