What Are the Most Common Types of Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery plays a crucial role in restoring dental health, improving function, and enhancing facial aesthetics. From minor procedures to more complex corrective treatments, these surgeries address both medical concerns and quality-of-life improvements. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth or a chronic jaw issue, understanding the most common types of oral surgery can help you feel more confident and informed.
At Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, patients receive advanced surgical care supported by state-of-the-art technology and world-class expertise. Our surgeons specialize in a wide range of treatments designed to restore comfort, appearance, and long-term oral health.
Key Takeaways:
- Oral surgery includes procedures involving the teeth, gums, jawbone, and facial structures.
- Common treatments include extractions, dental implants, bone grafting, periodontal surgery, and corrective jaw surgery.
- Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery provides advanced, comprehensive surgical solutions customized for each patient’s needs.
What Procedures Fall Under Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery refers to surgical treatments involving the teeth, gums, jawbone, and facial structures. These procedures can treat functional issues, correct oral disease, or improve overall appearance.
Below are the most common types of oral surgery and what they’re used for.
Tooth Extraction: When Is It Necessary?
Tooth extraction is one of the most frequently performed oral surgeries. While simple extractions can sometimes be done by a general dentist, more complex situations require an oral surgeon.
Common Reasons for Surgical Extractions
Patients are often referred to an oral surgeon when:
- A tooth is fully or partially impacted beneath the gumline
- Extractions are needed to prepare for dental implants
- Dental trauma results in fractures or severe damage
- Multiple teeth must be removed before placing a prosthetic device
Oral surgeons have the specialized tools and training to safely remove difficult or delicate teeth while protecting surrounding structures.
Learn more about Why Extractions are Needed.
Dental Implants: The Gold Standard for Tooth Replacement
Dental implant surgery replaces missing tooth roots with durable titanium posts anchored into the jawbone. Once healed, an implant supports a crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Why Patients Choose Implants
- They offer unmatched stability and chewing power
- Implants help prevent bone loss in the jaw
- They can replace single teeth or support multiple restorations
Treatments such as All-on-4 allow an entire arch of teeth to be secured using just four strategically placed implants—making full-mouth restoration more efficient and predictable.
Read more about our Complete Guide to All-on-4 Implants.
Bone Grafting: Preparing the Jaw for Implants
When a tooth has been missing for years, the surrounding bone may shrink or weaken. Bone grafting restores lost jawbone volume so it can properly support dental implants in the future.
How Bone Grafting Helps
- Rebuilds compromised bone structure
- Strengthens the site for long-term implant success
- Prevents further deterioration
This procedure is often the first step for patients wanting to restore their smile after long-term tooth loss.
Learn more about Bone Grafting for Dental Implants.
Periodontal Surgery: Treating Advanced Gum Disease
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria thrive. Periodontal surgery allows for deeper cleaning and infection control.
What the Procedure Involves
- Gum tissue is gently lifted to access infected areas
- Deep cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria
- Surgical repositioning of the gums supports proper healing
This surgery plays a crucial role in fighting gum disease and preserving natural teeth.
Corrective Jaw Surgery: Improving Function and Facial Balance
Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) is performed to fix abnormalities in jawbone structure or alignment.
Conditions It Can Address
- Overbites or underbites
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Facial asymmetry
- Breathing concerns
- Chronic jaw discomfort
This form of oral surgery can dramatically improve both oral function and overall facial appearance.
Learn if you are a Candidate for Jaw Surgery.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re dealing with damaged teeth, jaw concerns, gum disease, or missing teeth, Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery provides trusted, patient-focused care. Our experienced surgeons use advanced techniques to deliver safe, comfortable, and predictable results.
For more than 70 years, our practice has been serving Bergen County with patient-centered expert oral care. Our four convenient locations in Franklin Lakes, Hackensack, Ridgewood, and Westwood have received a combined 2,000+ Google reviews—and an average rating of 4.9 stars.
Personalized, gentle, comprehensive patient care is our number one priority.
Oral Surgery (FAQ)
Is oral surgery painful?
Discomfort is minimal thanks to anesthesia and sedation options. Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward.
How long is the recovery period?
Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
Do I need a referral to see an oral surgeon?
Not always—some patients come directly to us for evaluation.
Will insurance cover oral surgery?
Many medically necessary procedures are partially covered. Our team can help verify your benefits.
