Oral surgery is a crucial component of modern dentistry that offers effective, life-changing solutions for various dental problems. In Charleston, South Carolina, some of the top oral and maxillofacial surgeons contribute to an environment that promotes the comprehensive recovery and well-being of their patients.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth—or third molars—are the last set of teeth to erupt, typically during late adolescence or early adulthood. The complexities of their eruption often lead to various dental problems that necessitate removal. Wisdom teeth removal can prevent or alleviate issues like pain, infection, and overcrowding.
Procedure
The surgery commences with administering anesthesia for the patient’s comfort. Following this, the oral surgeon makes a small incision in the gums, exposing the affected tooth. If necessary, the surgeon will cut the tooth into smaller pieces to facilitate extraction and minimize trauma. The gum tissue is then sutured, and gauze is placed to control bleeding.
Postoperative Care
Post-surgery, patients should follow the oral surgeon’s instructions to promote smooth recovery. This generally includes applying ice packs to the face to reduce swelling, taking prescribed medications, maintaining oral hygiene, and sticking to a soft diet for a few days.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent option for patients with missing teeth who seek a long-lasting, natural-looking tooth replacement solution. The implants consist of high-quality titanium screws inserted into the jawbone through minor oral surgery, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth.
Procedure
The dental implant procedure typically consists of three stages:
The oral surgeon places the titanium implant into the jawbone, after which the operation site is left to heal for several months—usually, three to six months. During the healing process, called osseointegration, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone, ensuring a secure foundation.
Once osseointegration is complete, the surgeon exposes the top of the implant and places an abutment; a temporary crown is positioned to protect the site during healing.
Finally, after a two-week healing period, the permanent crown is secured to the abutment, completing the procedure.
Postoperative Care
The patient should carefully follow the dental professional’s instructions for optimal implant outcomes. This will entail consuming a soft diet for a few days, managing pain and swelling with proper medication, and practicing a stringent oral hygiene regimen, even during the healing phase.
Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgeries can correct problems related to the jawbone, bite alignment, temporomandibular joint issues, or facial trauma. Conditions such as facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing, sleep apnea, and facial trauma can be effectively treated with jaw surgery.
Procedure
Jaw surgery may vary depending on the condition being addressed. The surgeon typically administers general anesthesia, followed by an incision in the oral cavity or external skin to access the affected jawbone. Once the jawbone is exposed, the surgeon reshapes, repositions, or adds/removes parts as necessary. After the reconfiguration, the bone is stabilized with plates and screws before suturing the incisions.
Postoperative Care
Adequate recovery time is needed after jaw surgery. The patient must consult their surgeon regarding dietary restrictions, pain management, and oral care instructions. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure successful healing and recovery.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is designed to save severely infected teeth from extraction. It is a dental procedure involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp, followed by the cleaning, disinfection, and sealing of the tooth.
Procedure
During root canal treatment, the dentist or endodontist numbs the affected area and isolates the tooth. A small opening is made atop the tooth, allowing access to the infected pulp. The infected tissue is removed, and the canals are disinfected and shaped. The canals are then filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and sealed. The dentist will place a temporary filling atop the tooth until the permanent crown can be affixed during a subsequent visit.
Postoperative Care
Post-treatment care after a root canal includes avoiding hard or sticky foods, taking medications as prescribed, and maintaining meticulous oral hygiene. It is crucial to attend follow-up appointments to ensure the crown placement and gauge the tooth’s overall recovery.
Conclusion
In Charleston, SC, skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide patients with a comprehensive range of oral surgery services that address a multitude of dental issues. By utilizing advanced dental technologies, efficient surgical techniques, and compassionate care, these dental professionals help develop and maintain healthy oral environments for patients.
Having a consistent oral hygiene routine and attending regular dental check-ups are key preventive measures that can reduce the need for oral surgery. However, when dental problems do arise, Charleston’s dental specialists will work together to ensure patients receive the best care possible, facilitating optimal oral health and a better quality of life.
