What is oral surgery? 5 Types of Procedures Performed by an Oral Surgeon

Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures performed by oral surgeons. These third molars often become impacted when there isn’t enough space in the jaw, causing pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. An oral surgeon removes these teeth using specialized techniques that may include creating incisions in the gum tissue and removing bone to access fully impacted teeth. This procedure treats or prevents problems like pericoronitis (inflammation around partially erupted wisdom teeth), decay in difficult-to-clean areas, and cysts that can form around impacted teeth.

Dental implant surgery involves placing titanium posts into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for replacement teeth. An oral surgeon evaluates bone density, performs any necessary grafting procedures, and precisely positions the implants to ensure optimal function and aesthetics. This procedure treats tooth loss caused by decay, gum disease, injury, or congenital conditions, providing a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.

Also known as orthognathic surgery, this procedure corrects irregularities in jaw positioning and alignment. The oral surgeon repositions the jaw to improve functionality and facial appearance, often working in conjunction with orthodontists who align the teeth. Precise cuts are made in the jawbone, which is then repositioned and secured with plates and screws. This surgery treats conditions like severe malocclusion (improper bite), facial asymmetry, TMJ disorders, and certain sleep apnea cases where jaw position contributes to airway obstruction.

Trauma repair involves reconstructing damaged facial bones and soft tissues following accidents or injuries. Oral surgeons use specialized techniques to reposition fractured bones, repair damaged nerves, and restore facial aesthetics. This may include rigid fixation with plates and screws, wire suspension, or bone grafting to rebuild lost structure. These procedures treat facial fractures, lacerations, damaged teeth, and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth and face, helping restore both function and appearance.

Soft tissue procedures address issues affecting the gums, cheeks, tongue, and floor of the mouth. These include frenectomies (releasing restrictive tissue attachments), biopsies of suspicious lesions, and excision of benign growths. Oral surgeons use precise techniques to minimize damage to surrounding tissues while effectively treating the condition. These procedures address problems like tongue-tie, hyperplastic tissue, mucoceles, and potentially cancerous lesions, helping maintain overall oral health and function.

Non-surgical periodontal therapy includes deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing that remove bacteria, calculus, and toxins from below the gumline. This treatment can effectively manage many cases of gum disease without the need for surgical intervention. Dentists or dental hygienists use specialized instruments to clean tooth surfaces and root structures, sometimes combining this with localized antibiotic delivery or antimicrobial rinses. This approach is particularly appropriate for early to moderate periodontal disease, helping to preserve natural teeth and avoid more invasive surgical procedures.

Orthodontic treatment uses braces, clear aligners, or other appliances to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. In many cases, this can correct bite issues and jaw misalignments that might otherwise require surgical intervention. Modern orthodontic approaches can address complex problems through controlled force application over time, often eliminating the need for corrective jaw surgery. This conservative option is especially beneficial for growing children and adolescents with developing jaw structures, though adults can also benefit from orthodontic solutions for many alignment issues.

Endodontic therapy, commonly known as root canal treatment, can save severely infected or damaged teeth that might otherwise require extraction and subsequent implant placement. During this procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected and then filled and sealed with a biocompatible material. A crown is typically placed afterward to restore full function. This treatment preserves the natural tooth structure while eliminating infection and pain, making it an excellent alternative to extraction when the tooth root and surrounding bone remain structurally sound.

Occlusal appliances like night guards, splints, or bite plates can effectively manage many TMJ disorders and related symptoms without surgery. These custom-fitted devices help reposition the jaw, protect teeth from grinding damage, and relax overactive muscles. By creating proper alignment and reducing pressure on the temporomandibular joint, these appliances can provide significant relief from pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement. This conservative approach should typically be tried before considering surgical interventions for TMJ disorders, as many patients experience substantial improvement with consistent appliance use.