Facing oral health issues can be uncomfortable and overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure whether surgery is required. There are several warning signs that indicate it might be time to consider an oral surgical procedure. The faster you recognize these symptoms, the sooner you can take action to address the underlying issue. Oral surgery is often necessary to treat conditions like severe tooth decay, impacted teeth, or jaw problems. Identifying these signs early can prevent complications and lead to better outcomes for your long-term oral health.
At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we provide comprehensive care to patients in need of oral surgery, using the latest technology and techniques. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or noticing more subtle signs, our team is here to help guide you through the process. If you think you might need oral surgery, our team is dedicated to providing you with the information and care necessary for a smooth and comfortable experience. We encourage you to contact our office for a consultation to discuss your symptoms.
Persistent Tooth Pain or Infection
One of the clearest indicators that oral surgery may be needed is persistent tooth pain. While mild discomfort can sometimes be managed with regular dental care, ongoing or severe pain often points to a more serious problem that requires surgical intervention. Tooth infections, especially those that recur, can spread to other parts of your body if left untreated. This kind of infection often stems from deep cavities, abscesses, or damage to the tooth’s root, which may require a root canal or tooth extraction.
If a tooth infection is severe enough, you may also experience swelling in the face or jaw, fever, and difficulty eating or speaking. These are strong indicators that surgery may be the best course of action to remove the infected tissue or tooth. Additionally, if you’re experiencing drainage from a tooth infection, it means the infection has progressed to a critical stage, and ignoring it can result in the need for more extensive surgery later.
For those who have undergone root canal treatments that have failed, re-treatment might not always be the best solution. In such cases, oral surgery, such as an apicoectomy (removing the tip of the tooth’s root), may be required to save the tooth and prevent further complications.
Impacted or Misaligned Teeth
Another common sign that you might need oral surgery is impacted or misaligned teeth, particularly when it comes to wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, which are the last molars to emerge, often don’t have enough room to grow properly. This can cause them to become impacted, leading to pain, swelling, and infection. Even if your impacted wisdom teeth are not causing immediate discomfort, leaving them untreated can lead to more serious issues down the road, including damage to nearby teeth or cyst formation.
In addition to wisdom teeth, other teeth can also become impacted or severely misaligned, particularly in cases where there is overcrowding in the mouth. Impacted teeth can remain stuck below the gum line, leading to pain and swelling. Misaligned teeth may interfere with chewing, cause discomfort, or create difficulties in maintaining proper oral hygiene, increasing the risk of decay.
When misaligned teeth cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatments like braces, oral surgery may be the best solution to remove the problematic teeth or adjust the jaw. Addressing these issues surgically can improve both the function and appearance of your teeth.
Jaw Pain and Dysfunction
Chronic jaw pain or difficulty opening and closing your mouth can signal a problem with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ disorders can be caused by injury, arthritis, or misalignment of the jaw, and when left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain, headaches, and difficulty eating. In severe cases, TMJ issues might require surgical intervention to realign the jaw or correct structural abnormalities.
Another potential cause of jaw pain that may require surgery is malocclusion, or an improper bite. If your upper and lower jaws do not align correctly, it can cause pain, uneven tooth wear, and difficulty chewing. In some instances, orthodontics alone may not be enough to fix this issue, and surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaw for proper alignment.
Jaw dysfunction can also stem from bone loss due to periodontal disease or injury. When the jawbone deteriorates, it may require bone grafting or reconstructive surgery to restore the jaw’s function and support any dental implants that might be necessary.
Is Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group Right for You?
When you’re experiencing persistent dental issues or chronic pain, it’s important to have a team that prioritizes your comfort and long-term health. At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we offer a patient-first approach, utilizing the latest dental technology and surgical techniques to ensure you receive the highest standard of care. From wisdom teeth extractions to more complex jaw surgeries, our goal is to make your experience as seamless and painless as possible.
Dr. Nancy Herbst and our dedicated team have been providing outstanding oral surgery services to the community for over 25 years. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and we take pride in offering personalized care, guiding you every step of the way from diagnosis to recovery. To schedule your consultation, call us at (908) 663-5309 or fill out our contact form.
