Types of Dental Surgery Most People Need at Some Point
Posted on 6/1/2026 by Rai Oral Surgery and Dental Implants |
 Most people think of going to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups. But sometimes, your mouth needs a little more help than just a regular visit. That's where oral surgery comes in. It's important to remember that good oral care is about more than just brushing and flossing; it's about addressing problems that can impact your overall health. We're going to talk about some common types of dental surgery that many people will need at some point in their lives. These surgeries are often part of a bigger plan to restore your smile and keep your mouth healthy, which is known as restoration dentistry.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Let’s start with the big one: wisdom teeth. These are the last set of molars to come in, usually in your late teens or early twenties. The problem is, many people don't have enough room in their mouths for them. When wisdom teeth try to erupt but get stuck (impacted), they can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth only partially erupt, creating a flap of gum tissue that's difficult to keep clean. This can lead to pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue around the tooth. Impacted wisdom teeth can also push against other teeth, causing them to shift out of alignment.
The process of removing wisdom teeth usually involves numbing the area with local anesthetic, and sometimes sedation is used to help patients relax. The oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gums to access the tooth and may need to break it into smaller pieces for easier removal. After the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned, and the gums are stitched closed.
Dental Implants
Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew, speak clearly, and even smile confidently. Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile.
An implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, the bone fuses to the implant through a process called osseointegration, making it a stable and permanent base for a replacement tooth.
Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a connector post called an abutment is attached. Then, a custom-made crown, which looks and functions like a natural tooth, is attached to the abutment.
Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or even support a full set of dentures. They are a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth.
Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Sometimes, the upper and lower jaws don't line up correctly. This can cause problems with chewing, speaking, breathing, and even sleeping. Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can help correct these issues.
This type of surgery involves repositioning the jawbones to improve the bite and facial balance. It's often done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment (braces) to align the teeth properly.
The procedure is performed inside the mouth, so there are usually no visible scars. After surgery, patients may need to wear braces for a period of time to fine-tune their bite.
Tooth Extractions
While the goal is always to save a tooth whenever possible, sometimes extraction is the best option. Teeth may need to be extracted due to severe decay, infection, or trauma. Extractions are also sometimes necessary to prepare for orthodontic treatment or to remove teeth that are blocking the eruption of other teeth.
The process of extracting a tooth involves numbing the area with local anesthetic. The oral surgeon will then loosen the tooth and remove it from the socket. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. After the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned, and the gums may be stitched closed. |
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