Dental surgery is something that is done for cosmetic, restorative, or functional care. Any dental treatment that requires anesthesia is considered surgery. It is not the same thing as sedation dentistry. Dental surgery in Richmond, VA can involve things like bone grafts, dental implant preparation, periodontal repair, extractions, and jawbone correction. The following will cover a few basics about dental surgery and what to expect from it.
Periodontal Care
Periodontal disease is virtually unnoticed until it gets relatively bad. The first sign of periodontal disease is bleeding gums which is also called gingivitis. You can manage and control tartar and plaque to prevent tooth and jawbone deterioration caused by periodontal issues, but there is no known cure for periodontal disease. Dentists use laser technology to restructure the gum line. Prevention is best, but if you have to go through laser surgery for periodontal disease, follow the after care instructions provided by your dentist.
Bone Grafts
When the structure of your upper and lower jaw line has supporting bone issues, bone grafts are often done to prevent problems with your jaw and facial structure. This surgery is done under anesthesia and bone can be taken from behind your ear to improve your supporting bone structure in your mouth. People who desire dental implants often have to undergo bone grafts in preparation for the implants. Many people do not have ample supporting bone for tooth implants.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
It is recommended that your child have their wisdom teeth removed as early as possible to prevent future problems like overcrowding, and mouth pain. Some wisdom teeth are extracted easily and others have to be cut and separated for removal. After care is essential to the patient in this case. Keep your child out of school for a few days and follow the recommendations and instructions of the dentist.
These are only three types of surgery dental surgeons perform on a regular basis for their patients. Dental surgery in Richmond, VA should always be followed by the proper after care at home and follow up visits to ensure everything is healing properly after the surgery. Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates Family Dentistry & Orthodontics provides quality dental care for all your oral health needs.