Many people get terrified when their dentist proposes “oral surgery.” the patient may believe that there is something significantly wrong with them since they are about to endure a hazardous, unpleasant, and costly surgery.
However, many oral surgery operations are routine and address diseases that many individuals have, such as impacted wisdom teeth, sleep apnea, or tooth loss. While each situation is unique, many of these treatments are performed as outpatient procedures, and patients may return to work or have regular activities within a few days.
It’s also true that many dentists will refer you to an oral surgeon since the dentist wants to make sure you’re receiving the finest treatment available. In rare circumstances, the surgeon may encourage you to see your dentist about other, nonsurgical therapies. Speak with your dentist if you are particularly concerned about being sent to an oral surgeon. He or she can reassure you and give further information about why they have made this advice.
The following are some frequently asked questions about oral surgeons and oral surgery:
What is the definition of oral and maxillofacial surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is surgery done on the tissues of your mouth, including your teeth and gums, or on your jaw, head, or face in the case of maxillofacial surgery.
What are the most common oral surgery procedures?
Oral surgeons are relied upon to execute a number of treatments as well as to consult in cases when conventional dentists are unclear if surgical therapy is required. Some of the most prevalent forms of oral surgery are as follows:
Wisdom tooth extraction with impact
While some individuals have no issues with their wisdom teeth, it is typical for these third molars to become impacted, or imprisoned, as a result of not completely erupting or misalignment. An impacted wisdom tooth may grow uncomfortable over time and ultimately cause misalignment of the surrounding teeth. Furthermore, food may get readily caught around wisdom teeth, leading to gum disease and tooth damage.
In certain circumstances, your normal dentist may extract a wisdom tooth, but impacted teeth may need the services of an oral surgeon.
Treatment for sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a significant sleep problem that needs medical attention. While there are various treatment options for this problem, including the use of a mouth guard or a special machine that keeps the airway open at night, surgery may be an option for certain patients. An oral surgeon may remove extra tissue from the back of your throat, freeing the airway and considerably reducing discomfort.
Jaw and reconstructive surgery
Maxillofacial surgeons are skilled to identify jaw alignment issues as well as traumas that may need surgical intervention. Reconstructive and jaw surgery may enhance a patient’s look while also relieving discomfort and allowing the patient to chew food correctly.
Implants for teeth
Dental implants are a treatment option for tooth loss. Small posts are put in the patient’s tooth sockets and allowed to recover during a dental implant operation. Following that, fake teeth are fastened onto these posts, resulting in permanent replacements that appear and feel natural.
If you’re considering oral surgery or any other dental procedure, be sure to consult with the Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants first.