Many people feel some fear and trepidation when they hear the term “surgery,” but it doesn’t have to be that way! Dental surgeries can be downright smile-saving in certain situation; keep reading to learn more from our O’Fallon dentists about when surgical intervention becomes necessary…
Dental Damage
Many patients require oral surgery to remove teeth or oral tissues that have been damage due to rampant infection. Cavities that begin in the teeth can quickly spread to adjacent teeth and even jawbone tissue. Degraded tissues need to be cleared away before restorative treatment can begin. If you notice any signs of infection in your smile, please don’t hesitate to seek prompt treatment in order to minimize your risk of future complications.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Many of us develop wisdom teeth that don’t erupt properly on the gum line. These teeth are stuck in the jawbone, they are called “impacted wisdom teeth.” The good news is that even teeth that are stuck in the patient’s jawbone can be removed surgically.
Oral Cancers
Oral surgery also becomes necessary when a patient is diagnosed with a type of oral cancer. Depending on where the tumor is located, and how far it has spread throughout the smile, surgery may affect the tongue, hard palate, sinuses, jawbone, and soft tissues.
If you are dealing with a serious oral health issue, surgery may be able to help you get back on track with a healthy, attractive smile. As always, our O’Fallon dentists are here to walk you through all of your treatment options and to answer any questions that you may have!