Oral Surgery Myths Busted: Facts You Need to Know

The thought of oral surgery can conjure up images of intense pain, lengthy recovery times, and sky-high costs. But are these fears based on reality, or are they just myths holding you back from getting the treatment you need? In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths surrounding oral surgery in Plantation, FL. Doing so, we’ll replace them with facts to empower you to make informed decisions about your oral health.

Signs You Need Oral Surgery 

Oral surgery, often referred to as oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating a variety of diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. While many dental issues can be addressed with non-invasive treatments, certain signs and symptoms may indicate the need for oral surgery. It’s important to recognize these signs and seek prompt evaluation by a qualified oral surgeon to determine the best course of treatment. Here are some common signs that may indicate the need for oral surgery:

Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often become impacted or trapped in the jawbone due to lack of space in the mouth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Oral surgery may be necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth and prevent further complications.

Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent or severe tooth pain may be a sign of an underlying dental issue that requires oral surgery. This could include severe tooth decay, an abscessed tooth, or damage to the tooth root that cannot be addressed with other treatments, such as root canal therapy.

Jaw Pain or Clicking: Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking noises when opening or closing the mouth may indicate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. In some cases, oral surgery may be necessary to correct TMJ disorders and alleviate symptoms.

Facial Trauma: Facial trauma resulting from accidents, sports injuries, or other incidents can cause fractures or other injuries to the facial bones, jaw, or teeth. Oral surgery may be required to repair damaged tissues and restore proper function and aesthetics.

Myth #1: Oral Surgery is Always Painful

This is the biggest fear associated with oral surgery. The good news is that thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, oral surgery doesn’t have to be a painful experience. Gone are the days of limited pain management options. 

Today, oral surgeons have a wide range of anesthesia choices to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia numbs the specific area being operated on, while sedation dentistry can help you relax and feel little to no discomfort. In some cases, general anesthesia might be used, putting you into a sleep state during the entire surgery. 

Additionally, oral surgeons prioritize pain management after the procedure. You’ll be prescribed medication to control any postoperative discomfort, ensuring a smooth and comfortable recovery.

Myth #2: Recovery from Oral Surgery Takes Weeks

While some complex oral surgeries might have a longer recovery time, most procedures nowadays are minimally invasive and designed for a quicker return to normalcy. In many cases, you can expect to be back to work and your daily routine within a few days, with proper care and following your surgeon’s instructions. The key to a smooth recovery lies in following your post-operative care plan meticulously. This may involve sticking to a soft food diet, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Myth #3: Oral Surgery is Only for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal is a common type of oral surgery, but it’s far from the only one. Oral surgeons perform a variety of procedures to address different dental and jaw concerns. Here are some examples:

• Dental implant placement: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in the jawbone to support crowns, bridges, or dentures.
• Bone grafting: This procedure involves transplanting bone tissue to create a strong foundation for dental implants or other restorative procedures.
• Jaw surgery: This surgery corrects jawbone irregularities that can cause problems with chewing, speaking, or facial appearance.
• Oral pathology procedures: Oral surgeons can diagnose and treat problems with the soft and hard tissues of the mouth, such as cysts, tumors, and facial injuries.

Myth #4: Oral Surgery is Too Expensive

The cost of oral surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia type, facility fees, and insurance coverage. However, it’s important to consider oral surgery in Plantation, FL, as an investment in your long-term oral health and overall well-being. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of oral surgery. Additionally, some oral surgeons offer flexible payment plans to make the procedure more affordable. When considering the cost, factor in the potential savings down the line by addressing the dental problem definitively and avoiding future complications.

Myth #5: You’re Not a Candidate for Oral Surgery Because of Age or Health Conditions

Age, by itself, shouldn’t necessarily disqualify you from oral surgery. Oral surgeons are highly trained professionals who can assess your health situation and determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Open communication with your dentist and oral surgeon is crucial. Be upfront about any medical conditions you have, and they will work with you to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan. In some cases, certain health conditions might require additional precautions or modifications to the surgical procedure.

Oral surgery plays a vital role in maintaining optimal oral health and improving your overall well-being. By debunking these common myths, we hope to empower you to make informed decisions about your dental care. Remember, oral surgeons are highly skilled professionals dedicated to providing patients with comfortable and successful surgical experiences. Don’t let fear or misinformation hold you back from getting the treatment you need. Please schedule a consultation with us at My Dentist For Life Of Plantation today, where we offer the best oral surgery in Plantation, FL. Taking care of your oral health is an investment in yourself. With modern advancements and the expertise of oral surgeons, there’s no reason to let myths stand in the way of achieving a healthy and confident smile.