Common Oral Surgery Services Explained
Learn about common oral surgery services, including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, extractions, bone grafting, and jaw-related procedures.
Oral surgery includes procedures involving the teeth, gums, jaw, mouth, and facial structures. Some oral surgery services are simple and performed in a dental office, while others require a specialist known as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons notes that wisdom teeth extraction and dental implants are among the most common oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. Use our oral surgery services hub or oral surgeons near me directory to find a provider.
Tooth extractions
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth. Some extractions are simple, while others are surgical.
A simple extraction may be performed by a general dentist or oral surgeon. More complicated extractions may require surgical techniques, especially if the tooth is impacted, broken, or difficult to access. Common reasons for extractions include:
- Severe decay
- Broken teeth
- Infection
- Crowding
- Gum disease
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth removal
Wisdom teeth are third molars that often appear in late teenage years or early adulthood. Some people have enough room for wisdom teeth, while others experience pain, infection, crowding, or impaction. Wisdom teeth removal may be recommended when they:
- Are impacted
- Cause pain
- Create infection risk
- Damage nearby teeth
- Are difficult to clean
- Affect orthodontic treatment
Dental implants
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. The implant is placed into the jawbone and can support a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implant treatment may involve:
- Consultation
- Imaging
- Implant placement
- Healing period
- Abutment placement
- Final crown or restoration
Some patients may need bone grafting before implant placement.
Bone grafting
Bone grafting may be used when there is not enough jawbone to support a dental implant or other treatment. Bone loss can happen after tooth loss, gum disease, infection, or trauma. A dentist or oral surgeon may recommend bone grafting before implant placement.
Jaw surgery
Jaw surgery may be recommended for certain bite problems, jaw alignment issues, facial trauma, or structural concerns. These cases are usually more complex and may involve coordination between an oral surgeon, orthodontist, and other healthcare providers.
Oral pathology and biopsy
An oral surgeon may evaluate unusual lumps, sores, lesions, or tissue changes in the mouth. In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to test tissue and determine whether further treatment is needed.
Facial trauma treatment
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons may treat injuries involving the jaw, mouth, teeth, and facial bones. The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery describes the specialty as involving diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the head, neck, face, jaws, and oral tissues.
When to contact an oral surgery provider
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Severe tooth pain
- Broken tooth requiring surgical removal
- Missing teeth and interest in implants
- Jaw pain or jaw alignment concerns
- Facial injury
- Oral lesion or suspicious tissue change
- Referral from a general dentist
Final thoughts
Oral surgery services range from simple extractions to complex jaw and facial procedures. If you are unsure whether you need a dentist or oral surgeon, start with a dental evaluation. A general dentist can provide routine care and refer you to an oral surgeon when specialized surgical treatment is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What are common oral surgery services?
Common services include tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, bone grafting, oral biopsy, and jaw-related procedures.
Are wisdom teeth removal and dental implants common oral surgery procedures?
Yes. AAOMS identifies wisdom teeth extraction and dental implants among common oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures.
Do I need a dentist or oral surgeon?
Start with a general dentist for routine care or diagnosis. You may need an oral surgeon for complex surgical procedures.
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