Oral surgery is a specialised branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, and jaw. In Aberdeen, oral surgery services are available to address a wide range of dental issues, from tooth extractions to more complex procedures such as corrective jaw surgery. This guide will explore the types of Oral Surgery in Aberdeen, what to expect during the process, and how to care for yourself after surgery.
What Is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery involves surgical procedures related to the teeth, gums, and jaw. These procedures are typically carried out by a specialist known as an oral surgeon. While some oral surgeries are performed for cosmetic reasons, many are necessary to address functional problems or to treat medical conditions that affect the mouth and jaw.
Common reasons for oral surgery include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth fail to emerge properly, they can become impacted, leading to pain, swelling, or infection. Oral surgery is often needed to remove these teeth.
- Tooth extractions: Severely damaged or decayed teeth that cannot be repaired with fillings or crowns may need to be removed through oral surgery.
- Dental implants: Oral surgeons place dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots, into the jawbone to support replacement teeth.
- Jaw alignment issues: Corrective jaw surgery may be required for people with misaligned jaws, a condition that can affect chewing, speech, and appearance.
- Oral cancer treatment: Surgery may be necessary to remove tumours or growths in the mouth.
Types of Oral Surgery in Aberdeen
There are several types of oral surgery that residents in Aberdeen may require. Here are some of the most common procedures:
1. Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. For some people, wisdom teeth grow in without any problems. However, for many, there is not enough space in the mouth for these teeth to emerge properly, causing them to become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
In such cases, oral surgery is needed to remove the impacted wisdom teeth. The procedure is relatively straightforward and is often done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
2. Tooth Extractions
While dentists can perform routine extractions, complex cases often require the expertise of an oral surgeon. A tooth may need to be extracted if it is severely decayed, broken, or if there is not enough room in the mouth for it to remain. Oral surgery ensures that the extraction is done safely and with minimal discomfort for the patient.
3. Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. The process involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial root. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a crown is placed on top, providing a natural-looking and fully functional replacement tooth.
Oral surgeons in Aberdeen specialise in placing dental implants and ensure that the procedure is carried out with precision. Dental implants not only improve the appearance of your smile but also restore chewing function and help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
4. Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is performed to correct misalignments in the jaw. This type of surgery is often necessary for people with severe underbites, overbites, or other issues that affect their ability to chew, speak, or breathe properly.
Jaw surgery is typically planned in coordination with orthodontic treatment. The oral surgeon repositions the jaw to improve its alignment, which can lead to better functionality and an enhanced appearance.
5. Oral Biopsies and Cancer Treatment
If a patient has suspicious lumps, sores, or growths in the mouth, an oral surgeon may perform a biopsy to determine if it is cancerous. If oral cancer is detected, surgery may be required to remove the cancerous tissue. Early detection and treatment are crucial for the successful management of oral cancer.
What to Expect During Oral Surgery
The thought of undergoing oral surgery can be intimidating, but understanding the process can help ease anxiety. Here’s what you can generally expect when preparing for an oral surgery procedure in Aberdeen:
- Initial consultation: Before any surgery, you will have a consultation with the oral surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will examine your mouth, take X-rays or scans if necessary, and discuss the best course of treatment for your condition.
- Anaesthesia: Depending on the type of surgery, you may be given local anaesthesia (to numb the area), sedation (to help you relax), or general anaesthesia (to put you to sleep during the procedure). Your surgeon will explain the options and help you decide which is most suitable for your case.
- Surgery: Most oral surgeries are completed in one visit. The length of the procedure will depend on its complexity. For example, a tooth extraction may take just 30 minutes, while more involved surgeries like corrective jaw surgery could take several hours.
- Aftercare instructions: Once the surgery is complete, the oral surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. These instructions may include recommendations for pain management, diet, and activities to avoid.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery period after oral surgery varies depending on the type of procedure you’ve had. Here are some general tips for a smooth recovery:
- Manage discomfort: It’s common to experience some swelling and discomfort after surgery. Your oral surgeon may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any discomfort.
- Follow dietary recommendations: After surgery, you may need to stick to a soft food diet for a few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the surgical site.
- Keep the area clean: It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene during your recovery. Your oral surgeon will advise you on how to clean the surgical area without causing irritation.
- Rest: Rest is essential for healing. Avoid strenuous activities for at least a few days after surgery, and follow your surgeon’s instructions about when it’s safe to return to normal activities.
Conclusion
Oral surgery in Aberdeen offers effective solutions for a wide range of dental and oral health problems. Whether you need wisdom teeth removed, dental implants, or corrective jaw surgery, oral surgeons in Aberdeen are equipped to provide expert care. Understanding the process, from the initial consultation Aberdeen Dental Implant Centre feel more confident and prepared for your procedure.
