What Can an Oral Surgeon in River Forest Do for Your Smile?
5 Signs You Need to See an Oral Surgeon
Many dental issues can be handled by your general dentist, but some situations require the specialized training and expertise of an oral surgeon. Knowing when to seek advanced care can make the difference between a quick recovery and ongoing complications. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, it may be time to consult an oral surgeon in River Forest.
At Cameo Dental Specialists, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide comprehensive surgical care in a comfortable, modern setting. Whether you need wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or treatment for facial trauma, our River Forest team is here to help. Here are five signs that indicate you may need oral surgery.
1. Impacted or Problematic Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to emerge, typically in the late teens or early twenties. Unfortunately, many people don’t have enough room in their jaws for these teeth to come in properly. When wisdom teeth become impacted (trapped beneath the gums or bone), they can cause pain, swelling, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth.
Common signs of impacted wisdom teeth include jaw pain, swollen or bleeding gums, difficulty opening your mouth, and bad breath or an unpleasant taste. Even if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing pain yet, your dentist may recommend removal as a preventive measure to avoid future complications.
Oral surgery for wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common procedures we perform. Using advanced imaging like cone beam 3D scans, our surgeons can plan your extraction precisely and ensure a smooth recovery.
2. Persistent Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorders
Chronic jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when you open your mouth, or difficulty chewing may indicate a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. While some TMJ issues can be managed with physical therapy or a nightguard, severe cases may require surgical intervention.
If conservative treatments haven’t relieved your symptoms, an oral surgeon in River Forest can evaluate whether you’re a candidate for TMJ surgery. Procedures may include arthrocentesis (flushing the joint), arthroscopy (minimally invasive joint surgery), or open joint surgery for more complex cases. Early evaluation is important. Delaying treatment can lead to increased pain, limited jaw function, and damage to the joint itself.
3. Severe Tooth Damage or Infection
Sometimes a tooth is too damaged to be saved with a root canal or crown. In these cases, extraction followed by tooth replacement may be the best option. If you’ve been told you need an extraction, especially a surgical one, you’ll want a specialist who is trained to handle complex cases safely and effectively.
Additionally, if you’ve developed a deep infection that hasn’t responded to antibiotics or endodontic treatment, oral surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue and prevent the spread of bacteria. Surgical drainage of abscesses or removal of cysts also falls under the expertise of an oral surgeon. At our River Forest location, our oral surgeons work closely with our endodontists and periodontists to provide coordinated care that puts your health first.
4. Missing Teeth and Need for Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most durable and natural-looking option for replacing missing teeth. However, the surgical placement of implants requires advanced training and precision. An oral surgeon evaluates your bone density, sinus anatomy, and overall oral health before carefully placing the titanium post that will support your new tooth.
In some cases, bone grafting or sinus lift procedures are needed to prepare the site for implants. These procedures are also performed by oral surgeons and are essential for ensuring implant success. If you’re considering dental implants, visiting an oral surgeon in River Forest ensures you’re getting the highest level of surgical expertise combined with the support of a multi-specialty team.
5. Facial Trauma or Jaw Injuries
Accidents happen, and when they involve the face or jaw, an oral surgeon is the right specialist to call. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to treat facial fractures, broken jaws, knocked-out teeth, and soft tissue injuries. Whether you’ve been in a car accident, sustained a sports injury, or experienced a fall, prompt treatment can prevent long-term complications. Our surgeons use advanced imaging and surgical techniques to restore both function and appearance after trauma.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit Cameo Dental Specialists in River Forest for oral surgery, your care begins with a thorough consultation. We’ll review your medical history, take digital X-rays or 3D scans, and explain your treatment options in detail. We offer sedation options to keep you comfortable during procedures, and our team provides clear aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be treated with compassion, respect, and professionalism.
Trust the Experts at Cameo Dental Specialists
If you’re experiencing any of these five signs, don’t wait. Early intervention can prevent complications and help you get back to normal life faster. Our River Forest location offers the convenience of a multi-specialty practice with the expertise of board-certified oral surgeons.
Schedule your consultation today and discover why patients throughout Chicagoland trust Cameo Dental Specialists for advanced oral surgery and compassionate care.