Oral Surgery Castle Rock, CO
Oral surgery can address several different dental issues that have persisted over time. This solution may be able to address any jaw, bone, or teeth irregularities. If you have chronic dental problems that have not responded to non-invasive treatment, oral surgery may be right for you.
Oral surgery is available at Founders Dental in Castle Rock and the surrounding area. For many patients, oral surgery is the solution they need after other dental treatments have failed. Call us today at (720) 893-7362 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Understanding Oral Surgery
As recognized by the American Dental Association, oral and maxillofacial surgery deals with diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries, and defects involving the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region. "Oral" refers to the mouth, and "maxillofacial" refers to the jaw and face. Since the field may address both aesthetic and functional areas of these regions, there are many different types of oral and maxillofacial surgeries. Oral surgery is a long-established and well-researched area of study that is safe when conducted by a qualified professional.
“Because the field may address both aesthetic and functional areas of these regions, there are many different types of oral and maxillofacial surgeries.”
Reasons for Oral Surgery
Oral surgery may help with several conditions. Some of the most common include:
- Tooth Loss. Losing natural teeth can erode the jawbone over time, making deterioration an inevitability. Dental implants can prevent this from happening by anchoring the false teeth to the jawbone and stabilizing them.
- Impacted Teeth. Teeth are "impacted" when they become trapped between the jawbone and the gum tissue. Usually, this happens because the tooth has not emerged in proper alignment or entirely through the gumline. Generally, dentists will recommend patients have these removed.
- Orthodontics. Oral surgery is sometimes necessary when braces are not enough to correct malocclusion (a misaligned bite). In such cases, a dental professional works with a surgeon to build a personalized treatment plan for the patient's orthognathic surgery (corrective jaw surgery).
It is important to remember that the above list is not exhaustive. Patients should consult with a professional to ensure which treatment option is right for them.
“Oral surgery may help with several conditions.”
Preparing for Oral Surgery
To prepare for oral surgery, patients should follow these guidelines:
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing
- Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and watches.
- Wear flat-soled shoes that support your ankles
- Remove fingernail polish.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for 24 hours before surgery.
Immediately before surgery, the patient should brush their teeth and rinse their mouth thoroughly to help lower the risk of infection. To ensure a smooth recovery, they should have ice packs, medications, and easy-to-eat food ready at home. Common foods include cottage cheese, scrambled eggs, and pudding.
“There is no shame in asking questions. Being informed about what is going to happen and why can do a great deal to assuage any fears.”
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What to Expect from Oral Surgery
Many patients find it benefits them to arrive at least 20 minutes early on the day of the surgery. Having extra time before their appointment gives them the opportunity to complete any paperwork and relax. Additionally, patients with removable dental devices should come with a container to store them in during surgery.
“Many patients find it benefits them to arrive at least 20 minutes early on the day of the surgery, allowing them to complete any paperwork and relax.”
Recovering from Oral Surgery
Patients should plan to spend the day resting after oral surgery. The drowsiness of the sedative will likely last all day, making it important for patients to avoid doing anything that requires concentration. Patients should also refrain from straining to avoid dislodging any blood clots and causing bleeding. They should also keep their heads elevated whenever they are lying down.
Above all, it is crucial to follow the dentist's instructions for your individualized treatment plan. If you contract a fever, develop pus, or notice your swelling and bruising getting worse after three days, call our office right away.
“Patients should plan to spend the rest of the day resting after oral surgery.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How should I prepare for oral surgery?
Q. What will happen on the day of my oral surgery?
Q. How can I speed up my recovery from oral surgery?
People Also Ask
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long will my face swelling last after oral surgery?
A. Facial swelling is likely in the first 24 hours following oral surgery. Typically, this lasts for five to seven days, with varying degrees of intensity. Once the swelling has subsided, you will probably notice some bruising. This should fade considerably by the 10-day mark.
Q. When can I return to my normal diet after oral surgery?
A. Most patients can return to their regular diet about a week after oral surgery. This is a gradual change, and you should avoid any spicy or acidic foods until then. You will need to stick to liquids and soft foods for the first two days following surgery. You can start incorporating low-chew foods on day three.
Q. What causes a "dry socket" after oral surgery?
A. "Dry sockets," or alveolar osteitis, are blood clots that appear in extraction sites and break down prematurely. These usually result from overexertion, smoking, and poor oral hygiene during the postoperative period. Sometimes, they happen without a clear cause. Symptoms include bad breath, foul odor and taste, and increased pain. If you suspect you have developed a "dry socket," contact our office immediately.
Q. Is oral surgery painful?
A. Our team will administer a local anesthetic prior to the surgery, numbing the treatment area so you will feel little to no discomfort. However, you will likely feel some pain after surgery once the numbing agent has worn off. We can give you recommendations or prescribe appropriate medication to help manage this pain.
Q. Can I drive myself to and from my oral surgery?
A. Some patients feel comfortable driving themselves home after oral surgery. However, there are cases when patients should make plans for someone they trust to drive them to and from the procedure. Oral surgery can take a toll on the body and make it dangerous for patients to be on the road immediately afterward.
Quality Dental Services Can Transform Your Smile
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
Oral Surgery Terminology
Learn More Today
Sometimes, only oral surgery can adequately address your dental issues. We at Founders Dental may be able to help. Call us today at 720-893-7362 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2021
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2021
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2021
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- Founders Dental was established in 2022.
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- We serve patients from the following cities: Castle Rock, Sedalia, The Pinery, Larkspur, and Elizabeth
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