Understanding Oral Surgery
Oral surgery involves surgical interventions performed by oral surgeons or highly trained dentists who have undergone extensive education and clinical training. These specialists possess expertise in various aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgery, including dental implants, facial trauma, oral pathology, and corrective jaw surgery.
Common Procedures in Oral Surgery
Oral surgery encompasses many procedures tailored to address diverse oral health issues. Some of the most common procedures include:
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Tooth Extractions
Oral surgeons perform tooth extractions for various reasons, such as severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, or impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often require surgical extraction due to impaction, leading to pain, infection, and dental misalignment.
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Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Oral surgeons meticulously plan and execute implant placement, ensuring optimal function and aesthetics for the patient.
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Orthognathic Surgery
This corrective jaw surgery aims to correct abnormalities in the jawbones, such as misalignment or disproportionate growth. Orthognathic surgery enhances facial harmony and improves chewing, speaking, and breathing functions.
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Oral Pathology
An oral surgeon in Livonia can also diagnose and treat various oral diseases and conditions, including oral cancer, cysts, and tumors. Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing these potentially life-threatening conditions.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Livonia
Among the various types of oral surgery procedures, wisdom teeth surgery stands out as one of the most prevalent. Wisdom teeth, the third molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, often pose problems due to impaction, inadequate space, or improper eruption angle. Some signs that you may need your wisdom teeth removed include:
- Pain and Discomfort
- Swelling
- Tooth Movement
- Difficulty Opening the Mouth
Individuals experiencing discomfort or complications related to their wisdom teeth should consult a nearby dentist to determine the best treatment. If wisdom teeth removal is recommended, your dentist in Livonia will work with you to ensure you get the best care possible.
Oral surgeons will administer local anesthesia or sedation during a wisdom teeth extraction procedure to ensure patient comfort. They then carefully remove the affected teeth through surgical techniques, which may involve sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces for easier extraction.
Post-Operative Care
Following wisdom teeth removal, patients receive detailed post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and minimize complications. This typically includes pain management, oral hygiene guidelines, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments to monitor recovery progress.
Oral surgery encompasses a diverse range of procedures aimed at addressing various oral health issues. Wisdom teeth surgery holds particular significance, offering relief from pain and preventing potential complications associated with impacted third molars.
We always welcome new patients at our Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia dental offices. Call the office nearest you to schedule an appointment.
