Oral Surgery

• Relieves pain from infected, fractured, or impacted teeth.
• Stops the spread of dental infection and protects overall health.
• Restores chewing function with stable tooth replacement options.
• Prepares the jaw for future treatment, including implants or orthodontics.
• Improves bite alignment and facial balance in select cases.
• Enhances oral hygiene access when crowding or impaction is reduced.

Many patients search for the benefits of oral surgery when evaluating whether to extract a tooth, remove wisdom teeth, or plan for implants. A consultation clarifies which choice best supports your oral health.

Consultation and Planning

The visit begins with an exam, digital X-rays, or 3D imaging to evaluate roots, nerves, and bone. Medical history, medications, and allergies are reviewed to plan safe care. Sedation options for oral surgery may include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or oral sedation, depending on your health and the complexity of the procedure.

Day of Procedure

Local anesthesia numbs the area so you remain comfortable. If using oral sedation or nitrous oxide, additional monitoring is provided. The procedure length varies by treatment, from 20–30 minutes for a simple extraction to longer for multiple extractions, wisdom teeth removal, or implant placement. Stitches may be placed to support healing.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Most patients return home the same day with written aftercare instructions. A follow-up visit may be scheduled to assess healing, remove non-dissolving stitches, or plan the next phase of care.

Before surgery, you may be asked to avoid food and drink for several hours if sedation is planned, wear comfortable clothing, and arrange a ride home when needed. After surgery, mild to moderate soreness and swelling are common. Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief as directed, apply cold packs in the first 24–48 hours, and keep your head elevated when resting.

Typical oral surgery recovery time varies by procedure. Most swelling peaks at 48–72 hours and improves after day three. Soft foods, such as yogurt, eggs, oatmeal, smoothies without straws, and tender pasta, are recommended for several days. Avoid smoking, vigorous rinsing, drinking through a straw, or strenuous activity until advised. Start gentle saltwater rinses after the first day unless told otherwise. Call the office if you notice persistent or heavy bleeding, fever, worsening swelling after day three, foul taste or odor, or numbness that does not improve. Follow all pre- and post-op instructions carefully for the best results.