Oral Surgery FAQs Orange County, Anaheim, Laguna Woods & Mission Viejo

Oral and maxillofacial surgeries treat conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. These include tooth extractions, corrective jaw surgery, facial trauma repair, and treatment for oral diseases or tumors.

Oral surgery is necessary for complex cases such as impacted wisdom teeth, jaw misalignment, severe facial trauma, or removal of oral tumors. Your dentist or oral surgeon will recommend surgery if other treatments are ineffective.

The procedures are performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Post-surgery discomfort can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon.

Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery. Minor procedures, like extractions, may heal within a week, while major surgeries, such as jaw realignment, may take several weeks or months for full recovery.

During your consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and discuss treatment options. X-rays or CT scans may be taken to assess the area requiring surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications with you before the procedure.

Depending on the procedure and your comfort level, local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia may be used. Your oral surgeon will determine the best option based on the complexity of the surgery.

Follow pre-surgery instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include fasting before surgery, arranging transportation, and making preparations for your post-surgery care at home.