Dental surgery is a common procedure often performed to correct various dental problems. There are several types of dental surgery, each with its benefits and drawbacks. This article will discuss five of the most common types of dental surgery. Every surgery has a different purpose, so be sure to discuss your options with your dentist before deciding on a course of treatment.
1. Root Canal Surgery
Root canal surgery is a common dental surgery often performed to relieve pain and restore function to a damaged tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and filling it with a special material. Not only does this procedure relieve pain, but it also helps to prevent further damage to the tooth.
With root canal surgery, the success rate is very high. However, there are some risks associated with the procedure. These risks include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. But, overall, root canal surgery is a safe and effective way to treat a damaged tooth.
2. Dental Implants
Dental implants are done when you need teeth replacement. The surgery itself is not too complicated and usually just takes one visit to the dentist. First, they will numb the area around the tooth; then, they will make a small incision in your gum. Next, they will place the metal post that will serve as the tooth root into the bone socket. Once the post is in place, they will close up the incision with stitches. Finally, they will attach the artificial tooth to the metal post.
There are a few things you need to know before getting dental implants. You need to have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. You also need to be committed to taking care of your teeth; if you don’t, the implant could fail.
3. Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental surgery, especially for people between the ages of 17 and 25. The surgery is necessary when the wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they grow in at an angle and push on other teeth. This can cause pain, crowding, and even infection. You may need to have all four of your wisdom teeth removed or just one or two.
While wisdom tooth extraction is a common and safe surgery, there are some risks involved. These risks include pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. However, these risks are rare and can usually be avoided by following your dentist’s instructions after the surgery.
4. Gum Graft Surgery
Most people don’t need gum graft surgery, but it can be necessary for people who have lost a lot of gum tissue. There are two main reasons why you might need this surgery: to cover exposed tooth roots or to improve the appearance of your smile.
The first type of gum graft is called a pedicle graft. This type of graft is done by taking a strip of tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the gums around the tooth. The second type of gum graft is called an allograft. This type of graft involves using donor tissue to replace the missing gum tissue.
If you’re getting a gum graft, you’ll be given local anesthesia to numb the area. The surgery usually takes about an hour, and you’ll likely need to take pain medication for a few days after the surgery. There is a small risk of bleeding, infection, and pain with this surgery, but these risks are rare.
5. Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is a type of corrective jaw surgery that is done to improve the function and appearance of the jaws. This surgery is usually done for people who have an overbite, underbite, or jaw that is misaligned. The surgery is fairly complex and usually takes several hours to complete.
After the surgery, you will likely need to stay in the hospital for a few days. You’ll also need to take pain medication and eat soft foods for a few weeks. With this surgery, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and nerve damage, but these risks are rare. Keep in mind that this type of surgery is usually not covered by insurance.
Overall, dental surgery is a safe and effective way to treat various dental problems. If you’re considering dental surgery, be sure to talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits of the procedure. You should also ask what you can expect during and after the surgery. Just remember that dental surgery is a serious procedure and should be done by a qualified dentist.
