When it comes to dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery sits at the intersection of dental care and medicine. This specialty focuses on diagnosing and surgically treating diseases, injuries, and defects in the hard and soft tissues of the oral (mouth) and maxillofacial (jaws and face) region. In this blog post, we'll give you an overview of common procedures, such as wisdom tooth removal, and what you can expect during your recovery process.
One of the most familiar oral surgery procedures is the extraction of wisdom teeth, but the field encompasses a wide range of treatments. Here are a few common procedures:
Wisdom Teeth Removal: These 'third molars' often don't have enough room to emerge or grow normally. When they are misaligned or impacted, they can cause pain and other problems. In such cases, extraction becomes necessary.
Dental Implants: Oral surgeons play a crucial role in the dental implant process, typically performing the initial tooth extractions and implant placements. They ensure the implant is correctly placed in the jawbone for optimal function and aesthetics.
Corrective Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery: This surgery corrects a wide range of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities, including misalignment of jaws and teeth, which can improve chewing, speaking, and breathing.
TMJ Disorders: Some temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be treated with medications or physical therapy. But in severe cases, surgical treatment may be required.
Post-operative care is crucial for healing and minimizes the risk of complications. Here's what you can typically expect:
Rest: Rest is vital following surgery. You should limit your activities for a few days to allow your body to heal.
Diet: After most oral surgeries, sticking to soft foods and liquids is recommended. Avoid hot foods or drinks until the local anesthetic has completely worn off to prevent burns or injury.
Pain management: Some discomfort is expected after surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with information about over-the-counter medications or prescribe stronger pain relief if necessary.
Swelling: It's normal to experience some swelling after surgery. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce this.
Oral care: It's essential to keep your mouth clean after surgery. You will be given specific post-operative instructions about brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash.
While oral surgery might seem intimidating, rest assured that as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, our training and expertise enable us to perform these procedures with the highest standard of care. At Clove Dental, we prioritize patient comfort and safety, and we strive to ensure every patient is fully informed about their procedure and recovery. If you're facing the prospect of oral surgery and have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to guide you through your journey towards better oral health.