Expert Care for Your Oral Surgery Needs
If you're in need of oral surgery, call (949) 888-5665 to schedule an appointment at our Rancho Santa Margarita, CA office. At Jordan & Pham Dentistry, we offer a wide range of surgical procedures to improve and maintain your oral health. Only certain dental professionals perform these advanced procedures, so whether you're searching for a new dentist or need more intensive care, we invite you to contact us. Our team will assess your condition, determine if surgery is necessary, and explain the procedure to help you feel informed and confident. We also encourage you to ask any questions you may have about the process.
Why Might Oral Surgery Be Needed?
There are several reasons why oral surgery might be required. One of the most common is health-related. Tooth decay is widespread, and with routine dental visits, we can detect and treat it before it becomes problematic. Unfortunately, many people miss regular check-ups, which can lead to infections. In some cases, the damage is so severe that tooth extraction becomes necessary, or a root canal may be required. Additionally, oral surgery may be needed to address gum issues, such as gum disease or gum recession.
Cosmetic procedures, such as dental implants, are also a reason for oral surgery. Implants offer a long-lasting solution to missing teeth, as they replace both the root and the tooth. This involves the placement of a titanium post under the gums that integrates with the jawbone over time, creating a secure foundation for a new tooth.
Is Oral Surgery Necessary for Orthodontic Treatment?
In some cases, oral surgery may be required in conjunction with orthodontic care. When addressing overcrowding or jaw alignment issues, oral surgery can help create the necessary space or even reposition the jaw. Depending on your specific needs, your orthodontist may recommend a procedure as part of your treatment plan. During your consultation, we will discuss whether surgery is necessary to achieve the best results.
How to Prepare for Oral Surgery
At Jordan & Pham Dentistry, we aim to make your surgical experience as comfortable as possible. Before your surgery, we'll guide you through the process step-by-step. As a general guideline, you may need to refrain from eating for a few hours before the procedure, especially if anesthesia is involved. We also recommend preparing by purchasing ice packs, soft foods, and any medications, like ibuprofen, that might be needed during recovery. Our goal is to ensure you are well-prepared and relaxed.
Can You Perform Oral Surgery if I'm Seeing Another Dentist?
Yes, we can perform oral surgery even if you are currently under the care of another dentist. If your dentist has suggested that you need surgery, let us know when you visit our office. You may choose to continue your dental care with your current provider after the surgery, or if you prefer, we would be happy to welcome you as a new patient.
What Can You Expect During Recovery?
The recovery process will depend on the type of surgery you have, but typically, you will experience some temporary bleeding and swelling. We will give you gauze to control any bleeding and recommend using ice packs to reduce swelling. You should follow the 15-minute on/15-minute off method for applying ice. This means you apply the ice pack to the affected area for 15 minutes, then remove it for 15 minutes, and repeat this cycle to prevent skin damage while reducing swelling.
Along with ice, we suggest taking ibuprofen to help ease any discomfort and inflammation. The swelling should mostly go down within a few days, but you may need to take pain medication for about a week to manage the discomfort.
You may also be prescribed antibiotics to prevent any potential infection. During your recovery, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew or don’t require chewing at all. It's essential to take it easy and follow all of the aftercare instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oral surgery includes procedures like tooth extractions, dental implants, and gum treatments. It is needed when issues like severe decay, infection, or gum disease cannot be treated with basic dental care.
