Oral Surgery: What You Need To Know
Oral Health Blog

Oral Surgery: What You Need To Know

Oral surgery is a procedure that may be necessary to correct a range of oral problems. In this article, we will discuss the different types of oral surgery, the possible benefits and risks associated with each, and what you should do if you are considering undergoing oral surgery.

Types of Oral Surgery

There are many types of oral surgery, and each one has its own benefits and drawbacks. Here is a brief overview of some of the most common procedures:

Dental implant surgery:

This is a popular procedure that replaces teeth that have been lost or damaged. Implants are made from metal or plastic and are cemented into the tooth structure. They can last for many years and are usually very reliable.

Dentures:

Dental implants can be replaced by removable dentures, which look and feel like your natural teeth. Dentures need to be replaced every five to seven years, but they are much more comfortable than implants and often less expensive.

Gum surgery:

Gum surgery may be necessary if you have severe tooth decay or gum inflammation. It may also be used to correct other issues with your smile, such as misaligned teeth or crooked teeth. Gum surgery can be done in several different ways, including dental extractions (removing all the visible teeth), root canal treatment (cleaning out the roots of the tooth), and gingivectomy (removal of all or part of the gums).

Oral cancer:

Oral cancer is a serious problem that can occur. There are many types of oral surgery that can be performed to treat oral cancer. Some common procedures include surgery to remove the tumor, surgery to remove the surrounding tissue that may have been affected by the tumor, Radiation therapy, and Chemotherapy.

What happens during surgery?

An oral surgery procedure can be broken down into two main categories: restorative and corrective. Restorative oral surgeries are performed to restore lost teeth, correct TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems, or improve the appearance of a smile. Corrective oral surgeries are performed to remove malignant tumors, reposition teeth, or correct other abnormalities that may be causing discomfort or impairment.

During restorative oral surgery, the surgeon will remove all of the diseased, missing, or damaged teeth and replace them with dental implants or prosthetic devices. If necessary, the surgeon may also reconstruct the jawbone using cadaver grafts or bone from another part of the body.

In a corrective oral surgery, the goal is to return the patient's mouth to its original appearance and function. This can be done by removing malignant tumors, repositioning teeth, or correcting other abnormalities that are causing discomfort or impairment.

Implant-based dentistry is becoming increasingly popular because it provides superior long-term results compared to traditional dental treatments such as fillings and crowns. Implants are made of titanium alloy and are designed to last up to 10 years without requiring any maintenance. 

Post-operative care

When you come home from surgery, your oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to take care of your mouth. Here are the basics:

  • Wash your mouth and teeth with warm water and toothpaste twice a day, using a soft-bristled brush. Spit out the suds.
  • Avoid chewing hard foods or drinks that have hard pieces in them. Bite off small pieces instead.
  • Avoid talking, eating, or drinking for at least four hours after surgery. The swelling in your mouth may make these activities difficult or impossible.
  • Drink plenty of fluids (about eight cups per day) to help prevent infection and hydrate your body. If you experience pain, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing, talk to your doctor.

Recovery time

Recovery time after oral surgery can vary depending on the procedure and the person. Most people report feeling painless and experiencing minimal swelling within a day or two after surgery. Patients should refrain from eating hard foods for at least six hours after surgery to avoid any potential complications. Most people feel relatively well within a week or two and should start using oral medications as prescribed by their doctor.

If you have undergone oral surgery, it is important to take care of your oral health. One way to do this is to use a water flosser. B. Weiss water flossers are the best option because they are gentle on your gums and teeth. They also have a wide range of pressure levels so you can adjust them to fit your needs.

Potential side effects of oral surgery

When it comes to oral surgery, potential side effects can vary depending on the procedure being performed. Some common side effects of oral surgery include pain, bleeding, difficulty speaking, infection, swelling, and changes in taste or smell. Additionally, some procedures may result in temporary or permanent changes to a person’s appearance. If you are considering oral surgery, be sure to speak with your doctor about any potential side effects and possible treatments.

Conclusion

If you are planning on having oral surgery, it is important to know the basics so that you can make an informed decision. By reading this article before your surgery, you will be better equipped to make a decision that is best for you and your health.

 

Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.