What Are the Different Types of Dental Surgery?

Are you wondering what the different types of dental surgery are? If so, you’re not the only one.

After all, having your teeth feel healthy and function properly is one of the most important aspects of your life. Understanding the types of procedures can help you determine the best course of action if something is causing you pain or causing your teeth to be damaged.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common surgeries you’ll come across as you visit your dentist for regular checkups.

Let’s begin!

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge at the back of the mouth. Often, there is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate the wisdom teeth. This leads to problems such as:

• impaction
• infection
• damage to surrounding teeth

Wisdom teeth removal is a procedure to prevent these problems from occurring. The procedure for wisdom teeth removal involves making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and removing it from the socket.

Depending on the position and shape of the tooth, the procedure may also involve removing a part of the bone around the tooth. The surgery is performed under local anesthesia and may take up to an hour. This depends on the complexity of the case.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is a common dental surgery used to treat problems with the inner pulp of a tooth. This procedure is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. During a root canal, the damaged or infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.

Root canal therapy is typically performed under local anesthesia. Patients may experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity following the procedure. However, with proper aftercare and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime.

It is important to follow all instructions provided by your dentist after a root canal. This ensures proper healing and minimizes the risk of complications.

Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces damaged teeth with artificial ones. The surgery involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as the root for the artificial tooth. This post then fuses with the bone over time, creating a secure foundation for the implant.

After the post has integrated with the bone, an abutment is placed on top of it. Then a crown is attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant.

Recovery time can vary depending on the patient’s individual situation. But, most people can return to normal activities within a few days to a week. Regular check-ups with the dentist are important to ensure the success and longevity of the dental implant.

Periodontal Surgery

Periodontal surgery is a type of dental surgery that involves treating gum disease. This surgery is for patients with advanced stages of gum disease that cannot be treated with non-surgical methods. The surgery cleans the pockets between the gums and teeth and removes any damaged tissue.

There are several different types of periodontal surgery, including flap surgery and bone grafts. Flap surgery involves lifting the gums to remove tartar buildup and then securing the gums back in place. Bone grafts involve transplanting bone tissue to replace lost bone in the jaw.

Crown Lengthening Surgery

Crown lengthening surgery is a common type of dental surgery used for a variety of reasons. The goal of the procedure is to adjust the height of the gum and bone around a tooth to make a longer crown possible. It is typically done to a single tooth or several adjacent teeth.

This dental surgery is often used to make a tooth look more aesthetically pleasing or to make room for a dental crown or bridge treatment. It can also be done to allow access to decay that is too deep to be accessed with a standard-length crown. Crown lengthening surgery is often combined with other dental treatments.

Recovery is usually complete between one and two weeks after the dental surgery. Other common types of dental surgeries include extractions, root canals, and periodontal treatments.

Dental Bridges and Crowns

Dental bridges and crowns are popular dental procedures that aim to restore missing or damaged teeth. A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that attaches to the remaining teeth. On the other hand, a dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength.

Both procedures need local anesthesia and are performed in a dentist’s office. Local general dentistry services typically offer these procedures. They can last for several years with proper care and maintenance.

Bone Grafting Surgery

Bone grafting surgery is one of the common oral surgery procedures used to restore the bone in the jaw. It involves taking a small piece of bone from another part of the body, such as the hip, and transplanting it into the jawbone. The transplanted bone then stimulates the growth of new bone tissue.

Before undergoing bone grafting surgery, patients will need to consult with their dentist or oral surgeon. The procedure requires several appointments and may involve many surgeries. Patients can expect some discomfort and swelling after the surgery.

Fortunately, most can return to their normal activities within a few days. Bone grafting surgery is an effective way to restore the jawbone and improve dental health.

Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure to correct jaw abnormalities. This reconstructive dental surgery is for those with a misaligned bite, facial trauma, or sleep apnea. The procedure will reposition the jaw and secure it with screws, plates, or wires.

Recovery time can vary but may take up to 6 weeks. But, some patients require orthodontic treatment post-surgery. Local general dentistry services may offer orthognathic surgery or may refer patients to a specialist.

Discuss with a qualified oral surgeon before making a decision. To understand the potential risks and benefits of the procedure

Understanding the Various Types of Dental Surgery

There are many different types of dental surgery available. Whether you are dealing with a broken tooth, cavities, gum issues, or correcting problems with aesthetics, your dentist can recommend an appropriate type of dental surgery. Call your local dentist today to discuss the options available and make a plan to keep your teeth healthy!

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