When Does a General Dentist Recommend Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery can sound like a daunting process, but it could be the most effective way to correct a serious issue. Not every problem with your teeth, jaw, or mouth will require an invasive procedure. Your dentist can help you understand when it is time to undergo one. There are various types of surgeries for different situations. Each one has benefits for your oral health and wellness.

Determining a patient’s needs for oral surgery

Oral procedures can occur at any age for dental patients. Some patients may notice signs or symptoms such as jaw pain or difficulty chewing. At other times, the dentist may diagnose the patient with a condition during a routine dental checkup and examination. Usually, taking X-rays will identify concerns with the jaw or with impacted or non-impacted teeth. The dentist will consider other factors before doing a surgery such as the patient’s overall health and alternative processes.

There is not enough room in the mouth for more teeth

Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common types of oral surgery. The wisdom teeth, or third set of molars, come in later in life. These teeth can appear when a person reaches their late teens, early 20s, or even after this period. Some patients have plenty of space for these new molars, but for many, the extra teeth would crowd the mouth. If the dentist determines that emerging wisdom teeth could become trapped in the jaw or break through at the wrong angle, surgery may be necessary. Crowded or misaligned wisdom teeth can also increase a person’s chances of having gum disease or cavities.

The patient has sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition where a person stops breathing while sleeping. This can occur due to blockage in the airway. Sleep apnea can disrupt sleep cycles and lead to more serious problems, such as high blood pressure. A general dentist can examine the patient and come up with solutions to open the airway more effectively. An oral surgery, in this case, could involve removing tonsils or the soft tissue of the palate.

The patient has severe jaw pain

Occasional jaw pain might not be cause for concern. However, if a person complains about severe pain or notes that there is constant discomfort, the dentist may recommend oral surgery. Different procedures can properly align the jaw. The dentist may have to relocate the jaw or remove parts of it. This surgery, along with other oral procedures, will require the use of general anesthesia.

Your dentist will know when surgery is appropriate

If you show signs of any of these problems, you should not wait any longer to visit your dentist. Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine the type of surgery you need. Some procedures may occur immediately, depending on the dentist’s discretion. You can avoid long-term oral health issues and pain by getting the help you need. Make an appointment today with your dentist so you can discuss what makes the most sense for you and your needs.

Request an appointment here: https://www.southfloridadentalarts.com or call South Florida Dental Arts at (305) 230-4041 for an appointment in our Miami office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.