An oral surgeon specializes in procedures and surgeries that are designed to treat problems of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Many people, however, are unaware of the types of surgeries that are performed by oral surgeons. The following are three of the most common types of dental surgery in Suffolk County, NY:
1. Tooth Extractions
While it’s common for a dentist to extract a tooth, more complicated cases may be referred to an oral surgeon. If the tooth hasn’t fully erupted, then it may need to be removed surgically. Teeth that are likely to break during extraction, often because of severe decay, are usually referred to an oral surgeon.
Wisdom teeth are perhaps the most common extractions performed by oral surgeons. Because these teeth are often extracted before they erupt through the gum tissue, the patient is usually under general anesthesia for the procedure. Oral surgeons have the tools needed to pull these teeth without any complications.
2. Dental Implants
Patients who wish to replace missing teeth with dental implants must undergo dental surgery in Suffolk County, NY. The process of getting an implant requires surgically placing a titanium post into the jaw of the patient. Local or general anesthesia is used, depending on the needs of the patient.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue that extends down to the bone. The post is then inserted. Over the next few weeks, the gum tissue will heal, and the post will bond to the bone. Once the implant post is fully healed, a dental crown is attached on top.
3. Jaw Surgery
Problems with the jaw are usually referred to an oral surgeon. A misaligned bite cannot always be corrected through orthodontics. In complex situations, surgery is needed to fix the patient’s bite. Jaw surgery is also common after facial trauma.
Patients who deal with a painful TMJ disorder may also require jaw surgery to repair the damage. An oral surgeon will evaluate the jaw joint to determine if surgery is necessary. Bite correction surgery or arthroscopic surgery may be recommended.
From tooth extractions to jaw surgery, oral surgeons handle even the most complex cases. The surgeons at Business Name diagnose and treat problems of the mouth and jaw. Be sure to seek medical attention to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
