What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery is an advanced treatment for complicated dental issues like gum recession or jawbone resorption. Because the procedures are complex and can cause significant discomfort, oral surgery often involves sedation or general anesthesia.
At American Dental Clinic, the team performs oral surgery after detailed planning and preparation. They may take digital X-rays during a dental examination to plan your surgery and foresee any potential complications they need to consider.
What types of oral surgery can I get?
The experts at American Dental Clinic perform several types of oral surgery in their office. Depending on your level of oral health and your specific needs, you might need:
Sinus lifting
Sinus lifting is a procedure that elevates the maxillary sinus, which is the empty space under your cheekbone on either side of your face. You might need this surgery if you have bone resorption in your upper jaw and need a dental implant for one of your teeth in the upper row.
Bone augmentation
Bone augmentation, or bone grafting, is an advanced surgery to add artificial or donor bone material to your jawbone in areas of bone resorption. This helps build your bone strength so your jaw can hold an implant firmly.
A bone augmentation happens during a sinus lifting procedure, but you can also get bone augmentation in your lower jaw if need be.
Soft tissue grafting
Soft tissue grafting is a procedure to treat gum recession, which often happens as a result of advanced periodontal disease. Your surgeon removes soft tissue from either the roof of your mouth or gum tissue near the area of recession to cover the exposed roots of your teeth.
How should I prepare for oral surgery?
An important part of oral surgery is the preparation stage. In the weeks or days leading up to your procedure, you should carefully follow the instructions you get from your dentist. This ensures that you’re ready for surgery and can help minimize your chance of experiencing complications.
The specific instructions for your surgery may include:
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before surgery
- Avoiding smoking for at least 24 hours
- Arranging a ride home
- Brushing and flossing thoroughly before the appointment
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing
- Tying up long hair
- Purchasing or preparing soft foods to eat while you recover
A major part of preparing for oral surgery is planning for the recovery period. You may need to request time off work in advance or clean your home to make yourself comfortable as you recover. Your provider tells you what to expect for the recovery in your case.
Book your oral surgery consultation by calling American Dental Clinic or booking online today.
