Dentistry is a branch of surgery responsible for providing oral healthcare services. It offers a range of procedures, from routine care to the management of complex dental problems that require surgery. This article will discuss five types of dental surgery.
Type of dental surgery
Tooth Extraction:
Purpose: Tooth Extraction is a very common dental surgery that removes a damaged, decayed, or irritating tooth. This treatment option is usually used to slow or control the infection before it spreads or to relieve the patient’s pain.
Procedure: The dentist numbs the tooth’s surrounding area and then carefully extracts it using specialised tools. In some cases, such as an impacted wisdom tooth, a more complex extraction may be necessary.
Aftercare: The instruction involves patients adhering to post-extraction care guidelines. Including taking medications as prescribed and avoiding certain food items to heal correctly.
Root Canal Therapy:
Purpose: A root canal treatment aims to restore the tooth once its pulp (the central part) has been severely infected or broadly damaged. It causes less pain and avoids pulling teeth.
Procedure: After removing the infected pulp, a root canal is cleaned and sealed. A crown may be added for extra protection.
Aftercare: While discomfort may occur during the initial days, the process usually improves after a few days. Proper aftercare, including observing good oral health practices, is necessary for the teeth to last longer. This treatment is a long-term solution.
Dental Implant Surgery:
Purpose: Dental implants have become a part of contemporary dentistry and are widely used to replace missing teeth. Surgery includes screws made of titanium into the jaw bone as a foundation which can serve as a replacement for the natural tooth.
Procedure: After careful planning and preparation, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, creating a durable and long-lasting solution.
Aftercare: Patients are advised to follow post-prosthesis care guidelines, which include maintaining good clinical practices and attending follow-up appointments.
Gum Graft Surgery:
Purpose: The gum grafting method is used to treat the gum problem. Which in turn might end up with the sensitivity of the teeth and a greater chance of decay. Surgery is meant to fix the gum tissue and not cause recession.
Aftercare: Patients may have some swelling and discomfort as they are getting injections. Regular implementation of good denture habits and constant avoidance of irritants are the current keys to successful recovery.
Orthognathic Surgery:
Purpose: Orthognathic surgery (treatment for anatomical jaw failures) is a kind of surgical operation that helps realign the jaw. It may enhance the grins aesthetics, crush edibles, and general dental health.
Procedure: The surgeon properly rehabilitates the upper and/or lower jaw by using a saw or a bone cutter to remove unwanted bone and challenge it with great reshaping of the jaw. Combined orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery can have the maximum effect.
Aftercare: Healing might require some period, and patients will be under close uptake by the dental team at regular intervals. Aftercare surgery, which allows for a soft diet and follows the instructions from an orthodontist, is a must in this case.
What are the Risks and Complications:
The risks and complications associated with oral surgery are similar to those associated with any medical procedure.
- Infection risk.
- Injury to adjacent teeth is possible.
- Potential for numbness.
- Potential for broken teeth roots.
- Potential for sinus troubles.
Conclusion:
It’s important to know about common types of dental surgery to ease any concerns you may have and demystify the process. If you are facing a dental issue that requires surgery. It’s crucial to seek advice from your dentist, who can provide personalized information and guide you through the entire process. Always remember that proactive dental care and regular check-ups are important to maintaining a healthy and happy smile.