Are you wondering what oral surgery involves or what qualifies as oral surgery? Look no further! We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know about oral surgery at Route 66 Smiles Family Dentistry.
What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery, often referred to as oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a specialized field in dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries, and defects in the oral and maxillofacial region. This includes the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. Oral surgeons complete an additional four to six years of training beyond dental school, allowing them to perform a variety of surgical procedures involving both soft tissue (gums) and hard tissue (teeth and bone).
What Qualifies as Oral Surgery?
There are several dental conditions that might warrant oral surgery. Let’s explore a few common procedures performed at Route 66 Smiles Family Dentistry:
- Tooth Extractions: While our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth, sometimes an extraction is necessary, such as for severely decayed teeth, problematic wisdom teeth, or to make room for orthodontic treatment.
- Dental Implants: If you have missing teeth, dental implants can provide a sturdy and natural-looking replacement. This procedure involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root to support a crown.
- Oral Pathology: Oral surgery can diagnose and treat diseases of the mouth including oral cancer.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a groundbreaking procedure in dental and oral surgery that harnesses the body’s natural healing abilities. PRP, obtained from the patient’s own blood, is rich in growth factors that speed up the healing process. It is particularly useful in procedures like tooth extractions, dental implant surgery, and treatment of periodontal disease. The application of PRP can significantly enhance bone and soft tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of infections. This innovative approach not only expedites recovery but also improves overall treatment outcomes, offering patients an enhanced experience with less discomfort and downtime.
At Route 66 Smiles Family Dentistry, we are committed to offering top-notch oral surgery services to our patients. Our experienced team ensures a comfortable, safe, and successful surgical experience. If you believe you might benefit from oral surgery, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment.