Oral surgery is a branch of dentistry that deals with surgeries involving the mouth, teeth, and jaw. If you’re in Aberdeen and need oral surgery, you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through what oral surgery is, when you might need it, and how you can benefit from it.
What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery involves surgical procedures to treat dental issues that cannot be solved with regular dental care. This may include tooth extractions, corrective jaw surgery, or the treatment of injuries and infections in the mouth.
Oral surgery is usually recommended when non-surgical options aren’t enough to fix a problem. The goal is to improve your oral health, restore functionality, and relieve pain.
Common Types of Oral Surgery
There are several types of oral surgery, each serving different purposes. Here are some of the most common ones:
1. Tooth Extractions
Sometimes, teeth need to be removed if they are severely decayed or damaged beyond repair. Tooth extractions are also common for wisdom teeth that are impacted, meaning they don’t come through properly. Removing these teeth can prevent future oral health issues.
2. Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth. During oral surgery, a titanium post is placed into the jawbone to replace the missing root. Once the post integrates with the bone, a crown or bridge is added, restoring the function and appearance of your smile.
3. Corrective Jaw Surgery
In some cases, people may suffer from jaw misalignment or other issues that affect their bite. This can lead to difficulty chewing or speaking. Corrective jaw surgery can fix these problems and improve overall dental function and appearance.
4. Treatment for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious condition that may require surgery. If diagnosed with oral cancer, surgery may be necessary to remove cancerous tissue. Early detection and treatment are crucial to the success of treatment.
5. Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery
Some individuals are born with cleft lips or palates, which can impact eating, speaking, and overall health. Oral surgery can help correct these conditions, often in early childhood, to improve quality of life.
Why Would You Need Oral Surgery?
There are several reasons why Oral Surgery in Aberdeen may be needed. Some of the most common reasons include:
1. Tooth Decay or Damage
Severe tooth decay or damage may make it impossible to save the tooth. In such cases, extraction is the only solution. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants or bridges can help restore your smile.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough space to emerge properly, which can cause pain and infection. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to other dental problems. Oral surgery can help by removing the problematic teeth.
3. Gum Disease
Severe gum disease can cause the loss of teeth or damage to the jawbone. Oral surgery can help treat advanced gum disease and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
4. Jaw Disorders
Some people experience jaw disorders, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, which can cause pain and difficulty opening the mouth. Surgery can help correct these problems and improve function.
5. Infections
If an infection in the mouth or jaw doesn’t respond to antibiotics or other treatments, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue or abscess.
What to Expect During Oral Surgery
If you need oral surgery in Aberdeen, the process will be carefully planned to ensure your comfort and safety. Here’s what to expect:
1. Consultation
Before the surgery, you’ll have a consultation with your oral surgeon. They will examine your mouth, take X-rays, and discuss your medical history. This helps them determine the best course of action.
2. Anaesthesia Options
Oral surgery is usually done under anaesthesia to ensure you don’t feel any pain. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, you may receive local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia.
3. The Procedure
During the procedure, the surgeon will carefully perform the necessary work. If you’re having a tooth extraction, for example, the tooth will be removed using specialised tools. For implants, the surgeon will place the titanium post into the jawbone.
4. Recovery
After the surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising. This is normal and should subside within a few days. Your oral surgeon will provide you with aftercare instructions to help speed up recovery. These may include avoiding certain foods, taking pain relief medication, and keeping the area clean.
Recovery After Oral Surgery
The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery you’ve had. Here are a few tips to help you heal:
- Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent complications. Always follow the advice given by your oral surgeon.
- Rest: Take time to rest and allow your body to heal. Avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period.
- Manage Pain: You may experience some pain or discomfort after surgery. Over-the-counter pain medication or prescribed medication will help manage this.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can interfere with healing, so it’s best to avoid it during your recovery.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean is essential to avoid infection. Gently rinse with salt water and brush your teeth carefully.
Why Choose Oral Surgery in Aberdeen?
Choosing an oral surgeon in Aberdeen ensures that you are in the hands of skilled professionals who understand your needs. Clinics in Aberdeen offer modern techniques and advanced technology to ensure successful outcomes. With their help, you can receive safe, effective treatment for various dental and oral health issues.
Oral surgeons in Aberdeen are committed to providing you with the highest level of care. They work with you to ensure you are comfortable, well-informed, and prepared for your procedure.
Conclusion
Oral surgery is a vital service that can address a wide range of dental problems. Whether you need tooth extractions, dental implants, or corrective jaw surgery, skilled professionals in Aberdeen are ready to help. By choosing the right clinic, you can restore your oral health and enjoy a pain-free, confident smile. If you’re experiencing dental issues that might require surgery, consult an experienced oral surgeon today to discuss your options.