The term oral surgery may sound scary. It may make you think that there is something wrong with your tooth and that things are about to get dreadful. You imagine that the procedure is risky, painful, and costly, but that cannot be further from the truth.

 

Oral surgery is quite common. The procedure treats dental issues that many people experience, such as tooth loss, implants, and jaw problems. It is not something to be scared of because dentists use anesthesia during the procedure. That way, you will not feel much as your dentist treats your dental problem.

 

Learning more about oral surgery can help answer some of your questions about the procedure and help you prepare.

 

What Is Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery is a term that refers to any surgery done on your teeth, jaw, or gums. Depending on the type of oral surgery you need, a general dentist or an oral surgeon may perform it.

 

Usually, dentists can handle most dental problems. If they think you should see an oral surgeon, they will suggest one.

 

Types of Oral Surgery

Again, oral surgery involves any procedure done on your teeth, gums, or jaw. These include tooth extractions, root canals, dental implants, gum grafts, jawbone grafts, corrective jaw operations, and sleep apnea surgery.

Wisdom teeth extraction is the most common type of oral surgery. The surgical procedure is the one that many patients have at some point in life.

When Do You Need Oral Surgery?

If you have problems with your teeth, gums, or jaw, talk to your dentist. Your dentist will examine the issues and explain what you need to do.

 

Oral surgery becomes an option when your dentist or dental surgeon determines it is the only solution to your dental problem. This is particularly so after you have tried alternative treatments without success.

 

What Happens Before, During, and After Oral Surgery?

Before the procedure, your dentist will examine your oral health. That may involve taking dental scans and X-rays for a detailed look at your teeth, gums, jawbone, and nerves. This information will help your dentist create a suitable treatment plan for you.

During surgery, your surgeon will sedate you to make you comfortable before starting the procedure. How long your surgery will take will depend on the type of oral surgery you need. Tooth extraction can last about 30 minutes, whereas a more complex surgery, such as a sinus lift, may last up to three hours.

After your oral surgery, your surgeon will give you post-surgery care instructions. These instructions will help protect you from bleeding, developing an infection, and other possible complications.

 

How to Prepare for Oral Surgery

Like most surgical procedures, you need to prepare for your oral surgery. During your consultation, your surgeon will give you some general guidelines to help you prepare. Some of these may include:

 

• Taking some medication before the surgery
   

• Fasting - You may need to avoid eating or drinking water a few hours before your surgery. That lowers your risk of developing complications from anesthesia. If you need water to take your medicines while fasting, you can take small sips
   

• Bringing a family member or a friend to drive you home after the surgery
  
  
   

For more on what to know before getting oral surgery, visit Marine Park Periodontics & Implantology at our office in Brooklyn, New York. You can call us at (646) 863-4810 to book an appointment today.