Learn the ins and outs of oral surgery: The treatments, costs, & recovery processes

Oral surgery is a specialised branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face.

While the idea of surgery can be daunting, understanding what oral surgery involves, why it may be necessary, the different types available, associated costs, and the recovery process can help demystify the procedure and prepare you for what to expect.

What is Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery refers to procedures performed in or around your mouth and jaw. It is typically carried out by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon—a dentist with specialised surgical training.

Oral surgeons are qualified to treat various conditions, including impacted teeth, tooth loss, jaw-related issues, and even cosmetic concerns. These professionals have extensive training beyond dental school and often complete an additional four to six years of residency in a hospital-based surgical environment.

Why is Oral Surgery Needed?

Oral surgery is needed for various reasons, ranging from addressing dental health issues to enhancing the function and appearance of the oral and maxillofacial region. Here are some common scenarios where oral surgery is required:

Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often do not have enough room to emerge properly and can become impacted. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.
Tooth Loss: Dental implants are a common oral surgery procedure used to replace missing teeth. Implants provide a stable foundation for artificial teeth and help preserve jawbone structure.
Jaw Problems: Conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, misaligned jaws, or congenital jaw defects may require surgical intervention to improve function and relieve pain.
Oral Cancer: Oral surgeons perform biopsies and remove malignant growths in the mouth, ensuring the affected tissue is thoroughly excised.
Facial Trauma: Accidents or injuries that result in broken facial bones, teeth, or jaw require surgical repair to restore proper function and appearance.
Cosmetic Reasons: Procedures such as corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) can enhance facial aesthetics and improve bite function.

The Types of Oral Surgery

Oral surgery encompasses a variety of procedures, each tailored to address specific conditions. Here are some of the most common types:

Tooth Extractions: Removing teeth that are damaged, decayed, or impacted, including wisdom teeth.
Dental Implants: Metal posts are placed into the jawbone to act as roots for artificial teeth.
Bone Grafts: Adding bone to jaw areas where bone loss has occurred, often in preparation for implants.
Orthognathic Surgery: Correcting misaligned jaws to improve bite and facial symmetry.
TMJ Surgery: Treating temporomandibular joint disorders to relieve pain and improve function.
Biopsies and Lesion Removal: Removing and analysing suspicious oral tissue to diagnose or treat oral cancer.
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair: Correcting congenital deformities to restore function and appearance.

The Costs of Oral Surgery

The cost of oral surgery varies widely depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's expertise, and geographic location. Here is a rough estimate of what you might expect for different types of oral surgeries within Australia:

Tooth Extractions:

Simple extractions: $100 to $400 per tooth.
Surgical extractions: $300 to $800 per tooth.
Wisdom teeth extractions: $300 to $1,000 per tooth.

Dental Implants:

$4,000 to $7,000 per implant, including the crown.

Bone Grafts:

$300 to $1,800, depending on the size and complexity of the graft.

Orthognathic Surgery:

$25,000 to $50,000 or more, often covered partially by insurance.

TMJ Surgery:

$7,000 to $70,000, depending on the extent of the procedure and whether one or both joints are involved.

Biopsies and Lesion Removal:

$700 to $3,000, depending on the complexity and pathology involved.

It's important to check with your private health insurance provider to understand what portion of these costs might be covered under your plan.

Some procedures may be considered medically necessary and thus eligible for insurance reimbursement, while others, especially cosmetic procedures, may not be covered.

The Recovery Process

The recovery process after oral surgery varies depending on the procedure, but there are general guidelines that can help ensure a smooth healing period:

Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site, including information on medications, diet, and activity restrictions.
Manage Pain and Swelling: In the initial days following surgery, over-the-counter pain relievers, prescribed medications, and cold compresses can help manage discomfort and reduce swelling.
Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keeping the surgical site clean is crucial to prevent infection. Your surgeon may recommend a gentle rinse with salt water and avoiding vigorous brushing near the surgical area.
Dietary Adjustments: Soft foods and liquids are recommended initially. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as healing progresses.
Avoid Strenuous Activities: Rest is essential to allow your body to heal. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and smoking, as these can impede recovery.
Monitor for Complications: Be alert for signs of infection, excessive bleeding, or unusual pain, and contact your surgeon if any issues arise.

Recovery times can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery and individual healing rates.

Speak to the Specialists

Understanding oral surgery's ins and outs can help you approach the procedure confidently. Whether addressing dental health issues, improving function, or enhancing aesthetics, oral surgery is crucial in maintaining and improving oral and overall health.

If you need oral surgery, consult a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss your options and ensure the best possible outcome.

Emergency Dentist Sydney is an expert in the dental field. Whether you need in-hours or around-the-clock support, we are here for you. Book a consultation today.