Oral Maxillofacial Surgery In Houston, TX

When treating complex dental and facial conditions, oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, is considered when patients need advanced specialized dental procedures. This branch of dentistry focuses on diagnosing and surgically treating diseases, injuries, and defects in the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. While many procedures can be handled by a skilled dentist in Houston, TX, certain cases may require a specialist to ensure the best possible care. With the right expertise, patients can receive the necessary treatment to restore function and aesthetics.

What Is Oral Maxillofacial Surgery?

Oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, involves surgical procedures that address face, mouth, and jaw conditions. These surgeries can range from relatively simple tooth extractions to more complicated treatments such as corrective jaw surgery, facial trauma repair, and even treatment of oral cancers. Oral maxillofacial surgeons are dental specialists who undergo additional years of training beyond dental school, making them experts in dental care and facial surgery.

This type of surgery is typically recommended when teeth, mouth, or jaw issues are too severe for conventional dental treatments. These issues could include impacted wisdom teeth, jaw misalignment, facial injuries, or tumors that require surgical intervention. If you are suffering from any of the mentioned conditions, contact us at AK Dentistry for the best oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX. 

Common Procedures in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral maxillofacial surgeons perform various surgical procedures depending on the patient's needs. Some of the most common procedures include:

Wisdom Teeth Extraction

One of the most well-known reasons for visiting an oral surgeon is to remove impacted wisdom teeth. These are the last molars to emerge, typically during late adolescence or early adulthood. Sometimes, wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to erupt properly, becoming impacted or stuck in the jawbone. This can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. In such cases, a dentist in Houston, TX, may refer you to an oral maxillofacial surgeon for extraction of the wisdom tooth.

Dental Implants

If you’re missing one or more teeth, oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, may involve the placement of dental implants. This is a long-term solution for missing teeth that involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone. Once bone has healed and fused to the post, the implant can function as a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or dentures, allowing for restored function and appearance.

Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

Some patients may suffer from jaw misalignment, which can cause difficulties speaking, eating, or breathing. Corrective jaw surgery is a common type of maxillofacial surgery that aims to realign the jaws to improve both function and facial appearance. This surgery can correct issues such as a receding chin, overbite, underbite, and facial asymmetry. After healing, patients often experience improved oral health and quality of life.

Treatment of Facial Trauma

Accidents or injuries that affect the face, mouth, and jaw require immediate attention from an oral maxillofacial surgeon. Facial trauma can include broken facial bones, knocked-out teeth, and lacerations of soft tissues. Prompt surgical intervention can repair the damage, restore functionality, and minimize long-term effects. The surgeon may need to place plates, screws, or wires to stabilize fractures and facilitate healing.

Oral Pathology and Tumor Removal

Oral cancer and other abnormalities in the mouth and face may require surgical removal. Oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, includes diagnosing and treating these potentially serious conditions. Early detection of abnormal growths is essential, and surgical treatment may involve removing tumors or cysts from the jaw, gums, or soft tissues of the face and mouth. 

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery

TMJ disorders affect the joints that connect the jaw to the skull, leading to pain, limited movement, and discomfort while chewing. In severe cases where nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate symptoms, surgery may be necessary. TMJ surgery can help relieve pain and improve jaw function, allowing patients to speak and eat without discomfort. 

The Process of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, typically begins with a thorough consultation with your oral surgeon. During this initial appointment, the surgeon will take X-rays, review your medical history, and discuss your symptoms to determine the best course of treatment.

Once a surgical plan is created, patients undergo the procedure in a hospital or dental clinic, often under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery. After the surgery, patients are given instructions for recovery, which may include dietary restrictions, pain management, and activity limitations.

Recovery After Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

Recovery after oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, varies depending on the type of procedure performed. For less invasive surgeries like tooth extractions, recovery might only take a few days, while more complex surgeries like corrective jaw surgery may require several weeks for full healing. 

During recovery, patients are encouraged to rest, eat soft foods, and avoid physical activities that could strain the surgical site. Ice packs and prescribed medications can help manage swelling and discomfort. It’s important to follow all postoperative instructions from your Houston, TX, dentist to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

The Importance of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral maxillofacial surgery is crucial in addressing functional and aesthetic concerns related to the face, mouth, and jaw. Correcting underlying issues, such as misaligned jaws or impacted teeth, can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. Patients often experience relief from pain, improved oral function, and enhanced self-esteem following surgery.

Therefore, the expertise of a trained oral surgeon is essential in diagnosing and treating conditions that may go unnoticed by general dentists. Complex cases such as facial trauma, oral tumors, or severe jaw misalignment require the advanced skills of an oral maxillofacial surgeon to ensure optimal outcomes.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

If you are considering oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, it’s important to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure. Your dentist in Houston, TX, can refer you to a trusted oral maxillofacial surgeon specializing in your condition. It’s also beneficial to seek out a surgeon with a proven track record of success and positive patient outcomes.

Look for an oral maxillofacial surgeon who takes the time to explain the procedure, answer your questions, and make you feel comfortable about your treatment plan. A well-informed patient is more likely to have a positive surgical experience and successful recovery. 

Conclusion

Oral maxillofacial surgery in Houston, TX, provides a wide range of advanced treatments for patients with complex dental and facial conditions. From wisdom teeth extractions to corrective jaw surgery, these procedures are essential for improving oral health, restoring facial aesthetics, and enhancing overall quality of life. If you need oral surgery, don’t hesitate to consult with our skilled dentist in Houston, TX, who can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best possible care.

With the right treatment plan, you can overcome dental challenges and regain confidence in your smile. So schedule an appointment with us at AK Dentistry, located at 10370 Richmond Ave. Ste 310, Houston, TX 77042. For bookings and consultations, you can give us a call at (832) 251-1234. Please visit our official website to learn more about the various services we provide.