ORAL SURGERY
What is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery refers to any surgical procedure done within and around the oral cavity.
Therefore, these procedures can vary from straightforward tooth extractions to intricate orthognathic surgeries, where the jaws are surgically repositioned to align with the head and neck. Minimally invasive jaw surgery and low impact jaw surgery are specialised techniques often used in orthofacial surgery, ensuring precise corrections with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues. Oral maxillofacial surgeons in Singapore specialise in treating conditions that affect the mouth, jaw, and facial structures, including performing jaw surgery first before orthodontic treatment to achieve optimal facial and dental alignment.
Common Procedures:
The more routine procedures of oral and maxillofacial surgery are as follows:
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Biopsies of soft and hard tissue lesions
- Surgical implant placement
- Bone grafts
- Excision and biopsy of soft tissue lesions
- Orthofacial surgery to correct jaw misalignment and facial deformities
When Should I Consider Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
Due to the invasive nature of any surgery, we only advocate oral and maxillofacial surgery after a thorough consultation with our dental surgeons or an oral maxillofacial surgeon. Most minor surgeries, such as tooth extractions and biopsies, can be performed onsite under local anaesthesia. For those seeking additional comfort, we collaborate with visiting anaesthetists who can provide intravenous sedation. In cases that are more complex and may require general anaesthesia, surgeries are performed at specialised day surgery centres
If you need the services of an oral surgeon in Singapore, Dental Essence provides a range of care options designed to meet your individual needs and ensure your comfort. Our team of dentists will collaborate with our oral maxillofacial surgeon in Singapore for comprehensive surgical treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between oral surgery and oral and maxillofacial surgery?
Oral surgery typically refers to procedures performed within the mouth, such as tooth extractions and dental implants. Oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses a broader range of procedures that involve not just the mouth but also the jaw, face, and neck, addressing complex conditions and reconstructive needs.
2. What types of conditions do oral maxillofacial surgeons treat?
Oral maxillofacial surgeons treat a variety of conditions, including impacted teeth, jaw misalignment, facial trauma, oral cancers, congenital facial deformities, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
3. What can I expect during my initial consultation?
During your initial consultation, our oral maxillofacial surgeon will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a review of your medical history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies like X-rays. We will discuss your concerns, explain potential treatment options, and outline the risks and benefits of each procedure.
4. Is oral and maxillofacial surgery painful?
While discomfort can vary depending on the procedure, we take great care to manage pain effectively. Local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia will be used as needed to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. Post-operative pain can be managed with prescribed medications.
5. How long is the recovery period after surgery?
Recovery time varies based on the complexity of the procedure. Minor surgeries may allow patients to return to normal activities within a few days, while more extensive procedures could take several weeks. Our team will provide specific post-operative care instructions to help you recover comfortably.
6. Are there any risks associated with oral and maxillofacial surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or complications from anaesthesia. However, our team prioritises safety and will thoroughly discuss these risks during your consultation, along with how we mitigate them.
7. Can I eat before my surgery?
Eating and drinking before surgery depends on the type of anaesthesia you will receive. For local anaesthesia, you may be allowed to eat beforehand. However, if you are undergoing sedation or general anaesthesia, you will need to fast for several hours prior. Detailed instructions will be provided before your procedure.
8. Will I need a follow-up appointment?
Yes, follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to monitor your recovery, remove stitches if necessary, and address any concerns. These appointments are essential for ensuring a successful outcome.