Oral surgery is any surgical procedure your dentist performs on your teeth, gums, or oral tissues. Getting oral surgery is typically easier than getting regular surgery, which frequently involves general anesthesia, lengthy hospital stays, and a difficult recovery process. Most oral surgeries are performed under local anesthesia as outpatient procedures so that you can go home after your treatment.

Oronoco Dental offers a variety of excellent oral surgery procedures, including:

• Tooth extraction

While it’s always preferable to keep the natural structures of your teeth as intact as possible, there are some cases where a troublesome tooth can cause more damage than it’s worth, such as decay that’s too extensive or trauma that’s beyond restorative repair. Tooth extraction can also be indicated for orthodontic treatment. if the patient has severe crowding. Dr. Kim administers local anesthetic before extracting your tooth, preventing any pain or discomfort during your procedure. After your extraction, Dr. Kim might suggest replacing the missing tooth with a restorative dentistry procedure, like a dental implant or dental bridge.

• Bone grafting

Bone grafting is a procedure that augments and maintains the bone quantity in your jaw. Dr. Kim might recommend bone grafting to help protect you from bone loss after extraction or to build more substantial bone tissue in preparation for a dental implant. To perform the procedure, it is commonly performed at the time of tooth extraction. She cleans out the socket, adds bone grafting material and sutures above a collagen shield or membrane. As you heal, the grafting material bonds to your bone, enhancing the bone’s strength and structure.

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma enhances your recovery after you’ve had oral surgery by minimizing postoperative pain and promoting faster healing. Dr. Kim takes a sample of your blood, then processes it to isolate its platelets (a component of your blood that plays an important role in clotting and healing). She then introduces the platelet-rich plasma into your surgery site, where it significantly speeds up and enhances your recovery process.

The specifics of your recovery vary depending on the type of oral surgery performed and the individual’s health condition.

Dr. Kim sends you home with a detailed set of aftercare instructions to help minimize any post-operative discomfort and make you heal as quickly as possible. If you have any questions about your postoperative recovery, call the office, and speak with one of the knowledgeable team members.