Oral Surgery
Restoring Oral Health and Function
Oral surgery, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on surgical procedures to restore oral health, function, and aesthetics.
Types of Oral Surgery:
- Extractions: Removing impacted, damaged, or infected teeth.
- Implant Placement: Inserting dental implants to replace missing teeth.
- Bone Grafting: Augmenting jawbone density to support implants.
- Gum Surgery: Correcting gum recession, gum disease, or uneven gum lines.
- Orthognathic Surgery: Correcting jaw alignment and bite issues.
- TMJ Surgery: Treating temporomandibular joint disorders.
- Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery: Correcting congenital defects.
- Oral Pathology: Diagnosing and treating oral diseases and lesions.
- Facial Reconstruction: Rebuilding facial structures after trauma or injury.
- Sleep Apnea Surgery: Treating sleep apnea through surgical interventions.
Reasons for Oral Surgery:
- Tooth damage or decay
- Gum disease
- Tooth loss
- Orthodontic issues
- TMJ disorders
- Dental trauma
- Congenital defects
- Cancer or tumor removal
Pre-Surgical Preparation:
- Consultation and evaluation
- Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans)
- Medical history review
- Medication adjustment
- Pre-surgical instructions
Surgical Procedures:
- Local anesthesia or sedation
- Incision and tissue removal (if necessary)
- Bone or tissue grafting
- Implant placement or restoration
- Suturing and recovery
Post-Surgical Care:
- Follow instructions for pain management
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities
- Maintain oral hygiene
- Soft food diet
- Schedule follow-up appointments
Risks and Complications:
- Infection
- Bleeding or swelling
- Nerve damage
- Dry socket
- Reaction to anesthesia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Infection, bleeding, nerve damage.
Varies (30 minutes to several hours).
Local anesthesia or sedation.
Varies (few days to several weeks).
Minimal discomfort.
