What Is Dental Surgery and How Is It Used?

When you hear the term dental surgery, all sorts of images come to mind. What you may not know is that many of the procedures used as part of cosmetic and restorative dentistry are somewhat simple and minimally invasive. While there are certainly more comprehensive procedures that require hours to manage, others can be done in a short amount of time and require little in the way of a healing period. Here are some things you should know, especially if your dentist is recommending some sort of procedure.

A Working Definition

Dental surgery is a collective term for a number of procedures that a dentist may perform. These procedures may be used to correct damage to the teeth, replace teeth that are beyond repair, or improve the general appearance and function of the teeth.

The different types of dental surgery in Markham, Ontario can range from procedures that are performed by a family dentist to more complicated ones that are only performed by an oral surgeon. While most procedures can be performed in dental clinics, there are times when the surgeon will schedule the patient for a procedure at a local hospital.

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What Are Some Examples of Dental Surgery?

What are the types of dental surgery? There are several categories or classes for procedures that repair, replace, or otherwise improve the function of the teeth. Here are some examples of the more common types.

Prosthodontics have to do with adding some sort of prosthetics to repair damaged teeth. Crowns caps, veneers, are some examples of additions that can be used to correct problems like broken or cracked teeth. While the focus is on stabilizing and restoring a measure of strength to the damaged tooth, these procedures can also improve the appearance.

Filings are another example of a prosthetic that is good for the tooth in more than one way. After removing the decayed portion, the cavity is filled and often capped. The result is a tooth that is stronger and has the appearance of being whole. It’s possible to use a composite material that’s tinted to match the hue of the rest of the tooth.

Orthodontics focuses on replacing damaged teeth. This can include extracting any teeth that cannot be repaired and replacing them with dental bridges, dentures, or implants.

Periodontics focuses on correcting any infections or issues that undermine the function of the gums. Doing so helps to prevent damage to the tooth root and can also help keep the bones from being weakened. This is important, since problems with the jawbone or the gums can loosen the teeth and trigger a number of other issues.

Oral surgery refers to situations when the damage is extreme. It may be the result of damage sustained during an accident or because of serious health issue. The goal is to restore the integrity of the jaw, the teeth, and the gums. Along with restoring your appearance, the surgery also restores lost function.

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What Motivates The Dental Professional to Recommend Certain Procedures?

The approach to dental surgery recommended by your dental professional is influenced by several factors. One is the nature of the dental problem. Your general health is also taken into account. Your age will also play a role in determining what types of procedures would be in your best interests.

At times, a single procedure will correct the issue. If there is the need to employ several procedures, the professional will go over the possibilities with you and then come up with a definitive oral surgery procedures list. That makes it easier to prioritize the procedures, develop a time line for performing each one, and provide an idea of how much recuperative time you need to set aside.

Are there Risks?

It’s true that any form of dental surgery comes with risks. The good news is that modern dentistry has made it possible to eliminate some risks and minimize others. It’s highly likely that you will not experience any complications during the surgery or while you are recovering. Even if you do, there are ways to deal with those issues quickly.

Is dental surgery dangerous? In many ways, it’s safer than other forms of medical surgery. The primary danger comes from forgetting to provide the dentist with information about your health history. That includes any current chronic issues you manage from day to day. Remember that your dentist needs to know if you have a condition like type 1 or type 2 diabetes, currently take medication for a heart condition, or are pregnant. All of those factors will influence the choices for procedures and the safeguards that are taken during the surgery.

Remember you also need to be forthcoming about the medications you take. In some cases, you may need to avoid taking them during the 24-hour period prior to the surgery. This is especially true for any medication that thins the blood or causes drowsiness.

Read more: Why Is It Important to Get Teeth Cleaned?

Understanding the Need for Preparation

Prior to your dental surgery, the surgical team will provide a list of things you should prepare in advance. That includes arranging for someone to transport you to and from the procedure, fill pain prescriptions in advance, arrange time off from work, and buy foods and beverages that are nutritious and will not require chewing. These and anything else of the list will help to minimize the potential for slowing the healing process and also ensure you experience a minimum of pain while you recover.

Your Comfort During the Procedure

Sedation is often used during different forms of dental surgery, especially if the procedure is more complex. Your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure. Thanks to the sedation, you won’t remember anything about the procedure, or be aware of any pain while the work is in progress.

Managing the Cost

How much does it cost for dental surgery? That will depend on the nature of the procedure(s) that you undergo. In many cases, dental insurance will cover the bulk of the cost. If you don’t have insurance or need help covering your copays and deductibles, ask about any medical lenders your dentist works with. It doesn’t take long to apply and you’ll find repaying the loan for the dental surgery cost to be an easy process.

Do you need a procedure? Have it done as quickly as possible. Make whatever arrangements necessary to manage the dental surgery cost, plan for any needed time off, and make sure you have everything at home to be comfortable during the recovery. Once everything is done and things are back to normal, you will enjoy having teeth that are healthy and look their best.