Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures aimed at treating various dental and jaw-related conditions. Whether it’s a minor dental procedure or a more complex surgical intervention, understanding the common types of oral surgeries can help you feel more informed and prepared. Here’s a look at the most frequently performed oral surgery procedures.

Tooth Extraction
What it Involves: Tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgery procedures, and it’s often done when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or overcrowded. Wisdom tooth extractions, in particular, are performed regularly, especially if the teeth are impacted or causing pain.
What to Expect:
- Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area around the tooth.
- For more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used, especially for wisdom tooth removal.
- The tooth is carefully removed from the socket, and stitches may be required for larger extractions.
Why It’s Done:
- To remove a tooth that’s beyond saving due to decay or damage.
- To alleviate discomfort caused by wisdom teeth or overcrowding.
- To reduce the risk of infection or other dental complications.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
What it Involves: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth located at the back of your mouth. These teeth often become impacted or only partially emerge, leading to pain and other dental problems.
What to Expect:
- Wisdom tooth removal often requires oral surgery, especially when the tooth is impacted or beneath the gum line.
- The procedure typically involves local anesthesia, and in more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
- The surgeon will make an incision in the gum, remove the tooth, and may need to remove bone tissue to access the tooth.
Why It’s Done:
- To prevent infection, decay, or damage to surrounding teeth.
- To alleviate pain caused by impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth.
- To reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues.
Dental Implants
What it Involves: Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. This procedure involves surgically placing a metal post or frame into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement root for a missing tooth. Once the implant is in place, a crown or bridge is attached to restore function and appearance.
What to Expect:
- The procedure is done under local anesthesia, and sedation may be offered for added comfort.
- The implant is placed into the jawbone, and a healing period of several months is required for the bone to fuse with the implant.
- After the healing process, the dentist will place a crown or bridge on top of the implant.
Why It’s Done:
- To replace a missing tooth and restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
- To improve the appearance of your smile and boost self-confidence.
- To maintain bone density in the jaw and prevent further oral complications.
Gum Grafting
What it Involves: Gum grafting is a procedure used to treat gum recession, a condition where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots. Gum grafting can help restore the gumline, prevent tooth sensitivity, and improve the overall health of your gums.
What to Expect:
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the gum tissue.
- A small piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or another area of the gums and grafted onto the affected site.
- Stitches are used to secure the graft and promote healing.
Why It’s Done:
- To treat gum recession and protect the roots of the teeth.
- To reduce tooth sensitivity and discomfort caused by exposed roots.
- To improve the overall appearance of the gums and smile.
Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
What it Involves: Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is used to correct misaligned jaws and teeth. This procedure is often recommended when the bite is significantly off, causing difficulty in chewing, speaking, or even breathing. It can also improve facial appearance.
What to Expect:
- General anesthesia is used, and the surgery is often performed in a hospital setting.
- The surgeon will reposition the jawbones to align the teeth and improve function.
- Recovery involves a period of rest and follow-up visits to monitor healing.
Why It’s Done:
- To correct bite issues and improve function, such as chewing and speaking.
- To enhance facial appearance by addressing jaw alignment problems.
- To alleviate discomfort or health issues caused by an improperly aligned jaw.
Conclusion
Oral surgery plays a vital role in maintaining both the health and aesthetics of your mouth. From routine tooth extractions to complex dental implant placements, these procedures help resolve a variety of dental issues and improve your overall quality of life. If you are facing any of these conditions, it’s essential to consult with a skilled oral surgeon who can guide you through the process and ensure a successful outcome. By understanding the most common types of oral surgery, you can approach your treatment with confidence and peace of mind.