Fears surrounding oral surgery have been around for centuries. From stories about bad experiences and viral “procedure gone bad” tales, many people are swayed to postpone or neglect necessary oral procedures. This fear is not only baseless but also dangerous.
There are many misconceptions about oral surgery that, if debunked, can alleviate the common anxiety associated with these procedures. Here are some of the most common myths surrounding oral surgery and why you should not believe them.
Myth #1: Oral Surgery Hurts
One of the most common misconceptions you’ll hear regarding oral surgery is that it is painful. This false information can be traced back to the history of dentistry. In the past, oral procedures were excruciating and not always safe due to poor techniques, inadequate tools, and lack of anesthetics.
With today’s advancements in dental technology and techniques, oral surgery can be a pain-free experience. Depending on the type of surgery you need, you could spend the entire operation asleep under general anesthesia or numbed by local anesthesia. Either way, modern pain management techniques ensure you won’t feel discomfort during the procedure.
Myth #2: Recovery From Oral Surgery Is Extensive
Another commonly touted misconception is that oral surgery has an extensive recovery time. However, while certain oral procedures can have a longer recovery period, not all do. Even the procedures that do, often have very manageable discomfort.
For example, getting your wisdom teeth removed might require a few days of rest and a soft food diet, but it’s not as daunting as many people make it out to be. Further, advancements in technology have made many oral procedures minimally invasive. These advances mean that recovery times are reduced significantly compared to traditional methods.
Myth #3: The Anesthesia with Oral Surgery Is Risky
Many people have fears about the anesthesia used in oral surgery, when there is nothing to be afraid of. Anesthesia has been a vital medical innovation in surgery, allowing complex procedures to be performed safely and comfortably.
Historically, anesthesia was based on opium and other narcotics, which could contribute to the fear surrounding it. Today’s anesthesia is significantly safer than it used to be. With advancements in technology and anesthetics, the risks associated with anesthesia are minimal. The most common risk associated with anesthesia is unwanted drug interaction, which typically only happens when patients don’t disclose their medication history to the oral surgeon beforehand.
Ensuring a Safe and Positive Oral Surgery Experience
If you’re worried by the thought of oral surgery, there are numerous ways to ease your fears and ensure a positive experience. Here are some tips and tricks for a successful, positive, and safe oral surgery experience:
- Find a Reputable Oral Surgeon: Finding a reliable and experienced oral surgeon is critical to a successful procedure. Ask for recommendations from friends and family or read reviews online to find the best oral surgeon in your area.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your surgeon about the procedure, anesthesia, and recovery process. Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and make you feel more comfortable.
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and safe recovery. This instruction could include taking prescribed medications as directed and following a soft food diet if necessary.
- Disclose Necessary Medical History: As mentioned above, most anesthesia errors occur due to undisclosed medication history. Before the procedure, inform your surgeon of any medications or supplements you take.
- Don’t Push Through When Sick: It’s best to reschedule your oral surgery appointment if you’re feeling under the weather. Being sick can affect your body’s ability to heal and increase the risk of complications.
It’s essential to remember that most fears surrounding oral surgery are rooted in outdated information and misconceptions. With today’s advancements in technology and techniques, oral surgery can be a safe, pain-free, and quick experience.
Schedule Your Oral Surgery Appointment Now
Misconceptions and misinformation are rampant in this digital age, but you shouldn’t let fear become a hurdle to your oral health. If you require oral surgery, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the reputable oral surgeons. At Green Valley Oral Surgery.
Our experienced team at Green Valley Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center is dedicated to providing safe and comfortable oral procedures. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier and happier smile.