What Is Oral Surgery?
Any surgery performed in or near your mouth and jaw is referred to as oral surgery. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon typically performs these operations, which can address anything from jaw alignment to uncomfortable teeth.
Orthodontists sometimes work with Oral surgeons to treat patients that have complex jaw issues or multiple missing teeth. Braces or aligners alone are not enough in certain cases and working in tandem with Oral Surgeons can be helpful to obtain an ideal outcome.
When You Might Be Referred for Oral Surgery
- To remove impacted or crowded wisdom teeth
- To place a dental implant where a tooth is missing
- To correct severe jaw misalignment
- To remove a cyst, lesion, or suspicious tissue
- To place a TAD (temporary anchorage device) during orthodontic treatment
Are you in the New Haven/Shoreline area and have questions about oral surgery?
A free consultation with dobie revolution orthodontics is always available.
Dental Implants
A dental implant replaces a missing tooth using a small post, often titanium, that is inserted into the jawbone. Over time, it fuses with the bone and acts as a stable foundation for a crown or bridge.
Implants are sometimes placed before, during, or after orthodontic treatment, especially if a tooth has been missing for a while and space has been maintained for a permanent replacement.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
The implant procedure is usually done in two parts: first, the post is placed into the jaw. After the area heals (which could take a few months), the crown is attached. Most patients experience mild swelling and soreness for a few days after part one of the procedure. Sometimes it can be done in 3 stages with a healing cap added to the implant a few months after placement to help the tissue heal around it before the crown is placed.
Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is used to correct major jaw misalignment that affects how your teeth fit together. It’s an option if you have difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing due to your jaw structure. The most common jaw surgery is usually for correcting skeletal underbites.
Often, braces or Invisalign are used before and after jaw surgery to make sure everything aligns correctly. Your Orthodontist and surgeon will likely work together to create a treatment plan.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
Under general anesthesia, jaw surgery is carried out at a hospital. Depending on the type of operation, recovery may take a few weeks to several months. After beginning on a soft food diet, patients will progressively resume their regular eating habits. Regular check-ins and follow-up care ensure that you're on the right path to recovery.
Biopsies and Lesion Removal
If you have a sore, growth, or unusual spot in your mouth that doesn’t heal or looks suspicious, your dentist or Orthodontist may refer you for a biopsy or lesion removal. This helps rule out serious conditions and treat a potentially harmful tissue.
Although these procedures may seem intimidating, they are typically brief and cause minimal discomfort. However, early detection is crucial.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
The majority of biopsies are performed during a brief office visit while under local anesthetic. After that, the tissue is submitted to a lab for examination. When stitches are required, you may experience some soreness for a few days, but most people recover quickly and without any problems.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)
TADs are small, screw-like devices placed into the jawbone to give extra support during orthodontic treatment. They act as anchors that move your teeth in the right direction.
TADs are often used when braces or aligners can’t create the movement needed on their own. They’re temporary and are usually removed once orthodontic treatment is done.
What to Expect During and After Placement
Placing a TAD is a quick procedure and is usually done with local anesthesia. You might feel some pressure, but normally no pain. There’s little to no recovery period, and most patients can go back to school or work the same day. You can use saltwater rinses and good oral hygiene to manage any minor irritation in the area.
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What to Expect Before, During, and After Oral Surgery
Your doctor will give you instructions specific to your procedure, but here is a general idea of how the process will go:
Preparing for Surgery
- Follow any instructions about fasting or medications
- Plan a ride home if you’re having sedation
- Ask questions so you know what to expect
- Stock up on soft foods and cold compresses for after your surgery
Common Recovery Timelines and Tips
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Don’t use straws or spit after wisdom teeth removal (to prevent a dry socket)
- Use ice packs for swelling and take medications as directed
- Keep the area clean but don’t brush or rinse with too much pressure
- Follow all care instructions closely to help the healing process
When to Contact Your Surgeon Post-Op
Call your surgeon if you notice:
- Persistent pain after several days
- Worsening swelling
- Excessive bleeding
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, etc.)
- Trouble swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth
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Talk to Dobie Revolution Orthodontics about Oral Surgery and Orthodontic Treatment
Not every orthodontic patient will need oral surgery, but if you do, it helps to know you’re in good hands. At dobie revolution orthodontics, we’ll walk you through the process, explain your options, and connect you with trusted specialists if surgery is needed as part of your treatment.
Have questions about a procedure or your orthodontic care? Give us a call, we’re here to help you feel informed, prepared, and supported!