Need Oral Surgery? Call Us Today
If you need oral surgery, call us at 623-544-0700 to schedule an appointment with our Sun City West, AZ office. At Sunridge Dental Care, we offer the surgical procedures necessary to maintain or restore your oral health. Whether you're seeking a new dentist or need more advanced care from your current provider, we’re here to help. We’ll assess your needs, discuss potential procedures, and explain what to expect. Feel free to ask questions to ensure you feel informed and at ease. In the meantime, check out some common questions we receive at our Sun City West, AZ office.
Why Do People Need Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery may be needed for three main reasons:
- Health Concerns: Tooth decay is prevalent, and with regular dental visits, it can often be detected and treated early. However, when dental care is neglected, decay can progress to the point where the tooth may need to be removed or treated with a root canal. Additionally, surgery might be required to address issues with your gums, such as gum disease or recession, which may necessitate a gum graft.
- Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth can sometimes become impacted and cause discomfort, even if they don’t present an immediate health risk. Removing these teeth can help prevent infections and avoid shifting other teeth out of alignment.
- Cosmetic Reasons: Oral surgery is also performed for cosmetic purposes, such as replacing missing teeth with dental implants. Implants are a durable and secure solution, involving the placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, which integrates with the bone through osseointegration. This process, which takes a few months, provides a stable foundation for a new tooth, making it as secure as a natural one. For more information about this procedure, call 623-544-0700 to schedule an appointment with our office.
Is Oral Surgery Used in Orthodontics?
Yes, oral surgery can be used in orthodontics. One common issue orthodontists address is overcrowding, which may sometimes require creating additional space in the mouth. This can involve extracting one or more teeth to facilitate proper alignment. While not always necessary, tooth extraction may be recommended as part of the treatment plan.
Additionally, orthodontists often work on jaw alignment issues, such as overbites or underbites. While many cases can be treated non-invasively, severe misalignments may require oral surgery to adjust the position of the jaw. The need for oral surgery as part of your orthodontic treatment will be discussed during your initial consultation.
How do I prepare for oral surgery?
At Sunridge Dental Care, we prioritize your comfort and preparation for your procedure. We believe in thorough patient education and will walk you through each step of the process. While this overview is general, we will provide personalized instructions tailored to your specific needs.
Generally, you should avoid eating for a few hours before the procedure, potentially starting the night before, as this is standard when receiving anesthesia. We also recommend having ice packs ready in the freezer and stocking up on soft foods and plenty of water. Additionally, make sure to have ibuprofen on hand to help manage any discomfort. We want you to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so feel free to ask any questions or raise concerns beforehand.
Can you provide oral surgery if I'm already seeing another dentist?
Yes, we can perform oral surgery even if you're currently seeing another dentist. When you visit our Sun City West, AZ office, please inform us if your current dentist has recommended surgery. If you wish to continue with your current dentist after the procedure, that’s fine. Otherwise, we welcome you as a new patient to our practice.
What is the recovery like from oral surgery?
Recovery from oral surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed. Generally, you can expect some temporary bleeding, which can be managed with the gauze we provide. Swelling is common and is often the main source of discomfort. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to your face for 15 minutes at a time, followed by 15-minute breaks. Use a light cloth to protect your skin from irritation. Ibuprofen can help manage both swelling and pain; ice is typically used for the first day or two, while ibuprofen may be needed for a week or so.
We might also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. For food, stick to soft items that are easy to chew, such as soups and steamed vegetables. Preparing these foods in advance can simplify your recovery. Be sure to follow our post-surgery instructions closely and avoid overexerting yourself to ensure proper healing.
