What Is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery includes procedures involving the teeth, gums, jawbone and surrounding oral tissues. Some procedures may be completed in a dental office, while more complex conditions may require referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or another specialist.
Your provider will explain the diagnosis, appropriate treatment options, alternatives and possible risks before recommending a procedure.
Reasons for an Oral Surgery Evaluation
An evaluation may be recommended for conditions such as:
- A tooth that is severely damaged or cannot be restored
- Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
- Dental infection or swelling requiring surgical assessment
- Preparation for dental implants or restorative treatment
- An oral lesion or unusual tissue requiring further evaluation
- An injury affecting a tooth or its supporting structures
These conditions do not automatically mean surgery is necessary. An examination is required to determine the appropriate treatment or referral.
Evaluation and Treatment Planning
An oral surgery evaluation may include a review of symptoms, medications, allergies and relevant health conditions. The dental team will examine the affected area and may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic images when clinically appropriate.
Tell your provider about prescription and nonprescription medications, tobacco use, previous reactions to anesthesia and medical conditions that could affect healing.
Possible Oral Surgery Procedures
Depending on the diagnosis and provider availability, treatment may include a tooth extraction, evaluation of wisdom teeth, procedures involving supporting bone or soft tissue, or referral for specialty care.
Treatment involving replacement of a missing tooth may also be coordinated with dental implant planning. Available procedures may vary by South Dental location.
Preparing for and Recovering from Treatment
Preparation and recovery instructions depend on the procedure and type of anesthesia or pain control being considered. Follow the personalized instructions provided by your dental professional before and after treatment.
Contact your provider if you experience unexpected or worsening symptoms after a procedure. Seek urgent medical assistance for difficulty breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding or another medical emergency.
Request an Oral Surgery Evaluation
Contact South Dental to request an evaluation and determine whether oral surgery, another dental treatment or a specialist referral may be appropriate.
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Oral surgery — frequently asked questions
Do wisdom teeth always need to be removed?
Not always. An examination and X-rays determine whether wisdom teeth should be monitored or removed.
What should I tell my provider before oral surgery?
Your medications, allergies, tobacco use, previous reactions to anesthesia and medical conditions that could affect healing.
When should I seek urgent help after a procedure?
Contact your provider for worsening symptoms. Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing or swallowing, or uncontrolled bleeding.
How long is recovery after an extraction?
Most people feel better within a few days, though full healing takes longer. Following your aftercare instructions helps you recover comfortably.
Can a missing tooth be replaced after an extraction?
Yes. Options such as dental implants, bridges or dentures can replace a missing tooth. Your dentist will go over the choices with you.
This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis. Treatment recommendations require an individual examination, and service availability may vary by location.