Are you dealing with jaw pain, recurring tooth infections, or impacted wisdom teeth? You might be wondering if a simple dental visit will fix the issue or if it’s time to see an oral surgeon in Maricopa.
Oral surgery can sound intimidating, but in many cases, it’s a necessary step toward long-term dental health. In this blog, we’ll help you understand when oral surgery is needed, what signs to watch for, and how to make the right decision with your Maricopa dentist.
Let’s dive in.
What Is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed in or around your mouth and jaw. It’s typically done by a trained oral surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating more complex dental issues that go beyond general cleanings or fillings.
Common procedures performed by an oral surgeon include:
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Dental implant placement
- Jaw correction (orthognathic surgery)
- Tooth extractions
- Biopsies or treatment for oral cysts
- Bone grafting
While your Maricopa dentist can handle routine dental care, an oral surgeon in Maricopa steps in when the problem requires more advanced surgical skill and specialized equipment.
Why Oral Surgery Matters and Who Needs It
Oral surgery isn’t just about fixing dental problems, it’s about preventing future complications that could affect your overall health.
You may need oral surgery if:
- You have impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or infection
- A tooth is too damaged to save and needs surgical extraction
- You’ve lost a tooth and need a dental implant
- You’re dealing with TMJ (jaw joint) disorders
- You have severe gum disease causing bone or tissue loss
- You notice lumps, growths, or persistent oral sores
Ignoring these signs could lead to bigger issues like bone loss, tooth misalignment, or spreading infection. That’s why consulting an oral surgeon in Maricopa early can make all the difference.
Key Signs You May Need Oral Surgery
1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If your wisdom teeth are trapped beneath the gums or pushing against neighboring teeth, this can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. An oral surgeon can remove them safely before they cause long-term damage.
2. Chronic Tooth Pain or Infection
If you’ve had repeated infections in the same tooth—even after root canals, surgical removal may be the only option. This is often the case when the roots are curved or surrounded by bone.
3. Jaw Pain or TMJ Problems
Ongoing pain in the jaw joint (TMJ), difficulty opening your mouth, or clicking sounds could mean a structural issue. An oral surgeon can evaluate whether corrective surgery is needed.
4. Bone Loss in the Jaw
If you’re considering dental implants but have experienced bone loss, bone grafting surgery may be necessary to rebuild the structure.
5. Facial Swelling, Lumps, or Abnormal Tissue
Swelling, cysts, or lumps in your mouth or jaw should never be ignored. An oral surgeon may perform a biopsy to determine if the growth is benign or needs further treatment.
Common Myths About Oral Surgery (and the Truth)
- Myth: Oral surgery is extremely painful.
Truth: With modern anesthesia and sedation, most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. - Myth: Only people with wisdom teeth need oral surgery.
Truth: Oral surgery covers a wide range of treatments—from implants to jaw correction—and applies to many patients. - Myth: You only need an oral surgeon if your dentist can’t handle it.
Truth: Dentists refer to oral surgeons for specialized cases that require surgical training and expertise—not because they can’t treat you, but because they want you to get the best care possible.
Tips to Prepare for Your Oral Surgery
- Follow Pre-Op Instructions: Your oral surgeon will give you detailed steps to follow before your procedure, such as fasting or adjusting medications.
- Stock Up on Soft Foods: Yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies will be your best friends during recovery.
- Keep the Area Clean: After surgery, rinse with warm salt water and brush gently around the area.
- Arrange a Ride: Sedation or anesthesia can impair your ability to drive, so have someone accompany you.
- Plan for Rest: Take it easy for at least 24–48 hours to allow your body to begin healing.
FAQ: Oral Surgery in Maricopa
1. Is oral surgery covered by insurance?
It depends on the procedure and your dental plan. Many policies cover medically necessary surgeries, such as extractions or biopsies. Check with your provider.
2. How long is recovery after oral surgery?
Most patients recover in 1–2 weeks, but this can vary depending on the procedure. Your oral surgeon will give you specific aftercare instructions.
3. Can my Maricopa dentist perform oral surgery?
While general dentists can perform some extractions, complex procedures like impacted wisdom tooth removal or jaw surgery are best handled by a certified oral surgeon in Maricopa.
4. Will I be awake during oral surgery?
That depends. For simple procedures, local anesthesia may be enough. For more complex surgeries, IV sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
5. What should I eat after oral surgery?
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup for a few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the area.
Conclusion:
Oral surgery may sound intimidating, but it plays a vital role in protecting your dental and overall health. Whether you’re dealing with impacted teeth, chronic pain, or unexplained swelling, don’t ignore the warning signs.
A trusted oral surgeon in Maricopa can evaluate your condition, walk you through your options, and guide you toward safe and effective treatment. And if you’re experiencing discomfort now, your Maricopa dentist can provide an initial assessment and refer you to the right specialist.
Ready to take the next step? Contact a certified oral surgeon in Maricopa today to schedule your consultation and get the care your smile deserves.