Are you feeling uneasy about your upcoming experience with the dentist and the treatment you will receive as a patient? Unfortunately, when getting oral treatment and the unknowns of “going under” if you need sedation, this is a common feeling. However, if you’re in Bowie, MD, oral surgery offices are within reach, and finding the right surgeon is important to your health and wellbeing. Here we’ll discuss the most common diagnoses and concerns of oral and maxillofacial surgery patients.
Dental Maxillofacial Surgery: What is it?
Maxillofacial surgery aims to resolve problems with the mouth, teeth, face, and neck with the help of a maxillofacial surgeon. Maxillofacial surgeons undergo advanced training to become specialized dentists. They specialize in dental procedures such as tooth extractions, oral surgery procedures to remove tumors from the mouth or oral regions of the face, oral pathology that includes oral diagnosis, oral surgery procedures to correct jaw problems, facial fractures around the mouth region, reconstruction of the jaws and oral region in cases of oral cancer, and much more.
Common Oral Surgery Procedures
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a standard process that many people need at some point in their teenage or adult years. As part of the wisdom tooth extraction process, the doctor will be opening the gum line so that the tooth can come out quickly. Usually, this treatment will significantly reduce the pain caused by wisdom teeth.
Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery involves performing facial bone restructuring. In other words, the doctor will improve the alignment of your jaw by shortening, lengthening, widening, or narrowing it. Unfortunately, this corrective oral treatment may mean that you have to have teeth removed so that everything is in proper alignment once again.
Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implants are used to restore the function of teeth that have been lost or damaged. They can be an excellent option for restoring a healthier and more beautiful smile. A dental implant is a filling with a titanium post and has the appearance of your natural tooth. The dental implant lies in the bone in the mouth and is secured by the periodontal ligament. This treatment gives your teeth the aesthetic look and feel of natural teeth.
Bone Grafting
If you have poor oral health or other health conditions, you may lose bone in the space where your teeth used to be. In addition to losing a tooth, it may cause significant damage to the jawbone. You can prevent further damage to your jawbone by placing a bone graft in the space where the tooth is missing.
Tumors and Other Conditions
Maxillofacial surgeons can diagnose tumors through a consultation that includes an oral cancer screening. This is a priority consultation, and you should feel at ease in what can be a stressful situation. A dentist who specializes in oral cancers will inspect your mouth to check for any signs of cancerous tissue changes. A dental treatment plan is scheduled after the lab results are complete to plan the next appointment.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge can replace missing teeth. The process involves two crowns that anchor the bridge to the space left by the tooth. The doctors will treat these conditions in a few appointments to be completed.
Alveoloplasty
Alveoloplasty is a method that involves the removal of a portion of the bone from your jaw to allow room for a dental implant. If you have a tooth missing, a dentist with expertise in implants will help you decide if a dental implant is a suitable solution.
Common Side Effects Following Oral Surgery
During the dental recovery process, it is essential not to neglect the necessary steps to recovery. To help you with your recovery, follow the instructions given to you by the doctor. Make this recovery process a priority over other responsibilities. Moreover, make sure to avoid foods that cause too much chewing or pressure on your jaw.
The follow-up appointment with an oral surgeon in Bowie, MD, is scheduled to avoid any oral conditions after your oral and maxillofacial surgery. You must always try to keep all of your follow-up appointments to avoid post-surgery complications. Oral surgeons and staff help you recover after surgery and make sure that everything is going according to plan. However, side effects do happen sometimes.
Here are some side effects your may experience:
- Swelling – Some patients may experience swelling after oral surgery, but this is a normal response following almost any surgery. To reduce swelling, apply ice or a cold pack to your face. You can also take over-the-counter medication to help with the inflammation.
- Pain and discomfort – You might experience mild discomfort or moderate soreness after your surgery. This is normal, and there should be no concern unless the pain becomes severe. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can reduce the intensity of pain following surgery. Moreover, your doctor can prescribe medication that may also help to ease some pain.
- Infection – Most patients experience quick healing with no infection, but it is always important to watch for signs of infection after surgery, especially if you have an open wound within the gum. Symptoms of infection include pain, redness, drainage of fluids or pus from the surgical area, and fever. Always make it a priority to call the dental office if you have a concern.
- Irritation and Bleeding – There is a chance that you may experience some bleeding and irritation after your surgery, so always inform your doctor if bleeding continues for an extended period or if you experience excessive bleeding that won’t stop. Your doctor will have you apply pressure to stop the bleeding and prescribe an antibiotic ointment for your mouth.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Visit the experts at Superior Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Bowie, MD, to meet all of your oral health needs. Our expertise in oral surgery and specialty in overall dental health will help ease the nerves that come with visiting a dental office. Our staff will make your health and comfort our priority and ease your mind of any concerns regarding oral surgery. Call our dental office today to make your first appointment and consultation!