If you’re thinking about getting dentist surgery, you might be feeling nervous or confused about what to consider from the procedure. On the other hand, you will be able to experience a greater sense of self-assurance and willingness for your procedure if you are provided with the appropriate information and guidance. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing dental surgery, and what you need to know before you go under the knife.
At Spa Dental Care Hockley, we realize that the prospect of having dental surgery can be anxiety for some patients. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand the process and alleviate any fears or concerns you may have.
What is Dental Surgery?
Any surgical procedure that is performed on a patient’s teeth, gums, or jawbone is referred to as dental surgery. Among the many procedures that fall under this category are tooth extractions, dental implants, root canal therapy, and gum surgery. Depending on the level of difficulty involved in the procedure, dental surgery is typically carried out either by a dentist or by an oral surgeon.
Why Do People Need Dental Surgery?
There are many reasons why someone might need dental surgery. Some of the most common include:
- Tooth decay or damage that can’t be repaired with a filling or other non-surgical treatment
- Gum disease that has progressed to the point where surgery is necessary
- Painful or problematic wisdom teeth
- Preparation for dental prosthetics, such as dentures or implants
What Happens During Dental Surgery?
The specifics of your dental surgery will depend on the type of procedure you’re having. The following are generally expected:
Anesthesia
A local anesthetic will be used to numb the area where the surgery will be done. Instead, sometimes general anesthesia is used. Before your procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will talk to you about the type of painkiller that will be used.
Incisions
The dentist or oral surgeon will make incisions in your gums or other soft tissue as necessary to access the area where the surgery will take place. This may involve removing some bone tissue as well.
Repair or removal
The damaged tissue or tooth will be removed or fixed using specialized instruments. This may involve removing a tooth, repairing a damaged tooth, or removing infected tissue.
Closure
Once the surgery is complete, the incisions will be closed with sutures, and you’ll be given instructions on how to care for the affected area as it heals.
Is Dental Surgery Painful?
Despite being uncomfortable, dental surgery shouldn’t cause pain. You’ll receive a local anesthetic or other pain medication to ensure that you don’t feel anything during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some soreness or discomfort as the affected area heals. You can usually manage this with over-the-counter pain medications or a prescription from your dentist.
How Long Does Dental Surgery Take?
Again, the length of your dental surgery will depend on the type of procedure you’re having. Some procedures, such as simple tooth extractions, may only take a few minutes. Others, such as gum surgery or dental implants, may take an hour or more. Time required for your particular procedure can be estimated more accurately by your dentist or oral surgeon.
Recovery After Dental Surgery
After your dental surgery, you’ll need to take special care of the affected area to ensure proper healing. This may include:
- Resting for a period of time after the surgery
- Avoiding certain foods or activities that could disrupt the affected area
- Taking pain medication as needed
- Brushing and flossing carefully around the affected area
- Consistently visiting your dentist or oral surgeon for follow-up care
Possible Complications
Like any surgical procedure, dental surgery carries some risks. While complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of them before you have your procedure. Possible complications include:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Nerve damage
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia or other medications
You should contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms after your dental surgery, such as severe pain or bleeding, so that they can treat you accordingly.
Why Spa Dental Care Hockley?
A reputable and experienced dental clinic is essential when it comes to dental surgery. At Spa Dental Care Hockley, we have a team of skilled dentists and oral surgeons who are dedicated to providing high-quality care to our patients. During your dental surgery, we will use the most up-to-date technology and techniques so that it will be as safe and effective as possible.
At Spa Dental Care Hockley, we’re here to answer any questions you may have and provide the expert care you need for a successful dental surgery outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
