Learning More About Oral Surgery at Gearin Aesthetic and General Dentistry
When is a procedure considered oral surgery?
A procedure is considered oral surgery when we need to cut or remove something like a tooth, a tumor, or an infection, or when we need to stitch you up.
What are the common types of oral surgery procedures, and why might they be necessary?
Oral surgery includes procedures like removing a tooth, treating an infection, placing a dental implant, or repairing trauma to the face or jaw from an accident. It can also involve checking out or removing lesions or sores in the mouth.
Oral surgery procedures are necessary to ensure your mouth remains healthy, especially if there is a potential problem that could arise in the future.
What does maxillofacial surgery mean?
Maxillofacial surgery refers to any procedure involving your jaw or face.
What's going to happen during oral surgery?
All procedures begin with a complete consultation. What happens during oral surgery depends on the procedure and your specific needs. We always administer an anesthetic, whether it's local or general anesthesia. We ensure the problem is corrected and that you're not going to have any complications afterward. We also review post-operative expectations and remedies with you.
It is important that you have a friend or relative bring you home if you've undergone sedation. Oral surgery is quickly, comfortably, and easily done in our office at your own convenience, and we are here to help with any post-operative complications.
Some of the most common surgeries that we perform on a regular basis include:
- Extractions
- Dental implants
- Wisdom tooth removal
Who is a Good Candidate for Oral Surgery?
To determine if you're a good candidate for oral surgery, we will perform an exam, take x-rays and review your medical history. This allows us to determine if you're healthy enough to undergo the procedure that is needed. Surgery can be performed on young and older patients, and it is done on an as needed basis. We are here to help answer any questions that you might have regarding oral surgery.
Can a regular dentist do oral surgery or do you need to see a specialist?
It depends on the procedure, your needs, and any concerns you have. General dentists are trained to perform oral surgery procedures, but we may refer you to a specialist depending on complications or special needs.
If you prefer general sedation or if there are health-related complexities, we might recommend an oral surgeon. We'll make that determination after evaluating your concerns and problems.
How can you prepare for oral surgery?
We provide instructions beforehand. This often includes information on any medications to take before the procedure, what to eat, what to wear to the appointment, and what to expect afterward. We'll review all of these details with you beforehand.
What are your anesthesia options?
We offer local sedation and oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a prescription beforehand. For procedures requiring general anesthesia, we refer you to an oral surgeon, as we do not perform general anesthesia in our office.
Can you drive yourself home after oral surgery?
If you have local anesthesia, like dental lidocaine, you can drive yourself home. However, if you've had oral conscious sedation or general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
How can you minimize pain after an oral surgery procedure?
The best way to minimize pain is to follow our instructions. We prescribe necessary medications and provide specific guidelines. Adhering to our instructions is the best way to avoid complications.
How long does it take to recover from oral surgery?
You will typically feel the effects for a couple of weeks, but peak sensitivity or discomfort usually diminishes after a few days.
If you live in or near Las Vegas, NV, and are looking for dental care, contact us at (702) 710-8847 to set an appointment. Our staff would love to talk with you!