What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the mouth, jaws, and face. It is a relatively new field of dentistry, having only been recognized as a specialty in the early 20th century.
Oral surgeons are trained in both dental and medical school to perform complex surgeries of the mouth, jaws, and face. Some common oral surgeries include wisdom tooth extraction, dental implants, and cleft palate surgery.
Who are oral surgeons?
Oral surgeons are dental professionals who specialize in surgical procedures of the mouth, teeth, and jaws. They are trained to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the mouth, teeth, and jaws, as well as perform surgery on these structures.
Oral surgeons typically complete four years of dental school followed by four years of residency training.
Why oral surgeries are done?
There are many reasons why oral surgeries are done. Some of the most common reasons include: removing wisdom teeth, placing dental implants, correcting a malocclusion (misaligned bite), and treating periodontal disease.
Oral surgery can also be done for cosmetic reasons, such as to reshape the gums or jaws. Whatever the reason may be, oral surgery is a very important part of oral health care.
What are the treatments that come under oral surgery?
Below are some of the common dental treatments that come under oral surgery:
- Tooth extractions
- Dental implants, bridges, and fillings.
- Root canals
- Periodontal treatment
- Laser-assisted procedures.
- TMJ disorders.
- Bone grafting for implants
- Impacted wisdom tooth
- Cosmetic dental procedures
- Mandibular/ maxillary reconstruction.
- Oral cancer screening and treatment.
- Submandibular gland removal.
- Taking Biopsies
- Reconstructive surgery.
- Sublingual gland removal.
- Orthodontic treatment.
Are there any pre-surgery things to take care of before my oral surgery?
Yes, there are a few things you need to do before your oral surgery.
There are a few things you’ll need to take care of before your oral surgery. First, you’ll need to make sure you have someone to drive you home after the surgery is complete.
You’ll also need to avoid eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before the surgery.
Also, you need to eat a light meal before the procedure.
Additionally, be sure to brush your teeth and rinse with mouthwash before arriving for your procedure. Lastly, wear comfortable clothing that won’t irritate your mouth after the surgery.
Are there any post-surgery things to take care of?
Take rest
After your oral surgery, your dentist may advise you to take ample rest. This is because your body will need time to recover from the surgery.
During this time, it is important to avoid any strenuous activity or anything that could cause you to bleed. Taking it easy for a few days will help ensure a successful and speedy recovery.
Don’t brush
After your oral surgery, your dentist may advise you not to brush immediately after the surgery. This is because brushing can irritate the surgical site and cause bleeding. Instead, you should gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water. You can also use a soft toothbrush to lightly brush your teeth. Be sure to avoid the surgical site when brushing.
Don’t smoke
After your oral surgery, your dentist will likely advise you to avoid smoking. This is because smoking can irritate the surgical site and delay healing.
Additionally, smoking can increase your risk of developing an infection. So if you’re a smoker, it’s important to quit before your surgery and to avoid smoking for at least a few weeks afterward.
Don’t eat hard foods
Your dentist may advise you to avoid hard foods after your oral surgery. This is because hard foods can put pressure on your healing wound and cause pain.
Instead, try incorporating softer foods into your diet like cooked vegetables, soups, and mashed potatoes. By following your dentist’s advice, you can ensure a speedy and successful recovery.
Watch out for warning signs
After your oral surgery, your dentist may advise you to watch for any early warning signs. This is because some complications, such as infection, can occur after surgery.
Therefore, it is important to be aware of any changes in your mouth or throat, such as redness, swelling, or drainage. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your dentist right away.
Take painkillers
After your oral surgery, you must take painkillers prescribed by your dentist. These painkillers will help to ease any discomfort or pain you may be feeling. It is important to take them as directed by your dentist in order to ensure that your recovery is as smooth as possible.
Followup
After your oral surgery, you must regularly follow up with your dentist. This is important in order to ensure that your mouth is healing properly and that there are no complications.
During these follow-up visits, your dentist will check on your progress and make sure that you are on track to a full recovery.
