Oral Surgery in Seattle
What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses on treating diseases, injuries, and defects impacting the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region. This includes the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face. From simple tooth extractions to complex reconstructive surgeries, oral surgeons like Dr. Thomas Sweeney at Dental Specialties Northwest in Seattle are trained to handle a wide array of conditions. Whether it’s an impacted wisdom tooth causing you discomfort or a more severe issue like a facial injury or oral cancer, oral surgery can provide the solution you need.
The Oral Surgery Treatment Process
Oral surgery is a multi-step process that begins with a comprehensive examination and ends with the surgical intervention and subsequent recovery.
Initial Consultation
The first step in the oral surgery process is an initial consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Sweeney will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays or other imaging tests, to understand the full scope of your condition. He will discuss your medical history, any symptoms you’re experiencing, and your treatment options. This is your opportunity to ask questions and express any concerns you may have about the surgery. The goal of this consultation is to ensure you’re fully informed and comfortable with the proposed treatment plan.
Pre-Surgical Preparation
Once your treatment plan has been agreed upon, the next step is pre-surgical preparation. This might involve taking certain medications, fasting for a specified period before the surgery, or arranging for transportation on the day of the procedure. Dr. Sweeney and his team will provide you with detailed instructions to follow to ensure your surgery goes as smoothly as possible.
The Surgery
The final step is the surgery itself. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, it may be performed under local or general anesthesia. Dr. Sweeney uses state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure precision and patient comfort. After the surgery, you’ll be given post-operative care instructions to aid your recovery.