Most people know the importance and role of an orthodontist and dentist, but an oral surgeon is a little different. Of course, surgery in St. Augustine FL can be frightening and worrisome, but is necessary in some cases. It is important to know what these surgeons do and what they treat, in case you ever require their services. Knowing about the procedures can make things seem less scary.
Diseased/Impacted Teeth
If you have an affected or diseased tooth, you will need to have them removed, usually with surgery. A dentist can remove some damaged teeth, but if you require anesthesia, you’ll need someone with more skills than a traditional dentist.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent alternative to regular dentures but do require surgery, as the metal posts much be surgically placed within the jawbone before the teeth can be placed over them. Your cosmetic or general dentist can usually handle the making and placing of the post covers, but surgery is necessary to have them placed.
Facial Trauma and Pain
Surgeons are excellent at repairing skin lacerations near the mouth, set jaws or bones with the face and can even reconnect severed nerves. Any facial injury that involves the jaw, cheeks, nasal bones, oral tissues, forehead or eye sockets can be treated by an oral surgeon in St. Augustine FL area.
Reconstructive/Cosmetic Surgery
Whether you want some cosmetic work done to make your face look better or need problems corrected, such as facial bone, soft tissue or jaw problems, surgery can help. These corrective options can restore the function of your face muscles and may require reconstruction from other parts of the body, including nerves, tissues, skin or bone.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic (jaw) surgery is sometimes necessary to restore or improve speaking, breathing and chewing. Typically, these surgeons work with your orthodontist to help realign the lower and upper jaws through the use of braces, retainers and surgery. When something like this is necessary, you will likely talk with your general dentist, an orthodontist and the surgery professional to determine what is necessary.
OSA
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a certain sleep disorder. There are many tests that are required before surgery, such as a sleep test (polysomnography). Your dentist can then help you choose the best treatment options, including surgery.