Prepare for Oral Surgery: What You Need to Know

What is oral surgery?

Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed in or around your mouth and jaw, usually by a dental specialist who’s trained to perform certain kinds of oral surgeries.

How many different types of oral surgery are there?

There are many types of oral surgery, including surgical procedures such as a tooth removal or a root canal. Some oral surgeries involve the repositioning of the jaw. In other instances, oral surgery may involve the removal of a tumor. Oral surgeries might be performed by any one of a number of different kinds of dental specialists, including endodontists, periodontists, and prosthodontists.

What are some common types of oral surgery?

Some of the most common surgeries for teeth and jaw include:

• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Gum graft
• Tooth implants
• Maxillofacial surgery
• Root canal
• Jaw and teeth repair following an injury

When would I need oral surgery?

For tooth and jaw procedures that go beyond the expertise of a general dentist, you might need oral surgery. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, for example, removing them may require you see an oral surgeon. If you suffer from gum disease and have to have a gum graft, you’d be referred to a periodontist who performs those types of oral surgeries.

If you require oral surgery, your general dentist will talk to you about it and refer you to the right provider.

How do I prepare for oral surgery?

Prepare for an oral surgery in the same way you would for any serious medical procedure, depending on the type of surgery. And always make sure to follow your dentist’s direction.

• Start by making sure that the space you’re returning home to is clean and neat, so you’re comfortable for at least a couple of days, if necessary.
• Set up your bed so that, if need be, you can sit at an incline.
• Follow the pre-surgery instructions your oral surgeon gives you. Typically you will be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything in the 8-10 hours before your surgery.
• Arrange for transportation back home, if necessary. Talk to your oral surgeon about what kind of anesthesia you’ll be getting. Some types of anesthesia can inhibit your ability to drive. Depending on the type of oral surgery you’re having you may have a topical or local anesthetic. If you are having an IV anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home.