Taking care of your oral health isn’t just about brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings. Sometimes, dental issues go beyond what a general dentist can address. That’s where oral surgeons step in—these specialists handle more complex procedures to ensure your mouth stays healthy and pain-free.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your situation calls for an oral surgeon, this guide is here to help. Here are the top signs that it might be time to book an appointment with one.
1. Persistent Jaw Pain or Stiffness
Do you wake up with jaw pain that doesn’t seem to go away? Perhaps your jaw clicks or locks when you open your mouth wide. These could be signs of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which often requires the expertise of an oral surgeon. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic discomfort, headaches, or difficulty chewing.
An oral surgeon can diagnose the problem and suggest treatments, ranging from therapy to surgical intervention, to improve your jaw’s functionality and relieve the pain.
2. Impacted or Problematic Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are notorious troublemakers. For some people, these late-arriving molars grow in without any problems. For others, they become impacted, meaning they don’t have enough space to erupt properly. This can lead to pain, swelling, infections, and even damage to neighboring teeth.
If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or show up on your dental X-rays as impacted, it’s a clear sign you need an oral surgeon to safely remove them.
3. Missing Teeth and Considering Dental Implants
Missing teeth can be more than just a cosmetic issue—they can affect your ability to chew, speak, and maintain proper oral health. Dental implants are a durable and natural-looking solution, but they require precision and expertise to place.
Oral surgeons are highly skilled in implant surgery, ensuring the titanium posts are anchored securely in your jawbone. They’ll also assess whether you need additional procedures like bone grafting to support the implant.
4. Chronic Oral Pain or Infections
Toothaches that won’t quit or recurring infections in your gums and teeth can be signs of deeper issues. For example, a cyst or abscess might be forming near the root of your tooth, requiring surgical removal.
Oral surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions, often removing infected tissue or performing root-end surgeries to save the affected tooth. Delaying treatment could lead to more severe complications, so don’t wait too long to address persistent pain.
5. Facial or Oral Trauma
Accidents happen, and when they involve your face or mouth, the results can be both painful and distressing. Whether you’ve chipped a tooth, fractured your jaw, or suffered soft tissue damage, an oral surgeon can help restore both function and appearance.
These specialists are trained to handle a variety of trauma cases, ensuring your injuries heal properly and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
6. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking
If you’ve noticed changes in the way you chew or speak, it could indicate structural issues in your mouth. Misaligned jaws, overbites, or underbites can lead to discomfort and difficulty with everyday activities.
Oral surgeons can perform corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) to realign your jaw and improve your overall quality of life. This type of procedure isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about restoring proper function to your mouth.
7. Suspicious Lumps or Sores
Lumps, bumps, or sores in your mouth that don’t heal within two weeks should never be ignored. These could be signs of oral cancer or other serious conditions. An oral surgeon can perform a biopsy to determine the cause and recommend a treatment plan if needed.
Early detection is key when it comes to oral cancer, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you notice any unusual changes.
8. Sleep Apnea or Breathing Problems
Chronic snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep might point to obstructive sleep apnea. In severe cases, oral surgery may be necessary to correct structural issues contributing to the problem.
Procedures like repositioning your jaw or removing excess tissue can open your airway, helping you sleep better and reducing health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.
What to Do Next?
Recognizing the signs that you need an oral surgeon is the first step toward resolving your dental issues. However, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent complications. Start by consulting with your general dentist, who can evaluate your condition and refer you to a trusted oral surgeon if necessary.
If you’re in need of specialized care, Crown Point Family Dentistry provides a comprehensive range of dental services. Whether you’re dealing with problematic wisdom teeth, considering implants, or facing other oral health concerns, they’ll guide you through the process to ensure you get the best possible care.
For residents looking for a Charlotte dentist who values your oral health, Crown Point Family Dentistry is here to help. Don’t let oral issues hold you back—schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
