Some dental problems may require oral surgery. Here’s a look at some common problems and surgical solutions.

Wisdom Teeth
Also known as “third molars,” wisdom teeth are the last to develop. Sometimes the jaw is large enough to allow room for them, but this isn’t often the case. Often times, these teeth fail to emerge through the gum line and become “impacted” between the jawbone and the gum tissue. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to:

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  • Swelling, pain or infection of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth
  • Damage to nearby teeth, gums and bone
  • The formation of cysts or tumors that can destroy sections of the jaw

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Dentists recommend that people who have impacted wisdom teeth have them surgically removed.

Implants
Dental implants are an option for tooth loss, infection or as an alternative to dentures. Implants are surgically anchored in the jawbone to stabilize the attached artificial teeth. Suitable candidates for dental implants must:

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  • Have adequate bone level and density
  • Not be prone to infection
  • Be willing to maintain good oral hygiene practices

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Other common dental surgeries are performed for jaw-related problems and injury repair for broken facial bones. Oral surgeons can also remove a small sample of abnormal growth or tissue and send it to a laboratory for testing. Go here for more detailed descriptions of common oral surgeries.