Oral Surgery

Oral surgery addresses severe dental conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, and facial structures. The procedure becomes necessary when you experience dental issues such as severe tooth decay, impacted teeth, jaw misalignment, or facial trauma that cannot be treated with basic dental care.

Trained oral surgeons must perform these procedures to avoid risks and achieve positive results. At Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry, our oral surgeons are ready to give you expert care and treatments by utilizing our support for patients through every stage of their surgical journey.

An Overview of Advanced Technology and Patient-Centred Care of Oral Surgery

Oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions involving the mouth, jaws, face, and anatomical structures such as the neck and skull base. Oral surgeons manage issues involving bones, teeth, gums, and soft tissues within the oral and maxillofacial region.

After dental school, oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete hospital-based residency programs that include extensive training in surgery and anesthesia. Depending on the program, their training may include general surgery, plastic surgery, anesthesia, and pathology. This comprehensive training equips them to manage dental and facial issues that go beyond treatment.

Depending on the type of treatment needed, they carry out procedures in dental offices, outpatient centers, or hospitals. Because they can use different levels of anesthesia, patients are comfortable during their procedures. Oral surgery may be necessary when routine dental treatments are insufficient for addressing severe dental conditions.

Purpose of Oral Surgery

Oral surgery is a vital part of dental care, often used to achieve lasting results that cannot be accomplished through non-surgical treatments alone. Procedures such as orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery are frequently performed alongside orthodontic care to align the bite and jaws properly. Prosthetists also work closely with general dentists and other specialists to carry out coordinated treatment plans involving implants, bite correction, and jaw realignment. This collaboration ensures patients receive precise, effective care.

Reasons Why Oral Surgery May Be Required

Oral surgical conditions that require oral surgery include the following:

• Impacted teeth: For example, wisdom teeth that do not erupt as they should, causing pain, infection, or damage.
• Missing teeth: Dental implants give a strong and lasting solution to replace missing teeth.
• Jaw-related issues such as misaligned jaws, TMJ disorders, or bite problems might require surgery.
• Facial injuries, such as broken jaws or cheekbones, are fixed with oral surgery.
• In cases involving oral cancer, cysts, or tumors, a biopsy may be required for diagnosis. Surgical removal might be part of your treatment plan, coordinated with specialists.
• If decay or an abscess is too severe, the tooth may have to be surgically removed.
• If jawbone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be performed to restore sufficient bone structure for dental implants.

Long-Term and Targeted Solutions

Unlike treatments that only address symptoms, oral surgery is designed to resolve the root cause of dental or jaw problems. Here are some long-term benefits:

• Impacted tooth removal provides permanent relief from pain and infection.
• Dental implants replace missing teeth with stable, natural-looking alternatives that help prevent jawbone loss by stimulating bone growth.
• Corrective jaw surgery restores jaw alignment, improving bite function and facial appearance.

These interventions often prevent future complications and reduce the need for additional procedures.

A Critical Part of a Holistic Treatment Plan

Surgical procedures are rarely performed in isolation. They are integrated into a broader treatment strategy involving multiple dental professionals. This multidisciplinary approach enhances treatment outcomes by providing more comprehensive care.

Knowing the surgical process, from diagnosis to recovery, helps you set realistic expectations and reduces anxiety, which can contribute to smoother, more successful outcomes.

Types of Oral Surgery

Oral surgery involves a variety of treatments for teeth, gums, jaws, and facial structures. Learning about these treatments lets you know what will happen and how the surgery is performed. Dental implant surgery is one of the most popular procedures.

1. Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are designed to look and work just like natural teeth and support the health of your jawbone.

Why Patients May Need Dental Implants

Your dentist may recommend dental Implants because of the following:

• Damage to your teeth caused by accidents
• Losing teeth as a result of decay or gum disease
• Congenitally missing teeth (a condition known as hypodontia or anodontia)

When a tooth is missing, the jawbone may start to shrink. An implant takes the place of the tooth root to prevent bone loss.

An Overview of the Dental Implant Procedure

The procedure involves several key stages. They include the following:

• Assessment & Planning: You first undergo imaging to assess your bone health and decide on the best implant placement.
• Tooth Extraction (if needed): Next, teeth that are damaged are removed.
• If the jawbone is weak, bone grafting is done to improve its strength for implant support.
• Implant Placement: A titanium post is surgically placed in the jawbone.
• Osseointegration: The bone takes 3–9 months to join with the implant.
• Abutment Attachment: A connector is used to secure the crown.
• The final step is placing a custom crown to finish the restoration.

