Oral surgery can be an intimidating prospect, especially regarding impacted wisdom teeth. However, the process can be manageable and pain-free with proper preparation and care. Our latest guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of oral surgery for impacted wisdom teeth, including what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery near you is a common procedure that is used to remove impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop and often emerge in the late teenage years or early adulthood. Some individuals may experience impacted teeth, which prevents them from fully emerging from the gums. Oral surgery might be necessary to eliminate the pain, swelling, and infection that can result from this.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to impacted wisdom teeth, you may be a candidate for oral surgery. Here is a guide to help you understand what to expect during the procedure and how to care for your mouth afterwards.
Oral surgery involves various surgical procedures that are performed in the mouth, teeth, jaw, and gums. Some examples of surgeries that involve oral surgery are:
- Extraction of impacted wisdom teeth
- Dental implant surgery
- Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) to correct bite and jaw alignment issues
- Removal of tumours or cysts in the mouth or jaw
- Root canal surgery to remove infected tissue from the root of a tooth
- Corrective surgery for cleft lip and palate
- Utilizing oral surgical techniques like uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or maxillomandibular advancement for the treatment of sleep apnea (MMA)
Oral surgery is typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon with specialized training in surgical procedures involving the mouth, teeth, and jaws.
Why is oral surgery performed?
You could need oral surgery for several reasons. Your dentist near you can recommend you oral surgery for the following conditions.
- Severe tooth decay
- Broken teeth
- Impacted teeth
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Temporomandibular joint disorders
- Sleep apnea
- Noncancerous lump
- Missing teeth
Who Performs Oral Surgery?
The mouth, jaw, and cheeks are operated on by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The gums and bones that support your teeth are operated on by a periodontist or gum expert. Following graduation from dental school, periodontists and oral surgeons complete an extra three to four years of training.
Advantages
For optimal oral health and function, your teeth, gums, and jaw joints must all operate in a coordinated way. The main objective of dental surgery is to resolve any problem that adversely impacts your health or quality of life.
Risk and Complications
You should be aware of any risks and issues related to oral surgery as you would with any treatment. Here are some risks and complications involved following oral surgery.
- Infection
- Dry socket
- Sensitivity and numbness
- Tooth root fragments
- Sinus
- Injury to adjacent teeth
Before the Surgery
Before your surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the location and position of your impacted teeth. They will also ask you about any medications you are currently taking and any health conditions you have.
You will likely be given instructions to follow before the surgery, such as avoiding food and drink for a certain period before the procedure, and arranging for someone to drive you home afterwards.
During the Surgery
The surgery is usually carried out while you are under local anesthesia so that you will be conscious but the impacted area will be numb. Your dentist or oral surgeon might also suggest sedation if you're feeling anxious or tense to calm you down.
To access the impacted tooth during the operation, the dentist or oral surgeon will create an incision in the gums. The tooth will then be gently extracted from the socket after any bone or tissue that is obstructing it has been removed. To speed up recovery, they may also choose to stitch the wound.
After the Surgery
After the surgery, you will be given instructions to follow for caring for your mouth as it heals. This may include:
- Applying an ice pack to your face to reduce swelling
- Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or chewy foods for a few days
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to promote healing
- Avoiding smoking or using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket
You may also be prescribed pain medication or antibiotics to help manage pain and prevent infection.
In most cases, the healing process takes about two weeks, during which time you should avoid physical activity and rest as much as possible. Your dentist or oral surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and ensure your mouth is healing properly.
Oral surgery for impacted wisdom teeth is a common procedure that can provide relief from pain and other symptoms. If you're experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, be sure to speak with our dentist in Red Deer to learn more about your options for treatment. With proper preparation and care, you can ensure a successful and comfortable recovery from your surgery. If you are looking for any type of oral surgery in Red Deer contact our experts or visit our dental clinic. To help you attain the smile you desire, we are happy to help and address all of your dental concerns and offer the best care possible.
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