4 Common Oral Surgery Procedures

Oral surgery refers to a wide range of dental procedures, from simple to complex. Some people assume that an oral surgeon performs all dental surgeries. However, this is only sometimes the case. General dentists frequently perform surgical procedures, and this blog takes a closer look at some common surgical procedures general dentists perform.

Dentists can perform simple oral surgery procedures

While dentists can perform many different types of simple surgical procedures, when a patient needs complex oral surgery, the dentist will refer them to another type of dental professional, such as an oral surgeon. However, the list below includes simple dental surgeries the typical general dentist performs.

Four commonly-performed oral surgery procedures

1. Impacted tooth removal

Dentists can perform simple tooth extractions, such as when someone has an impacted wisdom tooth. Removing impacted teeth is necessary because they can cause mouth infections, tooth decay, and gum disease. A dentist can perform this procedure, provided the removal process does not require extensive or complex oral surgery.

2. Dental implant placement

Dental implants are a popular tooth-replacement option for those missing at least one of their teeth. In this procedure, the dentist surgically implants a titanium implant into the patient's jaw bone, replacing the lost tooth's root. After the implant fuses with the jawbone, the dentist places the abutment and crown in separate surgeries. This process can involve multiple surgeries and months to complete, requiring a lengthy time commitment from the patient. Not all general dentists perform implant placement. However, most general dentists offer the crown placement portion of the process.

3. Root canal therapy

Root canal therapy is a procedure performed to save a tooth in jeopardy of being lost due to infection. Simple root canals require a dentist to remove a tooth's pulp to remove the infection. The pulp is the living part of the tooth located in the center of the tooth. Once the dentist removes the infection, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and filled. Some root canal-treated teeth will need to be reinforced with a dental crown.

4. Crown lengthening procedures

Dentists perform crown lengthening procedures for cosmetic and restorative reasons and to improve the overall health of someone's gum tissue. The procedure requires a dentist to make small incisions in the mouth's soft tissues to help separate the gums from the tooth, revealing more of the tooth. Patients often have this procedure to treat excessive gum tissue or a gummy smile. This procedure creates a more balanced look to the smile. While many people undergo this procedure for cosmetic reasons, a dentist may also perform this procedure to facilitate more effective dental hygiene or proper crown placement.

Are you in need of oral surgery?

If you need dental surgery, a general dentist may be able to help. These simple oral surgery procedures can improve the look and health of your mouth. The best way to find out is to make an appointment with our dental team for a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://www.riverfrontdentalassociates.com or call Riverfront Dental Associates at (423) 303-7869 for an appointment in our Chattanooga office.

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