When it comes to maintaining optimal oral health, sometimes regular dental care isn't enough. In some cases, specialized procedures known as oral surgery are required to address more complex dental issues. These procedures are performed by oral surgeons, who are highly trained professionals with expertise in surgical techniques specific to the mouth, jaw, and face. Delve into the world of oral surgery and explore the types of procedures that fall under this category.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction:
One of the most common oral surgery procedures is the extraction of wisdom teeth, also known as third molars. These teeth often emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood and can cause a range of issues such as pain, misalignment, and infection. Wisdom teeth extraction involves removing these teeth to prevent complications and preserve oral health.
Dental Implant Placement:
Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth. Oral surgeons perform implant placement procedures, during which a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. This procedure provides a stable foundation for prosthetic teeth, ensuring a natural-looking and functional smile.
Corrective Jaw Surgery:
Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is performed to address problems related to the jaw's position and alignment. It's used to treat conditions such as overbites, underbites, and jaw misalignment that can affect speech, chewing, and overall facial appearance. This procedure aims to improve both function and aesthetics.
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Surgery:
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) can cause severe jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. Oral surgeons can perform various TMJ surgeries to address these issues, including arthroscopy to diagnose and treat joint problems, as well as joint replacement in extreme cases.
Bone Grafting:
Before dental implants can be placed, it's essential that the jawbone is strong enough to support them. If a patient lacks sufficient bone density, bone grafting may be performed. This procedure involves taking bone from another part of the body or using synthetic materials to enhance the jaw's structure and support implant placement.
At Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Ellicott City, their experienced team is dedicated to providing expert care, from wisdom teeth extraction to dental implants. For more details, visit: https://www.ellicottcitydentistry.com/oral-surgery.