Category: Oral Surgeon

Wisdom teeth are experienced by majority of people in their lifetime. Whether you have wisdom teeth or you don’t, it is something consistently watched by any dentist you will see. At a certain age, in the late teens, wisdom teeth begin causing issues, which is why they tend to be extracted. Wisdom teeth are also known collectively as the third molar, and may exist in singularly, in pairs, triples, quadruples, and for the unlucky, more than 5 can exist!

As many people understand, wisdom teeth usually result in extraction. Not having these teeth extracted is rare, as they may cause issues, allowing your teeth to shift or grow in the wrong direction. When you decide to go through the extraction process, you will most likely be recommended to an oral surgeon, and undergo IV sedation. Sedation is optional, but extremely recommended. Post extraction care is critical and you should follow your doctor’s instructions for a flawless healing.

Per most advice given by dentists, it would be counterproductive to wash your mouth post-extraction since coagulation of blood takes place thereby sealing off the wound. However, rinsing with warm water is known to dislodge the blood clots thereby extending the process of bleeding. True enough, a wisdom tooth is a problem that can be serious especially given the complications that can arise.

If you experience a dry socket post extraction, your dentist can pack the area, acting as a mock blood clot, to keep debris and unwanted matter out of the site that is healing. Another issue that may arise post extraction is swelling. It is common for your face to swell, because of the impact of the surgery, but your doctor will know how to calm the healing in time.

If in the location where your wisdom teeth exist begins causing serious pain, it is important to see your dentist for it to be checked. If you notice the teeth growing in and it is more than discomfort you may be dealing with the aforementioned issues, such as overcrowding or impacted teeth. Schedule an appointment for an extraction if your dentist agrees they may cause an issue, and ensure you listen to post-op instructions to allow the healing to go as smoothly as possible.

When choosing the dental implant procedure, it is important to pick the right person. Many people can be certified to do dental implants, but oral surgeons have the proper training and schooling for these serious treatment plans. While an oral surgeon and dentist perform similar tasks, there are some key differences that you should understand.

A dentist somebody that is qualified by schooling to practice treating diseases and conditions that affect oral health. Dentists generally go to college to complete their undergraduate degree and then attend dental school to finish their schooling. General dentists are there to treat many forms of oral issues, and preform procedures like root canals, crowns, fillings, and routine teeth cleanings. It is important for a general dentist to understand what good oral health and hygiene consists of and ensures it is maintained.

An oral surgeon is someone who goes through the same schooling as a dentist, and then once dental school is complete, they opt in to specialize in one of nine specialties defined by the American Dental Association:

• Prosthodontics
• Periodontics
• Pediatrics
• Orthopedics
• Orthodontics
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology
• Endodontics
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology

Oral surgeons focus only on dental surgeries and are often called oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Some common surgeries that they handle are wisdom teeth removal, TMJ corrections, defect or injury reconstructions, removal of oral cancer masses and dental implants. Oral surgeons then go on to completing a residency that lasts for a few years, and sometimes maintain a medical degree.

It is important to ensure you are choosing the correct doctor for your specific needs. If you’re thinking of having a major procedure completed, it is important to do your research. Your general dentist may be certified in completing dental implants, but they may also be able to recommend an oral surgeon for the treatment plan. It is also important to know that if you’re oral condition is serious, and more difficult than the average person, seeking help from an oral surgeon may be in your best interest, because with their residency, they’ve been exposed to many different cases.