If non-surgical methods cannot treat a patient's oral health issue, the patient may be a candidate for oral surgery. These procedures can include anything from a simple tooth extraction to a more complex procedure such as jaw surgery. However, besides need, patients must also fit other important criteria. Here are some key points patients should know about being a good candidate for oral surgery.
When oral surgery is needed
Sometimes, oral surgery is the best solution for a dental health issue. Practitioners may recommend oral surgery when non-surgical options have been exhausted or surgery is likely to produce superior outcomes. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis and in the best interest of the patient.
Oral surgery can range from simple to complex, and some patients may need multiple procedures. Common reasons for oral surgery include:
- Extraction of impacted wisdom teeth
- Repairing facial trauma
- Correcting jaw alignment
- Treating obstructive sleep apnea
- Placing dental implants
- Improving bone density with a bone graft
- Treatment of oral cancer
- Infected or broken teeth
In addition, oral surgeons will perform procedures to treat obstructive sleep apnea, prepare the mouth for prosthetics, and repair congenital conditions such as cleft palate.
Who is a good candidate
However, certain circumstances can interfere with a patient's fitness for surgery. Things such as jaw bone density and patient health can play a role. Here is a look at other important criteria practitioners consider when recommending oral surgery.
Good oral health
The health of a person's mouth is important to the effectiveness of surgery. Patients with healthy teeth and gums tend to have better outcomes and heal more quickly. Therefore, dental hygiene before and after is essential. Certain surgeries have specific dental health requirements. For example, patients need adequate bone density with dental implants for the procedure to succeed.
Good overall health
In addition to good oral health, patients must be physically healthy. The patient's health is important for successful healing and prevention of infection. Patients with certain health conditions, undergoing certain treatments, or those who are immunocompromised may not be good candidates for oral surgery. Bad health habits such as heavy drinking, smoking, and using tobacco products can also disqualify someone from surgery.
Patient compliance
Patient compliance refers to their willingness and ability to follow directions and care for themselves before and after the procedure. The success and safety of most procedures hinge on it. Therefore, patients should understand their preparatory and aftercare instructions, follow them closely, and take medications as prescribed. Following the surgeon's directions will aid healing, help the patient avoid complications, and support the procedure's success.
How can patients improve their candidacy?
Patients can take steps to improve their fitness for oral surgery. Quitting smoking and other bad oral health habits and tending to gum disease issues can help. For those who want to improve their candidacy for dental implant surgery, bone grafting may be an option. Those with certain medical issues can discuss them with their surgeon. The surgeon can often offer advice on how to make oral surgery safer for those patients.
Am I a candidate for oral surgery?
The team at Premier Oral Surgery helps patients of all health circumstances have successful surgical procedures. Our primary goal is to keep each patient safe and comfortable while they get the care they need. If you have more questions about oral surgery or how to prepare, call us today.
Request an appointment or call Premier Oral Surgery at 203-945-0049 for an appointment in our Norwalk office.
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