What every family should know
Many of our patients—adults and children alike—feel nervous when they hear they may need a surgical dental procedure. However, oral surgery is more common and more routine than many realize. These procedures are performed every day across the country and are vital for maintaining both oral health and overall wellness.
In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll walk you through some of the most common types of oral surgeries, what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure, and how to prepare. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s wisdom teeth or someone dealing with a painful tooth issue, this guide is for you.
1. Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are by far the most common type of oral surgery. While general dentists can often remove teeth, particularly when they are fully erupted and healthy, surgical extractions are needed when a tooth is impacted, infected, or fractured below the gumline.
Reasons for Extraction:
- Severe tooth decay
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Overcrowding before orthodontic treatment
- Gum disease leading to loose teeth
- Broken or cracked teeth that cannot be restored
The procedure typically involves local anesthesia to numb the area, though sedation options may be available. Recovery usually takes a few days, with pain managed through over-the-counter medications or prescriptions.
2. Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. For many, there’s simply not enough space in the jaw for them to come in properly. This can lead to pain, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth.
Why It’s Needed:
- Impacted (trapped in jaw or gums)
- Infected or partially erupted
- Misalignment or pressure on adjacent teeth
- Risk of cysts or tumors
Wisdom teeth removal is often performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity. Most patients return to normal activities within 3–5 days, though complete healing takes longer.
3. Dental Implants
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants are a permanent solution. Implants involve placing a titanium post into the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture.
Ideal Candidates:
- Adults with missing teeth
- Healthy gums and adequate bone density
- Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking
- Commitment to good oral hygiene
The process takes several months, from surgical placement to final restoration. While it’s a longer road, implants are valued for their durability, functionality, and natural appearance.
4. Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a common procedure for patients who have experienced bone loss in the jaw. It’s often performed before placing dental implants to ensure there’s enough structure to support them.
When It’s Needed:
- Following tooth extraction
- Advanced gum disease
- Trauma or injury to the jaw
- Natural bone deterioration over time
Bone can be taken from the patient (autograft), a donor, or a synthetic source. Recovery varies but typically involves some swelling and discomfort. The graft needs time to integrate with the natural bone, often several months.
5. Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery)
Sometimes, a root canal is not enough to treat an infected tooth. If the infection persists, an apicoectomy may be required. This involves removing the tip of the tooth’s root and sealing it to prevent further infection.
Who Might Need It:
- Patients with persistent pain or infection after a root canal
- Teeth with complex root structures
- When retreatment via root canal isn’t feasible
This is a microsurgical procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. Recovery is usually straightforward, and many patients return to normal activities the next day.
6. Frenectomy
A frenectomy removes or modifies the frenum—a small fold of tissue in the mouth. This is a particularly common procedure in pediatric dentistry.
Reasons for a Frenectomy:
- Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), limiting speech or breastfeeding
- Lip-tie affecting oral hygiene or orthodontic development
- Interference with denture fit
Modern frenectomies are often performed using lasers, which reduce bleeding and discomfort. Healing is typically quick and uncomplicated.
7. Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Corrective jaw surgery is performed to address misaligned jaws, severe bite issues, or abnormalities that can’t be corrected with braces alone. This type of surgery often improves speaking, chewing, and breathing.
Candidates:
- Patients with overbite, underbite, or open bite
- Sleep apnea due to jaw position
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Jaw injury or congenital abnormalities
Performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, jaw surgery is a more extensive procedure that often requires a hospital setting and several weeks of recovery. The results, however, are life-changing for many patients.
Preparing for Oral Surgery
Your dentist will evaluate your needs, take X-rays, and develop a treatment plan. Make sure to inform your dentist of any medical conditions or medications you are taking during this process. Before the procedure, follow any pre-operative instructions as directed. This may include fasting before sedation, arranging a ride home, or avoiding certain medications.
Recovery Tips and Aftercare
- Rest and Recovery: After your surgery, take time to rest. Avoid strenuous activities, and keep your head elevated when sleeping to reduce swelling.
- Pain Management: Utilize prescribed medications as directed to control pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also be effective unless advised otherwise by your dentist.
- Ice Application: To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack to the affected area on and off (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours.
- Dietary Adjustments: Initially, stick to soft foods like soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the mouth.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth with a saline solution (warm water with salt). Avoid vigorous rinsing or using mouthwash as healing occurs.
- No Smoking or Alcohol: Both can hinder the healing process. Steer clear of smoking and alcohol for at least a week post-surgery.
- Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to allow your dentist to monitor healing and address any concerns.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Be vigilant for signs of infection or complications, like excessive bleeding, severe swelling, or fever, and contact us immediately if they occur.
Trust Our Local North Carolina Family Dental Practice
At our practice, we believe in making oral surgery as comfortable and stress-free as possible. With modern techniques, sedation options, and an experienced dental team, most procedures are quick, effective, and lead to healthier smiles. If you or a loved one has been told oral surgery might be necessary, rest assured you’re not alone—and we’re here to help.
