An oral surgeon is a dentist who specializes in surgery of the mouth, jaws, and face. They perform a wide range of procedures, including extractions, implants, gum grafts, and jaw surgery. Oral surgeons also treat diseases and injuries of the oral cavity, such as tumors, cysts, and infections.
Types of Oral Surgery Procedures
Some of the most common oral surgery procedures include:
Extractions: Removing teeth that are decayed, infected, or impacted.
Implants: Placing artificial tooth roots into the jawbone to support replacement teeth.
Gum grafts: Repairing or replacing gum tissue that has been lost due to disease, injury, or aging.
Jaw surgery: Repositioning the jaws to correct alignment problems or improve facial appearance.
Tumor removal: Removing benign or cancerous tumors of the mouth, jaws, or face.
Cyst removal: Removing cysts that develop in the mouth, jaws, or face.
Infection treatment: Treating infections of the mouth, jaws, or face.
When to See an Oral Surgeon
You should see an oral surgeon if you have any of the following conditions:
A tooth that is decayed, infected, or impacted.
Gum disease that has not responded to treatment by a dentist.
A missing tooth.
A jaw alignment problem.
A facial deformity.
A tumor or cyst in the mouth, jaws, or face.
An infection of the mouth, jaws, or face.
Finding an Oral Surgeon
You can find an oral surgeon by asking your dentist for a referral, or by searching online. When choosing an oral surgeon, be sure to ask about their experience, training, and fees.
Preparing for Oral Surgery
Your oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. These instructions may include:
Stopping smoking.
Avoiding aspirin and other blood thinners.
Following a special diet.
Taking antibiotics to prevent infection.
Recovery from Oral Surgery
Your recovery from oral surgery will vary depending on the type of procedure you have. However, most people experience some discomfort and swelling after surgery. Your oral surgeon will give you pain medication to help manage your pain. You may also need to apply ice to the area to reduce swelling.
FAQs about Oral Surgery
What are the risks of oral surgery?
The risks of oral surgery are generally minor, but they can include bleeding, infection, and nerve damage.
How long does oral surgery take?
The length of time for oral surgery varies depending on the type of procedure. However, most oral surgery procedures can be completed in a single appointment.
How much does oral surgery cost?
The cost of oral surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and the location of the surgery. However, oral surgery is typically covered by insurance.
Conclusion
Oral surgeons are highly trained professionals who can provide a wide range of services to improve your oral health. If you have any of the conditions listed above, or if you are simply concerned about your oral health, be sure to see an oral surgeon.
