Oral surgery can be a daunting thought, but it’s often a necessary step in achieving optimal dental health. Whether you need wisdom teeth removed, dental implants placed, or corrective jaw surgery, understanding the process can help ease your mind.
At Sunderland Dentists, we offer a full range of oral surgery procedures to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.
What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery involves any surgical procedure performed in or around your mouth and jaw. These surgeries are performed by oral surgeons who are specially trained to treat complex dental issues. From removing impacted teeth to reconstructing parts of the jaw, oral surgery is a critical component of maintaining both your dental health and overall well-being.
Common Oral Surgery Procedures
There are various types of oral surgery, each tailored to treat specific dental issues. Below, we’ll cover some of the most common procedures we perform at Sunderland Dentists.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
One of the most common oral surgeries is the removal of wisdom teeth. These teeth often become impacted or do not have enough space to emerge properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and even infection, so removal is often necessary.
Dental Implants
If you’re missing a tooth or teeth, dental implants offer a long-lasting solution. Implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, providing a stable base for a replacement tooth or bridge. This procedure involves a few stages, including the initial implant placement and then fitting the replacement tooth once healing is complete.
Tooth Extractions
Not all tooth extractions are as simple as pulling out a loose tooth. Sometimes, surgical intervention is required, especially for teeth that are broken, severely decayed, or impacted. Oral surgery for tooth extractions ensures that difficult teeth are removed safely and effectively.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Also known as orthognathic surgery, corrective jaw surgery is used to realign the jaw when it is uneven or misaligned. This can help with chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Corrective jaw surgery is a more complex procedure but can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life.
What to Expect During Oral Surgery
Understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety you may have about oral surgery.
Consultation and Evaluation
Before any surgery, you’ll have a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. During this appointment, they will assess your dental condition, review any necessary X-rays, and determine the best course of action. This is also the time to ask any questions you may have about the procedure.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you’ll likely receive some form of anaesthesia or sedation, depending on the complexity of the procedure. This will ensure you remain comfortable throughout the process. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions to follow before and after surgery.
Recovery Process
Recovery from oral surgery varies depending on the type of procedure. For less complex surgeries, like wisdom tooth removal, you might be back to your regular routine within a few days. More involved surgeries, such as jaw realignment, may require a longer recovery period.
Aftercare for Oral Surgery
Post-operative care is critical to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions will make the recovery process smoother.
Pain Management
It’s common to experience some discomfort after oral surgery. Your dentist will provide pain relief options, which may include over-the-counter medications or a prescription. Ice packs can also help reduce swelling and numb the affected area.
Diet Adjustments
In the days following surgery, you’ll likely need to stick to a soft food diet. Avoid anything that requires extensive chewing or might irritate the surgical site. Smoothies, soups, and mashed vegetables are good options. Gradually, as you heal, you can reintroduce more solid foods.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean after surgery is crucial to avoid infection. However, you’ll need to be gentle around the surgical site. Your dentist may recommend rinsing with a saltwater solution instead of brushing the area directly.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, oral surgery comes with some risks. However, complications are rare, especially when the procedure is performed by a skilled oral surgeon.
Infection
One of the most common risks is infection at the surgical site. Keeping your mouth clean and following your dentist’s aftercare instructions will help reduce this risk.
Nerve Damage
Some oral surgeries, especially those involving wisdom teeth or the jaw, carry a slight risk of nerve damage. This could lead to numbness in the lips, tongue, or chin. In most cases, any numbness is temporary, but it’s important to discuss this potential risk with your surgeon beforehand.
Dry Socket
For tooth extractions, particularly wisdom teeth, one of the most common complications is a dry socket. This occurs when the blood clot that forms after the tooth is removed becomes dislodged, exposing the underlying bone. Dry socket can be quite painful, but your dentist can treat it with a medicated dressing.
How to Prepare for Oral Surgery
Preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience. Here’s what you can do to get ready.
Arrange Transportation
If you’re undergoing a procedure that requires sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from the surgery. It’s important not to drive yourself, as sedation can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Plan for Recovery Time
Depending on the complexity of your surgery, you may need to take a few days off work or avoid strenuous activity. Make sure to plan ahead so you can rest and heal properly.
Why Choose Sunderland Dentists for Your Oral Surgery?
At Sunderland Dentists, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, compassionate care for all our patients. Our team of experienced oral surgeons is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
From the initial consultation to aftercare, we’re with you every step of the way.
Conclusion
Oral surgery may seem intimidating, but with the right preparation and a trusted dental team, you can navigate the process with ease. Whether it’s a simple extraction or a more complex procedure like dental implants, taking care of your oral health is always worth the effort.
At Sunderland Dentists, we’re here to answer any questions you have about oral surgery and to ensure that you receive the best care possible in Sunderland.
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