Oral surgery sounds intense, right? It’s more routine than you think. Surprised? Most people need oral surgery at some point in life. Tooth pain, jaw issues, or missing teeth often lead to oral surgery.
Ignoring dental problems can make oral surgery necessary—and urgent. Oral surgery today is safer, quicker, and more comfortable than ever. Think it’s rare? Oral surgery is more common than root canals or fillings.
An oral surgeon handles issues beyond your dentist’s scope. This blog highlights common reasons people need oral surgery. You’ll find answers, reassurance, and helpful tips straight from the oral surgery playbook.
Major Reasons for Oral Surgery
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often become problematic during late teens or early twenties. They may grow at odd angles, push against other teeth, or remain trapped below the gums.
Common signs include jaw pain, swelling, bad breath, or infections. Delaying removal increases the risk of gum disease or cysts. Oral surgery involves numbing the area and removing the teeth safely.
Post-surgery, expect some swelling and soreness for a few days. Recovery is usually quick with proper care from your oral surgeon.
Dental Implants
Missing or damaged teeth may require dental implants for long-term function and aesthetics. Implants offer a durable, natural-looking solution compared to bridges or dentures. They preserve jawbone health and restore full bite strength.
An oral surgeon inserts a titanium post into the jawbone, acting as an artificial root. After healing, a crown is placed, completing the tooth restoration. Though it takes several months, oral surgery ensures stability and lasting results. Implants help prevent bone loss and maintain your smile’s structure.
Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Jaw misalignment can cause bite issues, speech problems, and facial imbalance. Injuries or congenital defects may also require corrective jaw surgery. This type of oral surgery improves chewing, speaking, and overall jaw function.
Patients often experience improved breathing and reduced TMJ symptoms post-surgery. Orthodontists and oral surgeons collaborate to ensure optimal jaw alignment. The process may include braces before and after the surgery. Though extensive, jaw surgery dramatically improves both appearance and oral health.
Tooth Extractions (Non-Wisdom)
Not all teeth can be saved, especially those damaged by severe decay or trauma. Crowded teeth might also need removal before orthodontic treatment. Simple extractions are quick and involve minimal healing.
Surgical extractions are required for broken, impacted, or deeply rooted teeth. An oral surgeon ensures the tooth is removed safely with minimal discomfort. Prompt extraction helps prevent infection, shifting teeth, and further dental issues. Recovery usually includes a few days of rest and soft foods.
Treatment of Infections or Abscesses
Infections below the gumline or inside the bone can’t be ignored. They may cause swelling, intense pain, or even fever. Oral surgery becomes necessary when antibiotics can’t fully treat the problem.
An oral surgeon drains the abscess and removes infected tissue. This prevents the infection from spreading to other areas or organs. Early intervention through surgery relieves pain and promotes healing. Ignoring it could lead to serious systemic complications.
Biopsies or Lesion Removal
Strange bumps, sores, or patches in your mouth? Don’t wait it out. These could signal early signs of oral cancer or other diseases. Oral surgeons perform biopsies to determine if the tissue is harmless or malignant.
Removing suspicious lesions helps with both diagnosis and treatment. Quick action often leads to a better prognosis. Even small changes in the mouth deserve professional attention. Your oral surgeon can help ensure your long-term health and peace of mind.
Bone Grafting
Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw. This makes it hard to place dental implants later. Bone grafting rebuilds the lost structure, making future oral surgery possible. Grafts may come from your own body or a synthetic source.
Patients with gum disease or long-term tooth loss often need this procedure. Oral surgeons carefully place the graft, allowing the bone to regenerate. It’s a critical step toward restoring oral function and appearance.
Oral surgery isn’t something to fear—it’s often the best path to lasting dental health. From tooth pain to jaw alignment, oral surgery addresses issues effectively and safely. Early dental visits can catch problems before they require surgery.
Trust your oral surgeon to guide you with skill and care. Think you might need oral surgery? Contact our office for a consultation today. Your smile, comfort, and health are worth the professional attention.