Aside from brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular oral exams, taking care of your smile means recognizing when your teeth need a little extra help. Oral surgery might sound like a big step, but it’s often the best way to relieve pain, restore function, or protect your oral health.
Whether you’re struggling with missing teeth, stubborn toothaches, or sensitivity that won’t quit, understanding the symptoms can help you get the care you need before things get worse.
We’ll focus on the telltale signs that you might need to visit oral surgeons in Virginia Beach, VA, for dental implant surgery, tooth extractions, or root canals.
When Is Dental Implant Surgery the Right Choice?
Missing Teeth Are Impacting Your Life
Are you missing teeth and finding it harder to chew your favorite foods or speak clearly? Gaps in your smile aren’t just a cosmetic concern—they can affect your ability to enjoy life. Dental implants provide a permanent, natural-looking solution that lets you savor steak night or your morning bagel without stress.
Your Dentures or Bridges Are Driving You Crazy
If your dentures slip at the worst possible moments or your bridges feel like a hassle, it might be time to consider dental implant surgery. They’re stable, reliable, and eliminate the need for constant adjustments or replacements.
Bone Loss in Your Jaw Is Noticeable
Over time, missing teeth cause bone loss in the jaw, making your face appear sunken or aged. If your dentist has mentioned this issue or you’ve noticed changes in your facial structure, implants could restore both your smile and your confidence.
Sometimes, a bone graft is needed to ensure your jaw is strong enough to support implants. The procedure involves adding bone material to the jaw to rebuild its strength and density, creating a solid foundation for the dental implant.
When Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth Pain That Just Won’t Quit
If you’re suffering from a throbbing, unrelenting pain that keeps you up at night and over-the-counter remedies don’t cut it, an extraction might be necessary to stop the pain.
This type of pain often occurs when a tooth is severely damaged or infected, causing pressure and irritation to the nerves. An extraction can help by removing the source of the pain and preventing the infection from spreading to other teeth or areas of the mouth.
Extensive Decay or Damage
Sometimes, a tooth is too far gone to be saved by a filling or crown. If your dentist says the damage is beyond repair, an extraction is the next step to protect your oral health. While saying goodbye to a tooth might not be fun, it’s a smart move to prevent infection or complications.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When these late bloomers don’t have enough room to grow, they can cause swelling, pain, and even push other teeth out of alignment. If you notice discomfort at the back of your mouth, it’s time to consult an oral surgeon.
Removing wisdom teeth early can save you pain (and orthodontist visits) later.
Is It Time for a Root Canal?
Sensitivity That Won’t Let Up
Do hot coffee or ice-cold water send shockwaves through your tooth? If that sensitivity lingers long after your drink is gone, it could be a sign of a damaged or infected nerve. A root canal removes the infected tissue while keeping your tooth intact.
Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling or tenderness near a specific tooth could indicate an infection at the root. Sometimes, you might even notice pus or a bad taste in your mouth. This is your body’s way of waving a red flag.
Deep Decay or Infection
If your dentist has spotted an infection or deep decay spreading toward your tooth’s root, a root canal is likely in your future. It’s a straightforward procedure that can save your tooth and stop the infection from spreading further.
Don’t Wait to Visit Oral Surgeons in Virginia Beach, VA
If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, let Advanced Sedation Dentistry take care of you. Our team specializes in safe, comfortable oral surgery with an in-house anesthesiologist to make your experience as smooth as possible. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!