Oral Surgery Information from the Experts
Oral surgery describes any surgical procedure performed on your mouth, teeth, gums, and jawbone. It can be necessary for a wide range of dental procedures such as wisdom teeth extraction, dental implants, or treating oral cancer and other diseases. Even though oral surgery can provide tremendous benefits to your oral health and overall well-being, just the thought of it can be terrifying.
Often the best way to fight that fear is with knowledge. By fully understanding your procedure, recovery process, associated risks, and benefits, you can make an informed decision and be comfortable with your upcoming procedure.
What to Expect Before Having Oral Surgery
Before your oral surgery, you'll typically have a pre-operative appointment where your dental surgeon will explain the procedure and give instructions on preparing. This may include avoiding food or drink for a certain amount of time before the surgery, as well as taking medications prescribed to you. This appointment is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions.
Anesthesia
During the procedure, you'll be given anesthesia to numb the area or put you to sleep. Your surgeon will decide on the best option for you based on your medical history, the situation's complexity, and the treatment team's input.
There are various anesthesia options used for oral surgeries:
Local anesthesia may be used during your oral surgery to help numb the area being operated on and minimize pain.
General anesthesia may make you unconscious and unresponsive to pain during your operation.
Sedation may help you relax and manage anxiety during your procedure. It can come in different forms, such as oral medication, inhaled gas, or intravenous medication.
Beginning Surgery
Once you're under anesthesia, the doctor will begin your surgery. The specific steps of the procedure will depend on the type of surgery you're having. Depending on the procedure and your anesthesia, your surgeon may keep you updated throughout the surgery.
Once the surgery is completed, you'll be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia and given instructions for post-operative care.
The Oral Surgery Recovery Process
The recovery timeline can vary depending on the type of procedure and your individual health, but it's typical to experience some discomfort and swelling. Your dentist or surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage this discomfort. Sometimes, applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and ease pain.
You must take care of yourself during recovery to promote healing and help prevent complications. It's important to follow any additional instructions given by your dental surgeon, such as avoiding certain activities or taking medications as prescribed.
Additionally, you may want to eat soft foods to avoid irritating the surgical site and make it easier to swallow. Straws should also be avoided, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.
You'll also need to attend any follow-up appointments monitor your healing and remove any stitches. By taking care of yourself and following your dentist or surgeon's instructions, you can promote healing and minimize the risk of complications.
The Risks and Benefits of Oral Surgery
Some risks associated with oral surgery include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. While these risks are relatively rare, they can occur in some cases. Your dentist or surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure and take steps to minimize them.
On the other hand, there are many potential benefits to oral surgery. Depending on the procedure, you may experience improved oral health and function, enhanced appearance, and relief from pain or discomfort. For example, wisdom tooth extraction can prevent overcrowding and alleviate pain, while dental implants can replace missing teeth and restore your smile.
It's important to discuss any concerns you may have with your oral surgeon before the procedure. They can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits based on your individual health and circumstances. By fully understanding the risks and benefits of oral surgery, you can make an informed decision and feel confident in your choice.