When it comes to the health of your mouth, it is crucial to understand what specialist is best suited to address your specific issues. Dentists concentrate on preventative care and perform cosmetic and restorative work like bridges, fillings, and even professional teeth whitening. On the other end, an oral surgeon Brooklyn is a highly skilled professional who focuses on surgeries of the face and jaw. The two specialists work together, and dentists will often refer patients to an oral surgeon if an issue requires more advanced care. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Tooth Extractions
Typically, dentists try to save your natural teeth as much as feasible. However, when serious issues arise, immediate tooth removal might be necessary. Some instances when tooth extraction is necessary to include serious discomfort from tooth impaction, bleeding gums, serious decay, misaligned teeth, or cavities.
Some extraction procedures are simple because the tooth is already loose. Unfortunately, in some cases, removing the tooth might require more intrusive oral surgery, demanding a visit to the oral surgeon.
2. Dental Implant Placement
Dental implants have quickly become a common alternative for replacing lost teeth. The procedure entails placing titanium posts into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth root. Your oral surgeon will then add an abutment, and dental crown, which looks and functions like your other natural teeth. Typically, the implant process is quick, and after recovery, patients may resume their normal routine and eat regular foods.
3. Corrective Jaw Surgery
Another major reason to visit an oral surgeon is corrective jaw surgery. Your provider will suggest these procedures to address jaw irregularities to enhance the patient’s ability to breathe, chew, and speak correctly. In fact, jaw surgery generally entails reconstruction and realignment to enhance functionality.
Corrective jaw surgery is also necessary to address bite and dysfunction issues, stemming from congenital disabilities, facial trauma, or accidents. Only a dental surgeon can perform this surgery since it could be extensive and occasionally complicated. After the procedure, patients realize they no longer experience discomfort with their jaw functionality and notice improved balance.
4. Oral Cancer
Identifying some malignant tumors, or those suspected to be cancerous, in a patient’s throat or mouth is virtually impossible. Some patients might only learn they have oral cancer or a tumor that could be cancerous once they visit their general dentist for regular dental cleaning. Thankfully, these tumors could be eliminated surgically.
5. Sleep Apnea Surgery
You might be surprised to learn that dental surgery is sometimes appropriate to address serious sleep apnea cases. Often, patients utilize corrective therapies like mouth appliances, medications, or CPAP machines. However, these measures are insufficient to correct the issue for some patients.
Oral surgery can address a structural problem that could be worsening apnea, such as a tonsil or uvula that is too obstructive or large and affecting breathing. Likewise, the surgery can reposition the tongue or drive a corrective rod to the soft palate to keep the patient’s airway unobstructed.
Dental issues could happen suddenly and over time. The outcomes might be dental damage with serious discomfort and pain, but they could also lead to aesthetic issues. Oral surgery might sound like an extreme treatment action. However, there are situations when a general dentist might suggest patients undergo surgery involving the mouth’s gums, teeth, or soft tissues. Consult your dentist to determine what oral surgical procedure is appropriate for you. Your oral surgeon will ensure that the procedure is safe and effective and that you enjoy a quick and comfortable recovery.
