Not every visit to an oral health professional is a simple x-ray and teeth cleaning. Many patients need a variety of oral surgery procedures in order to maintain or restore a healthy smile.
According to statistics, there are more than 4,576 oral surgeons in the United States today.
So, what are some of the most common oral surgery procedures available? Read on to learn more about these options and what they can do for you.
1. Tooth Extraction
Your dentist might tell you that they need to “pull a tooth.” Tooth removal or extraction is by far the most common form of oral surgery performed for patients.
If you need a tooth extraction, it’s usually because the tooth cannot be saved by other means. This might be due to severe tooth decay caused by untreated cavities or an abscessed tooth.
2. Dental Bone Graft
If your dentist notices bone loss in the jaw, you could be eligible for a dental bone graft. This procedure restores the volume and density in the jawbone and could also be part of the prep for dental implants.
A missing tooth can cause bone deterioration over time since there’s no root to stimulate the nerves. Since you don’t feel any pain, you don’t notice the jawbone weakening or deteriorating until you have an exam.
3. Dental Implants
A dental implant is one of the most common and reliable tooth replacement options. Small threaded posts made of durable medical-grade titanium are embedded into the jaw.
This post replaces your tooth’s original root. Once the implant completely heals, a special dental crown, bridge, or denture is added to the post so that your smile is restored.
4. Corrective Jaw Surgery
Patients who suffer from jaw pain or a condition called TMJ dysfunction (TMD) may need corrective jaw surgery. This procedures addresses abnormalities found in the jaw bone.
Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend this procedure to help with chewing function or to address jaw and teeth misalignment. Whatever the reason, this surgery provides relief from jaw pain.
5. Wisdom Teeth Removal
Your wisdom teeth or “third molars” are located near the back of the jaw and usually develop between the ages of 17 and 35. If the surrounding teeth don’t have enough room to move, the wisdom teeth can become impacted.
Impacted wisdom teeth typically result in severe pain and discomfort. A wisdom teeth removal is more intense than a standard tooth extraction because the entire tooth and root must be removed.
Restore Your Smile Today
Talk to your dentist if you need to prepare for oral surgery. Remember these five common oral surgery procedures and ask your dentist if you think you might be a candidate.
If you need oral surgery or dental implants, contact the staff at Synergy Oral Surgery Center today to find out how we can assist you.
