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What are the different types of oral surgeries, and how to prepare?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery refers to the treatment and surgical procedures of teeth, gums, and jaws, including the jaw joint. Various procedures come under the specialty of oral surgery. This may include teeth extractions, dental implant placement, fixing broken jawbone, etc. If you are curious to know more about different oral surgeries and how you can prepare for them, read ahead.
Conditions that require oral surgery
There are certain situations and dental disorders that mandate oral surgery. This may include -
Damaged and painful teeth
Every dentist will try to save a tooth; however, there are times when the tooth is beyond conservative treatment approaches like dental fillings and root canal treatment. This can happen with a severely infected or fractured tooth. In many cases, teeth are extracted when root canal treatment fails to provide relief. In such cases, the course of action is generally tooth extraction. Teeth extractions are one of the most commonly performed oral surgical procedures for decayed, damaged, and painful teeth.
Impacted tooth
At times, a tooth may not erupt into the oral cavity due to a lack of space. The tooth remains embedded in the jawbone under the gums and becomes impacted in such situations. Impacted teeth can cause infections, pain, and even a poor bite. The most commonly impacted tooth happens to be the third molars, commonly called the wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth have to be removed via surgical extractions as they impair oral and overall health. If you have trouble with your wisdom tooth, schedule an appointment with us at Traditions Dental and get it checked out.
Preparation for orthodontic treatment
Teeth become crowded when there is a lack of space in the mouth for their proper eruption. Crowded teeth can be a reason for speech impediments, lead to chewing difficulties and make you susceptible to dental diseases. In addition, they compromise smile and can be a source of anxiety for some. If you have crowded teeth and opt for orthodontic treatment, there are high chances your orthodontist will advise you to go for a tooth removal.
Most commonly extracted teeth for orthodontic treatments happen to be first or second premolars. This is done to gain space in the mouth to allow the remaining teeth to straighten and come in the proper position.
Preparation for denture
Dentures require a certain bone height to ensure their proper placement. In situations where the jawbone height is lost, oral surgical procedures like bone grafting may be carried out. In some cases, there might be gum overgrowth that needs to be removed for successful denture placement. At times, root pieces may remain inside the jawbone, and they must be removed to allow for proper and comfortable denture placement. Therefore, oral surgery becomes crucial to prepare your mouth before denture placement.
Dental implants
If you have a missing tooth or several missing teeth, you may benefit from dental implants. Dental implants happen to the most superior and elegant way of replacing missing teeth. They are titanium bases surgical screws that are fixed into the jawbone via a tiny incision on the gums. Dental implants form the foundation over which dental crowns, bridges, and dentures can be fixed. If you wish to have a permanent solution to your missing teeth, then schedule an appointment with us at Traditions Dental today.
Jaw-joint disorder
The jaw joint is located in front of your ear and can be involved in certain disorders which give rise to pain in chewing, speech, and even at rest. The pain is often debilitating and restricts jaw movements. Conditions like teeth grinding can also be a cause of jaw-joint disorders. In such situations, oral surgical interventions at Hoschton, GA can provide you relief and ensure the return of normal function.
Jaw fractures
Jaw fractures can result from injury or trauma to the face and require emergency oral surgical treatment.
Tumors
Oral cancers and various benign tumors of the mouth require surgical removal. These procedures are often complex and need oral surgery to avoid further progression. If you notice a swelling or an ulcer on the gums, cheek, or tongue that is not healing and grows, it may signal oral cancer. Consult our board-certified dental surgeon at Traditions Dental today to get it checked and treated.
How to prepare for your oral surgery?
Getting you to know that you require oral surgery can fill you with anxiety, stress, and even fear. As dental professionals, we understand this and encourage our patients to talk to us about any concerns. You can also take specific steps to prepare for your oral surgery and get the right mindset to ensure a comfortable oral surgery experience. Read ahead as we discuss some ways you can prepare for oral surgery.
1) Talk to us
If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to us and let us know. Many people have crippling dental anxiety and fear, making dental visits exceptionally difficult. If this is the case with you, please inform our staff, and we will take added measures to ensure a calm and comfortable environment.
2) Discuss anesthesia
Most oral surgeries are performed under local anesthesia or conscious sedation. You will be discharged shortly after your procedure. However, some people may experience residual effects of anesthesia long after the procedure, and driving alone is not considered safe. Ask a family member or a friend you accompany you to the clinic on the day of your surgery. It is also a good idea to have some stay with you 1-2 after surgery in case any emergency comes up.
3) Get to know your surgery
Ask us or read the blogs on our website regarding your surgery; it will give you an idea about what to expect. This removes the fear of the unknown and alleviates any anxiety you may have.
4) Food and liquids
You may be asked not to consume any food or liquid for 8 hours before your oral surgery procedure if it is being performed under general anesthesia. However, if your surgery is under local anesthesia, make sure you eat some calorie-dense and healthy food 2 hours before the procedure.
5) Oral hygiene
Do not skip on your oral hygiene routine as it can lead to infections. Brush and floss to ensure your mouth is clean to avoid bacterial infections.
6) Medications
If you have been prescribed medications, please ensure you take them on time and complete the course.
7) Avoid alcohol and smoking
Avoid consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before your oral surgery. Do not smoke or consume tobacco before your surgery.
8) What to wear?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting, and breathable clothes on the day of your surgery. It is also wise not to apply make-up or wear any tight jewelry or watches on the day of your surgery. The goal is to make sure you stay comfortable and breathe easy.
We hope this blog answered some of your oral surgery questions. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us at Traditions Dental. Our team will be there to assist you in your journey to better oral and overall health.
If you have questions about oral surgery, call us today 706-658-2383. If you have any additional questions about your oral hygiene, please feel free to contact us at Traditions Dental. To learn more about Traditions Dental visit our About Us page. For more tips and information feel free to follow us on social media on IG @traditionsdental and Facebook @traditionsdental.
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