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Understanding Oral Surgery: When Is It Necessary?

December 17, 2024

Oral surgery is a specialized field that addresses dental and facial issues requiring more advanced care. From wisdom teeth removal to dental implants, these procedures are essential for treating conditions that general dentistry cannot resolve. If you’re wondering when oral surgery is the right solution, an oral surgeon in 33431 can assess your needs and recommend the best course of action. Here’s an overview of common situations where oral surgery becomes necessary.

Oral Surgeon 33431 and dental team

Common Reasons for Oral Surgery

Oral surgery may be required to restore functionality, alleviate pain, or address specific health concerns. Below are some of the most common reasons why it might be recommended.

1. Impacted Teeth

What Are Impacted Teeth?

Impacted teeth occur when a tooth cannot fully erupt through the gum line. This issue is common with wisdom teeth but can also affect other teeth, such as canines. Impacted teeth often remain partially trapped under the gums or in the jawbone, leading to pain, swelling, or infection. In some cases, impacted teeth can grow at an angle, pressing against nearby teeth or even the jawbone.

Why Surgery Is Needed

Without treatment, impacted teeth can result in a range of complications, including crowding of adjacent teeth, gum inflammation, tooth decay, and the formation of cysts or abscesses. Surgical removal is often the recommended solution to prevent these issues from escalating. This procedure helps relieve discomfort and protects the health of surrounding teeth and gums.

2. Missing Teeth

The Role of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. These implants involve surgically placing titanium posts into the jawbone, which act as artificial tooth roots. Once the implants integrate with the bone, they can support crowns, bridges, or dentures, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Why Surgery Is Needed

Dental implants replace missing teeth and prevent jawbone loss, which occurs when teeth are missing for an extended period. This preservation of bone structure helps maintain facial shape and prevents the shifting of nearby teeth. Oral surgery is essential for placing the implants securely, ensuring they function as durable and long-lasting replacements.

3. Jawbone Issues

Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

Bone grafting is required when the jawbone lacks the necessary density to support implants. This procedure involves adding bone material to the jaw, either from the patient’s own body or a synthetic source, to create a stable foundation for implants.

Corrective Jaw Surgery

Misaligned jaws can cause problems with chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Corrective jaw surgery realigns the jawbones to improve their function and comfort. This type of surgery is often used to address severe cases of malocclusion or jaw deformities, ensuring better oral health and overall quality of life.

4. Oral Pathology

Detecting and Treating Oral Diseases

Oral surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat abnormal growths or lesions in the mouth. These could include cysts, tumors, or other irregularities that may indicate oral cancer or other diseases. A biopsy is often the first step in identifying whether a growth is benign or malignant.

Why Surgery Is Needed

If a growth is found to be problematic, surgical removal is usually required. Removing the abnormality prevents it from spreading and reduces the risk of complications. Early intervention is crucial in managing these conditions effectively.

Oral Surgeon 33431 checking patient's mouth

Need Help From A Reliable Oral Surgeon in 33431?

At 5th Avenue Dental, our experienced team offers a wide range of oral surgery solutions tailored to your unique needs. From wisdom teeth removal to advanced dental implants, we provide care in a comfortable and supportive environment. Each procedure is performed with precision, utilizing the latest techniques to achieve the best possible results for patients.

Schedule your consultation with our skilled Oral Surgeon 33431 today to achieve a healthier, more confident smile.