Bone Fusion and the Recovery Process

For a dental implant to be successful, it must fuse with the surrounding bone—a process known as osseointegration. This is why implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible material that encourages the jawbone to bond securely over time.

Recovery Phases For Dental Implant Surgery

• First 24 Hours: Focus on rest, managing pain, and eating only soft foods to avoid disturbing the surgical site.

• After 1–2 Weeks: Swelling subsides, and you can gently brush your teeth, avoiding the implant area as advised.

• At 3–9 Months: The bone gradually fuses with the implant in a process called osseointegration. Regular dental checkups during this period help monitor healing and ensure long-term success.

Knowing each stage of recovery helps patients follow postoperative instructions more closely, leading to better outcomes and longer-lasting results.

2. Gum Grafting for Patients with Gum Recession or Advanced Gum Disease

Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is the main reason your dentist may recommend gum grafting, not the milder gingivitis. When you have gingivitis, your gums become red and swollen and may bleed; however, it can be treated and reversed.

If left untreated, it may advance to periodontitis and cause gums and bones to be lost. As gum disease progresses, roots may become visible, teeth may become sensitive, and your smile may be affected. Gum grafting is done to heal the damage and keep your teeth safe.

How Gum Disease Causes Recession

When gingivitis is not treated, it may cause the gums to separate from the teeth, leaving spaces where bacteria can grow. As a result, the bones and tissues in the mouth are lost, often leading to gum recession and tooth loss in the worst cases.

How Gum Grafting Is Performed

The process is comprised of several steps. The procedure starts with administering anesthesia to numb the area. Your dental surgeon then takes tissue from your mouth palate, gums, or from an alternative donor. Depending on your gum health, a connective-tissue graft, a free gingival graft, or a pedicle graft may be used.

Your prosthodontist will clean and prep the skin around the graft. The graft is held in place with stitches and may also be covered by a protective dressing. On average, the procedure takes 1 to 1.5 hours.

Benefits of Gum Grafting

• It helps to prevent tooth sensitivity.
• It protects exposed tooth roots from decay
• It improves the appearance of your smile
• Helps to stop more gum and bone loss

Healing Process

During the first two weeks, you may experience swelling and tenderness. It is recommended that you eat soft foods and use a special mouthwash. After several months, the graft strengthens and looks like natural gum. Taking care of your teeth at home and visiting your dentist regularly will help you maintain your results.

3. Maxillofacial Surgery

Maxillofacial surgery treats severe conditions affecting the face, jaws, bones, and soft tissues. These treatments often require highly skilled surgeons and may be done in a hospital.

Conditions That Need Advanced Surgery

Some of the conditions that could require maxillofacial surgery include the following:

• Accidents or violent events may cause fractures in the jaw, cheekbones, nose, or eye sockets. Maxillofacial surgery helps put the bones back in place to restore their function and aesthetics.

• Correcting cleft lip and palate helps children eat, speak, and breathe more easily. They also improve the look of the face and are usually carried out by a team in a series of steps.

• Pathologic Conditions: Benign or malignant growths and cysts in the face or jaw are removed by surgery. Afterwards, reconstructive surgery may be done to help restore appearance and function.

If the jaw or facial bones are abnormally shaped or grown, surgery is used to correct the problem and restore balance to the face.

4. Reconstructive and Cosmetic Restoration

Maxillofacial surgery mainly focuses on restoring how the face looks and functions. Tissue from other parts of the body may be used for reconstructive purposes. These surgeries help you chew, speak, and breathe better and make your face look better. Successful reconstruction can significantly enhance your confidence and quality of life.

Treating Abnormalities and Tumors

Maxillofacial surgeons mainly diagnose and treat facial tumors and abnormalities. Moving a benign tumor is often done to ease the symptoms it causes. Malignant tumors usually require a more serious surgical approach and are handled by several types of specialists. Cleft lip and palate conditions often require a series of surgeries over time, along with coordinated care involving speech therapy, orthodontics, and other specialties.

Dental and Jaw Reconstruction

Orthognathic (jaw) surgery is used to correct dental and skeletal issues that affect chewing, speaking, breathing, and facial appearance. Common reasons for surgery include developmental conditions such as:

• Overbites
• Underbites
• Open bites
• Facial injuries
• Medical conditions that affect jaw growth.

Jaw misalignment can result from uneven development, trauma, or health conditions. Over time, these issues may become more noticeable and may require surgical correction to restore proper function and appearance.

