Oral Surgery

Oral surgery involves surgical procedures that are performed on the mouth, teeth, and jaw. While many dental issues can be resolved through non-invasive treatments like fillings or cleanings, there are instances where oral surgery is necessary.

Oral surgery encompasses various procedures designed to address complex dental issues beyond what routine dentistry offers. By relying on their expertise and advanced techniques, our dentist can help restore both function and aesthetics while ensuring optimal patient comfort throughout each procedure.

What Are the Different Types of Oral Surgery?

• One common surgical procedure is tooth extraction, which involves the removal of a damaged or decayed tooth. This may be necessary when a tooth cannot be saved through other means, such as fillings or root canal treatment.
• Another type is dental implant placement, which is used to replace missing teeth with artificial ones that function and look like natural teeth. This procedure involves inserting metal posts into the jawbone and attaching custom-made crowns on top.
• Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, aims to correct abnormalities in jaw structure and alignment. It can help improve chewing, speech patterns, and overall facial appearance for individuals with severe malocclusions or facial asymmetry.
• Wisdom teeth removal is another common oral surgical procedure. Wisdom teeth often cause problems such as pain, infection, crowding, or damage to adjacent teeth. In these cases, extraction may be necessary.
• Other types of oral surgery include gum grafting for gum recession treatment; frenectomy for tongue-tie correction; apicoectomy for infected root tip removal; and biopsy for diagnosing abnormal tissue growth in the mouth.

Each type of oral surgery has its own specific benefits and considerations depending on the individual's needs and circumstances. If you're facing any dental issues that might require surgical intervention, it's crucial to consult with our experienced dentist who will carefully evaluate your condition before recommending a suitable course of action.

What to Expect After Oral Surgery

After undergoing oral surgery, it is normal to experience some discomfort and swelling. This can vary depending on the type of procedure you had and your body's healing process. The first few hours after surgery, you may still feel numb from the anesthesia. As this wears off, you might start feeling sore in your mouth. 

To help manage any pain or discomfort, our dentist will likely prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen. It is important to follow their instructions and take any prescribed medications as directed.  

Swelling is also common after oral surgery, particularly in the area where the procedure took place. Applying an ice pack to your face for short intervals can help reduce swelling and ease any discomfort.  

In addition to managing pain and swelling, it is crucial to maintain proper oral hygiene during the recovery period. This includes gently brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush while avoiding the surgical site. Furthermore, it is essential to stick to a soft food diet for a few days following oral surgery. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soups, smoothies, and scrambled eggs are easy on your mouth while providing necessary nutrients.  

While everyone's recovery time may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances and procedures performed, most people can expect to resume their regular activities within a week or so after oral surgery.

With advancements in technology and techniques continuously evolving within this field, there's never been a better time for oral surgery than now! To learn more, call us at (425) 251-6044 or visit our office, Advanced Care Dental, at 16600 W Valley Hwy, Tukwila, WA 98188. We will be happy to guide you further.