The Different Approaches to Oral Surgery

Oral surgery is a branch of dental care that offers a wide range of procedures designed to address conditions and issues affecting the mouth, teeth, and jaw. These procedures can help maintain oral health and address complex dental problems. Understanding the different approaches to oral surgery can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment plans and take an active role in their oral health care.

Preventive oral surgery

Preventive oral surgery addresses potential issues before they become substantial oral health problems and require extensive treatment. For example, wisdom tooth extraction is considered a preventive oral surgery. When wisdom teeth (third molars) come in, they can become impacted and cause the following problems:

• Pain
• Trapping food and debris, which can increase the risk of tooth decay
• Infection or periodontal (gum) disease
• Damage to a nearby tooth or surrounding bone
• A cyst (fluid-filled sac) around the wisdom tooth
• Complications with teeth straightening treatments like braces

A dental professional will evaluate these teeth' positioning and determine whether extraction is necessary to prevent complications. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons recommends that most patients need all four of their third molars removed by young adulthood—late teens or early 20s—before the roots are fully formed to minimize complications.

Other preventative procedures include dental bone grafts to prepare for future dental implant placement. Bone grafting helps preserve the patient's bone structure after tooth loss, which reduces the risk of jawbone deterioration. These interventions are essential for maintaining long-term oral health.

Corrective oral surgery

Corrective oral surgery addresses structural issues in the mouth, jaw, or teeth that impact the function and appearance of the patient's teeth. For example, jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, corrects misaligned jaws. This procedure restores both the patient's bite and facial symmetry.

Another common corrective procedure is dental implant placement. Dental implants replace missing teeth with a durable and natural-looking alternative. This process typically involves the surgical placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root. After the implant heals and integrates with the bone (osseointegration) after several months, the dental professional will attach a crown or bridge to restore the appearance and function of the tooth.

Restorative oral surgery

Restorative oral surgery aims to repair damage caused by dental trauma, oral health complications, and other conditions. Tooth extractions are often performed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed beyond repair. They are seen as a last resort when more conservative options, such as dental fillings and crowns, are not enough to effectively treat the tooth. Dental professionals perform this procedure safely and efficiently to minimize the patient's discomfort and the risk of postoperative complications.

Another restorative oral surgery is gum surgery. This operation, also known as flap or pocket reduction surgery, addresses advanced gum disease to prevent further damage and stop its progression. While it is not a cure, it can help patients from experiencing severe complications, such as tooth loss and systemic health issues.

For patients who experience facial injuries, oral surgeons can also perform reconstructive surgeries to repair fractures or lacerations. These procedures restore the patient's facial function and appearance, allowing patients to regain confidence and comfort in their daily lives.

Cosmetic oral surgery

Cosmetic oral surgery enhances the appearance of the teeth, gums, or jaw. Procedures such as gum contouring reshape uneven gum lines, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. Similarly, corrective jaw surgeries often have a cosmetic component. Aligning the jaw in its proper position can improve the proportions of the patient's face.

Another example of cosmetic oral surgery is the removal of oral cysts or benign growths. While these procedures are often medically necessary, they can also enhance the appearance of the patient's smile and their overall health and comfort.

Emergency oral surgery

Emergency oral surgery addresses urgent conditions that require immediate attention. These situations often arise from accidents, infections, or sudden dental complications. Examples include:

• Fractured or broken jaw
• Abscessed tooth
• Excessive bleeding after an extraction or trauma
• Lost or broken dental restorations
• Severe soft tissue injuries

Dental professionals respond to these emergencies with quick relief to help minimize the chance of long-term oral health complications. They also provide a calming presence and a safe space for patients experiencing a dental emergency. Getting immediate treatment for urgent conditions can prevent further damage and health risks.

Learn more about oral surgery at SmileWell Family Dentistry

There is a wide variety of oral surgery procedures that dental professionals can perform to address dental and oral health needs. Would you like to know more about SmileWell Family Dentistry 's oral surgery offerings? Call our Torrance office to schedule a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://smilewellsouthbay.com or call SmileWell Family Dentistry at (310) 904-6375 for an appointment in our Torrance office.

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