How Diagnosis is Made and Treatment is Planned

Treatment planning begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including clinical exams, X-rays, 3D imaging, and dental impressions. Most patients receive orthodontic treatment (braces) before and after surgery to optimize results.

Advanced tools like virtual surgical planning and 3D-printed guides are used to enhance precision during surgery.

Customized Treatment

Jaw surgery can involve:

• Upper jaw (maxillary osteotomy)
• Lower jaw (mandibular osteotomy)
• Chin (genioplasty)
• Both jaws simultaneously (bimaxillary osteotomy)

Each treatment plan is personalized to meet the unique anatomical and aesthetic needs of the patient, ensuring that function and aesthetics are improved.

How to Get Ready for Your Oral Surgery (Preoperative Activities)

Researching and Understanding Your Condition and Treatment

Understanding your condition and surgical procedure can greatly reduce stress and help you follow your surgeon’s instructions more effectively. Reliable information can be found on trusted sources or by speaking with your dentist. You should do a background check on your surgeon’s credentials and experience with your specific procedure.

Evaluating Whether the Treatment Is Right for You

Before deciding, make sure you understand:

• Why your dental surgery is needed
• The potential risks and benefits of your dental surgery
• Whether you are healthy enough to undergo the surgery
• Do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you are unsure or uncomfortable.

Consulting With Your Dentist or Surgeon

Ask your provider detailed questions about:

• Your diagnosis
• What will happen during the oral surgery procedure
• The type of anesthesia that the oral surgeon will use. Whether local or general anesthesia.
• Recovery process and time
• Post-surgery care
• Potential complications
• Cost and insurance coverage

Being informed about each stage helps you make confident decisions and manage your expectations. You are also more at ease when undergoing the procedure.

Preparing for Surgery: Setting Up Support

Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you after surgery. Set up a quiet, comfortable recovery space in advance, stocked with soft foods, prescribed medications, and activities to keep you relaxed. Also, ask for some time off work.

Pre-Treatment Protocols

Those who will perform your oral surgery will use imaging, such as 3D scans and dental models, to plan the procedure with precision. Follow all instructions regarding:

• Pre-surgery medications
• Fasting guidelines
• Any additional preparations

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

Proper aftercare is key to healing and preventing complications. Follow your surgeon’s instructions closely to support a smooth recovery.

What to Eat After Surgery

Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods:

• Yogurt
• Smoothies (no straws)
• Mashed potatoes
• Scrambled eggs
• Room-temperature soups

Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, spicy, acidic, or hot foods, which may irritate the surgical site. Never use a straw, as the suction can dislodge the healing blood clot and cause dry socket.

Caring for Your Mouth and Wounds

• First 24 hours: Do not rinse your mouth.
• After 24 hours: Rinse gently with warm saltwater (half a teaspoon of salt in 8 oz of water).
• Avoid brushing around the surgical site initially. When brushing is permitted, use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Do not floss near the surgical site until fully healed.
• You may be given an irrigation syringe about a week post-surgery to clean the area as directed.

Managing Pain

Take pain medication before the anesthesia wears off to stay ahead of discomfort.

Only use medications as prescribed. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often effective. Complete your full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better early.

Contact your surgeon if your pain is uncontrolled or you experience side effects.

Using Oral Devices

Some surgeries involve the use of oral devices such as splints or retainers to aid healing and maintain jaw alignment. You should follow all care instructions carefully.

If your oral device is lost or damaged, contact your surgeon immediately. Improper use can negatively affect recovery and outcomes.

Monitoring for Problems

Watch for signs of infection or complications, including:

• Increased pain or swelling
• Fever
• Pus or drainage
• A bad taste or foul smell

Report any concerning symptoms to your surgeon immediately. In rare cases, untreated infections can lead to serious conditions like sepsis.

Healing Timeline

Some injuries heal faster than others. Recovery may take longer if someone is older, smokes, has health issues such as diabetes, or has a poor diet. You may recover quickly if you are healthy and follow the instructions given by your dentist. Attend your scheduled appointments and tell your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.

Find Efficient Oral Surgery Services Near Me

When dental problems are severe or cannot be fixed by other means, oral surgery may be required. In cases involving impacted wisdom teeth, advanced gum disease, or jaw misalignment, surgery may be a suitable long-term solution.

A board-certified oral surgeon with experience is more likely to handle your procedure safely and successfully. If you require oral surgery, Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry offers expert care and uses the latest technology. Contact us at 310-361-2080 to book your appointment and discuss your treatment plan.