Glossary Entry: Dental Surgeon

Overview

Definition: A dental surgeon is a highly skilled dental professional who specializes in performing surgical procedures related to the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. They are trained to diagnose and treat various oral health conditions that require surgical intervention.

Detailed Description

Types and Variations

Variations: Dental surgeons may specialize in different areas such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontal surgery, endodontic surgery, or dental implant surgery, each with specific applications in treating oral health issues.

Indications

Common Uses: Dental surgeons commonly perform procedures like tooth extractions, wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, gum grafts, and jaw surgery to address a wide range of dental problems.

Insertion and Placement

Procedure: Dental surgeons follow meticulous procedures for the correct insertion and placement of dental implants, including assessing bone density, determining implant size and placement, and ensuring proper healing post-surgery.

Clinical Considerations

Potential Complications

Risks: Potential complications of dental surgery include infection, nerve damage, bleeding, and allergic reactions to anesthesia, among others. It is crucial for dental surgeons to carefully monitor and manage these risks.

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Requirements: After dental surgery, patients must follow post-operative care instructions provided by the dental surgeon, which may include regular oral hygiene practices, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments for monitoring and maintenance.

Additional Information

Related Devices

Associated Terms: Dental surgeons often work with devices like surgical instruments, dental drills, sutures, and dental imaging tools to support their surgical procedures.

Innovations and Advancements

Recent Developments: Recent advancements in dental surgery include the use of digital imaging technologies for precise treatment planning, advanced surgical techniques for minimally invasive procedures, and the development of biocompatible materials for dental implants.

Regulatory and Safety Notes

Regulations: Dental surgeons must adhere to strict regulatory guidelines and safety protocols to ensure patient safety and quality of care. Compliance with regulations from organizations like the ADA and FDA is essential in dental surgical practice.