Have your teeth been in better shape? Are you experiencing severe discomfort or pain in your mouth? It might be time to consider oral surgery. While the thought of undergoing any type of surgery can be scary, it’s important to remember that oral surgery can greatly improve your overall dental health and quality of life.

There are many reasons why someone may need oral surgery, ranging from cosmetic enhancements to more serious medical conditions. In this article, we’ll discuss seven different types of oral surgery and what you can expect during each procedure. Don’t be scared, we’re here for you!

Wisdom Teeth Removal

One common type of oral surgery is wisdom teeth removal. Most people have four wisdom teeth located at the back corners of their mouth. However, not everyone has enough room in their mouth for these teeth to grow in properly. This can lead to impaction, where the wisdom teeth are unable to fully emerge from the gums.

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a range of issues such as pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. To prevent these problems, your dentist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth through oral surgery. During the procedure, you will be given anesthesia to ensure you do not feel any pain or discomfort. Your dentist will then make an incision in the gum tissue and remove any necessary bone to access and extract the impacted tooth. Afterward, stitches may be used to close the incision and promote healing.

Be sure to follow any aftercare instructions provided by your dentist. This usually includes taking prescribed pain medication and avoiding certain foods for a few days. You’ll want to keep the extraction site clean by gently rinsing with warm saltwater. Avoid using straws and smoking, as these can disrupt the healing process. Additionally, make sure to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days after the surgery.

Dental Implants

If you have missing teeth or severely damaged ones, dental implants may be the solution for you. This type of oral surgery involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. The post is then topped with a crown, which looks and functions like a natural tooth. Dental implants have many benefits, including improved speech and chewing abilities, prevention of bone loss in the jaw, and a more natural-looking smile. The procedure typically requires multiple appointments and a healing period between each stage.

Corrective Jaw Surgery

Also known as orthognathic surgery, corrective jaw surgery is used to correct issues with the jaw and bite that cannot be fixed through traditional orthodontic treatment. This can include correcting misaligned jaws or addressing skeletal discrepancies. The procedure is typically performed in a hospital and requires general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make incisions in the mouth to access the jawbone and make any necessary changes. Afterward, your jaw may be wired shut or held in place with small screws as it heals.

Gum Grafts

Gum grafting is a type of oral surgery used to treat receding gums. This condition commonly occurs due to gum disease, but can also be caused by aggressive brushing or genetics. During a gum graft procedure, tissue will be taken from the roof of your mouth or another donor source and placed over the exposed roots of your teeth. This helps protect the roots and prevent further recession.

Tongue Tie Release

Tongue tie is a condition where the tongue is connected to the floor of the mouth by a thick or tight band of tissue, limiting its movement. This can cause issues with speech, swallowing, and even breastfeeding in infants. A tongue tie release involves using a laser or scalpel to cut the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth. The procedure is simple and usually only takes a few minutes.

Biopsies

Oral biopsies are used to diagnose potential oral health issues such as oral cancer. During this procedure, your dentist will remove a small piece of tissue from your mouth for further examination under a microscope. If any abnormalities are found, further treatment may be necessary. Early detection through biopsies can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Root Canals

Oh, the dreaded root canal. A root canal is a type of oral surgery used to treat infected or damaged nerves within a tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected tissue and filling the empty space with a special material to prevent further infection.

Root canals are typically performed under local anesthesia and have a high success rate. Your dentist will want to address any signs of infection or damage in your teeth before they progress and require more invasive procedures. With proper aftercare, a root canal can greatly improve the health of your tooth and surrounding tissue. As with any other oral surgery, be sure to follow instructions before, during, and after from your dentist, such as someone at Jayhawk Dental, for best results.

Oral surgery covers a wide range of procedures that can greatly benefit your dental health. If you are experiencing any issues with your teeth or surrounding structures, consult with your dentist to determine if surgery is the right option for you. Remember, the key to successful oral surgery is finding a qualified and experienced dental professional that you trust. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have before undergoing any procedure. Your smile is worth it!