What is Oral Surgery? 

Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. While wisdom teeth are one of the most common procedures that fall under oral surgery, oral surgery could also range from corrective jaw surgery to complex tooth extractions. Even though oral surgery can sound scary, it plays a crucial role in restoring oral health and function.

Understanding Oral Surgery

Oral surgery involves surgical interventions performed by oral surgeons or highly trained dentists who have undergone extensive education and clinical training. These specialists possess expertise in various aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgery, including dental implants, facial trauma, oral pathology, and corrective jaw surgery.

Common Procedures in Oral Surgery

Oral surgery encompasses many procedures tailored to address diverse oral health issues. Some of the most common procedures include:

  • Tooth Extractions

Oral surgeons perform tooth extractions for various reasons, such as severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, or impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often require surgical extraction due to impaction, leading to pain, infection, and dental misalignment.

  • Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Oral surgeons meticulously plan and execute implant placement, ensuring optimal function and aesthetics for the patient.

  • Orthognathic Surgery

This corrective jaw surgery aims to correct abnormalities in the jawbones, such as misalignment or disproportionate growth. Orthognathic surgery enhances facial harmony and improves chewing, speaking, and breathing functions.

  • Oral Pathology

An oral surgeon in Livonia can also diagnose and treat various oral diseases and conditions, including oral cancer, cysts, and tumors. Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing these potentially life-threatening conditions.

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Livonia

Among the various types of oral surgery procedures, wisdom teeth surgery stands out as one of the most prevalent. Wisdom teeth, the third molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, often pose problems due to impaction, inadequate space, or improper eruption angle. Some signs that you may need your wisdom teeth removed include:

  • Pain and Discomfort
  • Swelling
  • Tooth Movement
  • Difficulty Opening the Mouth

Individuals experiencing discomfort or complications related to their wisdom teeth should consult a nearby dentist to determine the best treatment. If wisdom teeth removal is recommended, your dentist in Livonia will work with you to ensure you get the best care possible. 

Oral surgeons will administer local anesthesia or sedation during a wisdom teeth extraction procedure to ensure patient comfort. They then carefully remove the affected teeth through surgical techniques, which may involve sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces for easier extraction.

Post-Operative Care

Following wisdom teeth removal, patients receive detailed post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and minimize complications. This typically includes pain management, oral hygiene guidelines, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments to monitor recovery progress.

Oral surgery encompasses a diverse range of procedures aimed at addressing various oral health issues. Wisdom teeth surgery holds particular significance, offering relief from pain and preventing potential complications associated with impacted third molars. 

We always welcome new patients at our Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia dental offices. Call the office nearest you to schedule an appointment. 

About The Author
Dr. Dale Flanagin II​

Dr. Dale Flanagin II is a distinguished professional in the field of dentistry, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology as well as a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He is committed to improving the lives of others through his work, driven by a lifelong passion for helping people.

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