Oral surgery is generally performed by qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Occasionally dentists and orthodontists perform some forms of oral surgery. An oral surgeon is a specialty surgeon of dentistry. They work at diagnosing, treating and managing patients who have an array of defects and conditions related to the teeth, mouth, facial area and jaw.
Reasons
There are several different reasons why a patient may visit an oral surgeon for dentoalveolar surgery or surgeries related to the mouth and gums. Extraction of wisdom teeth, molars, cracked or impacted teeth; removal and repair of infected teeth, cysts and gums due to periodontal disease; placement of dental implants, partials and false teeth; surgical correction of fractures, congenital and facial deformities and performing cosmetic procedures to repair damage due to diseases that affect the bones of the mouth and jaw. A dentist may also make a referral to an oral surgeon to further evaluate or diagnose certain types of oral cancer such as lip and tongue cancer. They can surgically remove tissue, perform biopsies and make additional referrals if necessary. Oral surgeons can also diagnose and surgically treat most cases of obstructive sleep apnea---a serious condition where someone stops breathing while he is sleeping.
Expectations
Upon arriving at an appointment, knowing what to expect is important. Initially you will likely meet with a dental hygienist or the surgeon to discuss the procedure that will be performed. One of the first things they may do is take a panoramic X-ray of the jaw and head if a recent one is not on file. Then the hygienist will begin to prepare you for surgery. There are different options available. A mild sedative to help you relax may initially be used, this is called nitrous oxide. It is typically administered via a nasal cannula or mask. Pills that contain a mild sedative may also be used. IV sedation is a popular form of mild anesthesia used by many oral surgeons; it doesn't put the patient to sleep but makes them less aware of their surroundings. Novocaine is a shot that is used to numb areas of the mouth and jaw. After the procedure, the surgeon may write a prescription for pain medication so that you will feel comfortable at home.
Considerations
It is advised to report all health conditions and drugs that are being taken before surgery. Some medications such as blood pressure or heart rate medications may be affected because the Novocaine contains epinephrine that can slightly raise blood pressure and heart rate. Mitral valve prolapse (a heart condition) may also be affected by having an increase in heart rate after the Novocaine has been administered. Existing health conditions such as hemophilia (a blood disorder) could lead to uncontrolled bleeding in the mouth if care is not taken. Anyone who has allergies to pain medications or concerns over oral anesthetic should consult with the surgeon prior to surgery.
Effects
The effects of receiving oral surgery are mainly on the beneficial side. This means that most pain or discomfort felt prior to surgery will likely diminish because the tooth is gone or the jaw has been fixed. Some people who have received some of the stronger anesthesia or sedation such as the IV sedation or a strong narcotic such as Valium should have someone take them home after the surgery.
Benefits
The benefits to seeking oral surgery range from pain relief to a cosmetically new face. The fact is that many people seek oral surgery to rectify a problem that must be corrected or over time it could cause permanent damage to their mouth or face. In cases where teeth are impacted, infected or growing in the wrong direction, there is physical relief in having the teeth removed. For those who suffer from breathing or swallowing disorders, oral surgery also improves their overall quality of life.
