Oral surgery can help address various issues affecting the mouth, teeth, and jaw. It helps improve oral health and address complex dental problems. It is essential to understand what to expect when considering oral surgery.

The Importance of Oral Surgery
 

Oral surgery serves multiple purposes. These include alleviating pain and improving the appearance of your smile. It also helps improve oral function. The surgical procedure can be necessary for impacted wisdom teeth, facial trauma, and jaw misalignment. Corrective procedures for conditions like dental implant placement may also need oral surgery. Patients can achieve improved oral health and enhanced comfort by undergoing oral surgery.

Preparation for Oral Surgery 

Proper preparation is essential before undergoing oral surgery. It helps ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Schedule a consultation with an oral surgeon to discuss your specific dental problem. They will help determine the best course of treatment. During the appointment, the surgeon will evaluate your oral health. They will review your medical history. They may also order additional tests or imaging if necessary.

Follow any preoperative instructions provided by your oral surgeon. It may include fasting for a particular period before surgery. You may also need to avoid some medications or supplements. Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility.

Communicate openly with your oral surgeon about any concerns. Doing so will help you better understand the procedure, risks, and benefits. It will let you manage your expectations better.

Who Performs Oral Surgery 

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform oral surgery. These dental specialists have extensive training beyond dental school. The training focuses on surgical techniques for the mouth, face, and jaw. They possess expertise in different procedures. 

These include tooth extractions and dental implant placement. They also include corrective jaw surgery and facial trauma construction. It is vital to seek treatment from a qualified and experienced oral surgeon. Doing so will help ensure optimal results.

What to Expect During Oral Surgery
 

Your oral surgeon will provide anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the complexity of the surgery. It will also depend on your personal preferences. Your surgeon will then perform the necessary surgical steps. These include incisions, bone reshaping, tooth extraction, or implant placement. The surgery length will vary with the complexity of the procedure.

Recovery Tips After Oral Surgery 

Recovery following oral surgery is a crucial phase. It requires proper care to promote healing and minimize discomfort. Carefully adhere to postoperative instructions from your oral surgeon. These instructions may include dietary restrictions and pain management guidelines. They also entail oral hygiene practices and follow-up appointments.

You may experience some swelling, bruising, and pain after the surgery. Take prescribed pain medications as directed. Apply ice packs to the affected areas to reduce swelling. Avoid using a straw and consuming hot foods and beverages. Ensure you also avoid smoking. These can interfere with the healing process.

Stick to a soft or liquid diet for a few days following the surgery to avoid chewing on the surgical site. Incorporate soups, smoothies, yogurt, and scrambled eggs into your diet. Maintain good oral hygiene, but be cautious around the surgical area. Gently brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding the surgical site. Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution to keep the area clean.

Allow yourself enough time to rest and recover after oral surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, exercise, and heavy lifting for the first few days. Get plenty of rest to aid the healing process.

Contact your surgeon if you experience any concerning symptoms. These may include excessive bleeding, severe pain, and prolonged swelling. They will give you immediate guidance and assistance.

For more about oral surgery, visit Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry in Falls Church, Virginia. Call (703) 534-6226 to book an appointment today.