Welcome to Memorial Square Dental’s website blog. Below are blog articles and stories that may interest you. Content can also be filtered by subject by clicking on the categories to the left. If you have any questions about any of the NE Calgary Dental Services at Memorial Dental, then please call us at (403) 273-7666.

4 Questions Answered About Oral Surgery

The term “pulling teeth” is synonymous with unpleasant things in life, such as having your child eat vegetables or driving to work during rush hour. While nobody enjoys undergoing oral surgery, modern advances in dentistry have made tooth extraction much less daunting.

Even today, a variety of misconceptions cloud the truth about oral surgery. Is it as painful as it sounds? Will I be on medication for a week? Is extraction really necessary in my case? Here we answer the most common questions about oral surgery and how treatment at Memorial Square Dental Clinic in Calgary NE is nothing like “pulling teeth.”

What procedures are included in “oral surgery”?

Our most common oral surgery procedure is extraction, and in many cases, wisdom tooth removal. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, but those erupting tilted or sideways, without enough space to grow, or with an infection or signs of decay will usually require extraction.

We also remove teeth as a final resort in caring for damaged teeth, such as when a tooth fracture extends below the gum line or when a severe infection is present. Extraction may also be necessary to make room for orthodontics or a child’s emerging permanent teeth.

Isn’t oral surgery painful?

Our patients should not be concerned about oral surgery with the comfort and conveniences of modern dentistry available at Memorial Dental. Sedation dentistry will allow you to relax through the procedure, and pain medication can be prescribed for post-surgery discomfort.

Arrange for someone to drive you to and from our dental office on the day of your oral surgery as sedation takes some time to wear off after the procedure. Your friend or family member driver can also help you pick up your prescription as you return home.

Should you prefer not to be sedated, we can also use local anesthetics to keep you comfortable.

What is the recovery like?

Recovery time for oral surgery varies between patients, but is generally between 3-5 days. As complications can arise from any procedure, depending on your specific circumstance, we may recommend taking time away from work or school to allow for a complete recovery. Discomfort will last for a few days and can be managed through medication.

Soft, nutritious foods like soup, smoothies, and yogurt are suggested during recovery. Arrange for low-energy activities to keep occupied after the appointment, like a movie marathon with a friend or that new book you’ve wanted to read.

Do I really need oral surgery?

We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about your treatment so please ask. It is best to have wisdom tooth and other extractions completed when your dentist recommends, avoiding further complications and increased pain caused by waiting too long. With this in mind, consider having the procedure when you can take time away from work to allow for a comfortable recovery.

It’s normal to have questions about oral surgery, and our experienced team at Memorial Square Dental Clinic in NE Calgary is more than happy to provide you with answers about your procedure. Please contact us today to book an appointment or for more information.