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Rockwall Oral Surgery

Common Types of Oral Surgeries and Their Purpose

Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures that address various dental and oral health concerns. These surgical interventions are performed by skilled oral surgeons to treat conditions that cannot be effectively resolved with non-surgical approaches alone. In this blog post, we will explore some common types of oral surgeries and their purposes, shedding light on the diverse range of procedures that oral surgeons perform to improve oral health and overall well-being.

Tooth Extraction:

Tooth extraction is a common oral surgery procedure performed when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or impacted. Oral surgeons carefully remove the tooth, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient. Tooth extraction may also be necessary for orthodontic reasons, such as creating space for proper teeth alignment.

Dental Implant Placement:

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option that involves the surgical placement of an artificial tooth root (implant) into the jawbone. Oral surgeons perform the implant placement procedure, ensuring the implant integrates with the surrounding bone for stability. Dental implants provide a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture, restoring both functionality and aesthetics.

Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery):

Orthognathic surgery is performed to correct significant jaw irregularities or misalignments that cannot be addressed through orthodontic treatment alone. Oral surgeons reposition the jaws to improve their alignment, enhance bite function, and correct facial asymmetry. Corrective jaw surgery can significantly improve both aesthetics and oral function.

Wisdom Teeth Removal:

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often require removal due to complications such as impaction, overcrowding, or the potential for infection. Oral surgeons perform wisdom teeth removal to prevent future dental problems, alleviate pain, and maintain oral health.

Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders:

TMJ disorders can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. Oral surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders surgically. Procedures may involve removing scar tissue, realigning the jaw joint, or addressing structural abnormalities to improve jaw function and alleviate pain.

Bone Grafting:

Bone grafting is a procedure used to augment and strengthen the jawbone in preparation for dental implant placement. Oral surgeons harvest bone from another part of the body or use synthetic bone graft materials to augment areas with insufficient bone volume. This procedure ensures a solid foundation for successful implant integration.

Treatment of Oral Pathologies:

Oral surgeons play a critical role in diagnosing and treating various oral pathologies, including cysts, tumors, and infections. Surgical interventions may involve the removal of abnormal growths, cyst enucleation, or biopsy for further evaluation and treatment planning.

Soft Tissue Procedures:

Oral surgeons also perform soft tissue procedures to address conditions such as gum disease, gum recession, or the need for frenectomy (removal of excessive tissue that restricts movement). These procedures help restore oral health, improve aesthetics, and maintain proper oral function.

Oral surgery encompasses a broad spectrum of procedures designed to address complex dental and oral health conditions. From tooth extraction and dental implant placement to corrective jaw surgery and treatment of TMJ disorders, oral surgeons play a vital role in restoring oral health, improving aesthetics, and enhancing overall well-being. If you require oral surgery, consult with an experienced oral surgeon who can provide personalized care and guide you through the appropriate surgical treatment for your specific needs. For questions, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pollock and his team call us today at 469-264-8921.