Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. John Won, a renowned expert in this area, offers valuable insights into the most common procedures within this discipline. These surgeries often address functional, aesthetic, and reconstructive concerns, improving patients’ quality of life. Below is a guide to some of the most common oral and maxillofacial surgeries.
1. Tooth Extraction
One of the most common procedures performed in oral surgery is tooth extraction, often necessary when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or impacted. Wisdom teeth extraction is perhaps the most well-known example. When these third molars don’t have enough space to emerge properly, they can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Removing them helps prevent future oral health problems, including crowding and infections.
For many patients, tooth extraction is a relatively straightforward procedure performed under local anesthesia. In some cases, general anesthesia or sedation may be used, especially if multiple teeth are being removed at once.
2. Dental Implants
Dental implants are an increasingly popular option for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants provide a more permanent and stable solution. A titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone, acting as a replacement root for a missing tooth. Over time, the bone fuses with the implant, ensuring its stability.
Dr. John Won often performs these surgeries for patients who have lost teeth due to decay, trauma, or other health conditions. Implants offer a natural look and feel, restoring function and appearance to the mouth. This procedure requires good bone health to ensure the implant integrates properly.
3. Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)
Orthognathic surgery is designed to correct jaw misalignments that affect both function and appearance. Patients suffering from conditions such as overbite, underbite, or jaw asymmetry often benefit from this surgery. These misalignments can cause difficulty with chewing, speaking, or even breathing.
In orthognathic surgery, the surgeon makes precise cuts in the jawbones and repositions them to align correctly. This procedure can improve bite function, relieve pain, and provide a more balanced facial appearance. Often performed under general anesthesia, this surgery requires a recovery period during which patients may need to follow specific dietary restrictions and oral care instructions.
4. Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions that occur when the lip or the roof of the mouth (palate) doesn’t form properly during fetal development. This can cause significant functional and cosmetic issues, including difficulty eating, speaking, and breathing.
Dr. John Won is involved in the surgical repair of cleft lips and palates, often performed in stages, beginning in infancy and continuing through adolescence. These surgeries restore the normal structure of the face and mouth, improving both appearance and functionality. The procedure is highly individualized and often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including speech therapy and orthodontics.
5. Facial Trauma Surgery
Facial trauma surgery is performed to address injuries to the bones and soft tissues of the face. This can include fractures to the jaw, cheekbones, or eye sockets resulting from accidents, falls, or physical altercations. Facial trauma surgeries aim to restore both the function and appearance of the affected areas.
In these surgeries, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon uses specialized techniques to realign the bones, fix them in place, and repair any soft tissue damage. Recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury, but these surgeries are essential for restoring facial structure and ensuring proper function.
Conclusion
Oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures designed to treat conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, and face. From routine tooth extractions to complex reconstructive surgeries, Dr. John Won expertise ensures that patients receive the highest quality care. Whether addressing cosmetic concerns, correcting functional issues, or repairing traumatic injuries, these surgeries play a pivotal role in enhancing patients’ health and well-being. If you’re considering any of these procedures, consulting with a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon is essential to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.
