Dental Surgeries That Can Restore Your Smile and Oral Health

Overview

It’s common for patients to feel panicked and scared when their dentist mentions dental surgery. The misconception is that it’s a painful and expensive procedure. However, many people need to realise that dental surgery is quite common and can address various conditions that people suffer from. 

Each patient is unique, and their case is treated accordingly. Most dental surgeries are outpatient, allowing patients to resume their normal activities within a few days.

Before determining if you’re a candidate for dental surgery, dentists usually refer their patients to an oral surgeon.

These specialists assess the situation and your oral health to determine the best action. In some cases, depending on the severity of the condition, nonsurgical treatments may be recommended by oral surgeons. 

It’s important to note that both adults and children are at risk for oral health issues, but not all surgeries are a result of oral health conditions.

Interestingly, some of the most common types of dental surgery are procedures that people may not even consider as dental surgery because they are so routine. These include orthodontic work and teeth whitening.

Dental Surgeries That Can Restore Your Smile and Oral Health

1. Root canal surgery

Don’t worry if your dentist or endodontist suggests a root canal procedure to fix a damaged or diseased tooth. This treatment has saved millions of teeth annually, relieving pain and restoring dental health.

Deep inside your tooth, beneath the enamel and dentin, there’s a soft tissue called pulp. This pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, which play an essential role in the growth of your tooth’s root during development. 

Once your tooth fully develops, it can function without the pulp since it nourishes the surrounding tissues. Don’t worry about root canal treatments anymore; they’re not as scary as they are said to be! They’re just like regular fillings and can usually be done in just one or two visits, depending on your tooth’s condition and circumstances.

The procedure is highly effective. Before you know it, you can smile, bite, and chew again.

2. Reconstructive dental surgery

Accidents can happen at any time, and when they result in facial damage, it can be a frightening and stressful experience. That’s why it’s essential to seek the expertise of an oral surgeon who can provide solutions to help you regain your confidence quickly.

Dental surgery for facial reconstruction can be divided into two categories. 

• Soft tissue injuries – Soft tissue injuries involve damage to the skin or gums, such as cuts on the inside of the lips, cheek, or tongue.
• Fractures- They can also include lacerations on the soft or hard palate. On the other hand, fractures involve the small bones in your mouth and may require reconstruction of the jawbone and teeth. 
  In more severe cases, more extensive reconstructive surgeries may be necessary to address injuries to the nasal cavities and forehead. Dental implants and other treatment methods may occasionally repair jaw alignments and bone structure.

3. Wisdom tooth extraction

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a surgical procedure involving removing one or more of these teeth located at the back of your mouth. If a wisdom tooth is causing pain or infection because it doesn’t have enough space to grow, it will need to be extracted. This is done by making incisions and stitching up the extraction site to help it heal. 

Dentists can perform the procedure. Some dental professionals may even recommend removing wisdom teeth before they cause any problems to prevent future issues. Recovery usually takes a few days, so it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid complications like excessive bleeding or blood clots.

4. Dental implants surgery

Dental implants act as replacements for the roots of missing teeth and are made from lightweight and biocompatible titanium and titanium alloy. Unlike fixed bridgework or dentures, dental implants fuse with your jawbone, providing a stable and secure foundation for crowns. 

They also prevent bone damage and do not decay like natural teeth. It is essential for the bone to properly fuse with the implants before attaching the tooth restoration.

This can take two to six months to ensure a successful outcome. This entire process of getting dental implants can span several months, allowing for healing and the growth of new bone in the jaw. Depending on individual circumstances, specific steps may be combined or modified.

5. Cosmetic dental surgery 

There are various types of cosmetic dental surgery available. Often, these procedures are not medically necessary but are done to enhance a person’s appearance. Cosmetic treatments range from simple teeth whitening to more complex procedures like orthodontics. 

Smile makeovers combine procedures such as teeth whitening, dental veneers, bonding, or composite restoration. Brightening teeth is not limited to bleaching alone. Techniques like bonding and veneers are also used to correct discolouration or stains.

Teeth whitening is a highly sought-after and effective procedure in cosmetic dentistry. This non-invasive treatment can significantly brighten your smile, using safe and powerful bleaching agents to eliminate stains and discolouration from the enamel. 

If you choose to go for in-office teeth whitening or use at-home kits recommended by your dentist, you can significantly improve the whiteness of your teeth and achieve a dazzling smile.

Veneers are bonded to the front surface of your teeth, offering an excellent solution for improving the appearance of teeth with imperfections such as cracks, chips, gaps, or severe discolouration. Additionally, veneers can enhance the shape and size of your teeth, creating a symmetrical and uniform smile.

Veneers’ durability and longevity provide a reliable solution for achieving a flawless smile. Some patients even opt for tooth shaping to improve the physical shape of their teeth. 

You can achieve this by either removing tooth enamel or filing the teeth. These cosmetic procedures are typically painless and can be performed at your dentist’s office without requiring an oral surgeon. 

6. Dental crown

It is a cap for damaged teeth. It is usually made through various materials such as porcelain or metal. You could have a crown over your molar that you rarely see, or you could see crowns on your front teeth designed to match your other teeth. There are various essential factors that you need to consider, such as:

• Strength 
• Durability
• Cost

You may need a crown if your tooth is cracked, weakened, severely worn down, or has a large cavity too big for a filling. It is also recommended for individuals who went through a root canal procedure because the tooth needs protection as it is more fragile.

Tips to recover from dental surgery

Minimise Strain on Your Mouth 

Avoid excessive talking, eating, or moving your mouth to minimise strain on your mouth after surgery. By doing so, you can promote a faster healing process.

Rest and Allow Your Body to Heal 

Resting is crucial for conserving energy and aiding in the healing process. Stay in bed and give your body the time it needs to recover. 

Opt for Soft Foods 

Choosing soft foods can be beneficial for your healing. Smoothies, yoghurt, soups, and purees are gentle options that won’t strain your mouth unnecessarily. 

Stay Hydrated for Healing 

Drink plenty of water as it helps keep the surgical site clean. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to aid in your recovery.

Limit Tobacco and Alcohol

Reducing your consumption of tobacco and alcohol is essential for maintaining a robust immune system and promoting healing after surgery.

Utilise a Cold Compress 

A cold compress can help alleviate swelling and reduce inflammation in your mouth. This simple technique can provide relief during the healing process.

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your mouth clean and preventing infection. Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical teeth. 

Consider Pain Medication

If you experience discomfort, taking pain medication can help reduce swelling and conserve energy for healing. Consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate options.

Be Vigilant for Infection

While following the above steps can minimise the risk of infection, it is essential to watch for any signs. Watch for excessive swelling, redness, or regression in the healing process and seek medical attention if necessary.

Star Health’s Dental Coverage

Dental insurance from Star Health helps you get the financial assistance required to treat medical procedures for dental issues. You can avail the hospitalisation expenses and consultation expenditures as per the limits mentioned in the policy clause.

To summarise

It’s always possible to restore your beautiful smile through dental surgeries with budding medical technology. Your dentist might suggest the best way forward to restore your teeth. Follow the tips above to recover from dental surgery.

FAQs