Oral and maxillofacial surgery corrects complex dental and facial conditions that affect function, appearance, and overall well-being. Schedule a consultation today at Smiles of Wilmington in Wilmington, DE, to explore your options.
What Is Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the jaw, face, and mouth. These procedures can correct structural issues, restore function, and improve overall oral health. It’s a specialized field that combines precision, experience, and advanced technology.
- Comprehensive approach: Treats issues like jaw misalignment and facial trauma.
- Expert care: Performed by specialists with advanced surgical training.
- Long-term benefits: Restores function, reduces discomfort, and enhances facial aesthetics.
Preparing For Oral Surgery
Proper preparation helps ensure a smoother procedure and a faster recovery. Your dental care provider will give you personalized instructions to follow before your appointment. Taking the right steps can help you feel more comfortable and confident about your surgery.
- Pre-op restrictions: Guidelines on eating, drinking, and medications before surgery.
- Sedation options: Local anesthesia.
- Aftercare plan: Instructions for post-surgical care, including diet and activity limitations.
Oral Surgery Recovery
Healing times vary depending on the procedure, but proper aftercare is essential for the best results. Following your dental care provider’s instructions can reduce discomfort and speed up healing. Taking it easy for a few days will help your body recover properly.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescribed medications help with discomfort.
- Diet modifications: Soft foods and hydration aid in a smoother recovery.
- Post-op care: Proper hygiene and follow-up visits ensure optimal healing.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, discomfort, and other oral health issues if left untreated. Removing them can prevent long-term complications and keep your smile healthy. The procedure is common, quick, and helps protect your overall oral health.
- When extraction is needed: When teeth are misaligned, or causing discomfort.
- Procedure overview: Teeth are extracted under anesthesia for a comfortable experience.
- Recovery process: Swelling and temporary dietary changes are common during healing.
Dental Implant Placement
Dental implants provide a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They restore function, help maintain bone structure, and enhance the appearance of your smile. The procedure is a long-term investment in both oral health and confidence.
- Implant structure: A surgically placed post serves as a foundation for restorations.
- Advantages: Helps prevent bone loss, improves chewing, and restores aesthetics.
- Procedure timeline: Healing time varies before the final restoration is placed.
Bone Grafting
If the jawbone isn’t strong enough to support dental implants, bone grafting may be necessary. This procedure helps rebuild bone structure, creating a solid foundation for future restorations. Your provider will discuss the best approach for your needs.
- Bone grafting purpose: Strengthens the jaw for long-term stability.
- Healing phase: Several months may be required before implants are placed.
Emergency Care
Facial trauma or severe dental emergencies often require immediate surgery. Getting timely care can prevent complications and restore both function and appearance. If you need urgent treatment, don’t wait to seek help.
- Types of emergencies: Knocked-out teeth, fractures, and severe infections.
- Urgent intervention: Emergency evaluation and surgical treatment.
- Follow-up care: Monitoring and rehabilitation to ensure proper healing.
Meticulous Care, Exceptional Smiles
Surgical expertise makes a difference when it comes to oral health, function, and aesthetics. At Smiles of Wilmington in Wilmington, DE, we provide patient-centered care with a focus on precision and long-term success. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
