Oral Surgery in Hoschton, GA: What to Expect & How to Prepare for Your Procedure

If you’ve been told you need oral surgery, you may feel anxious or unsure what to expect. At Traditions Dental, we’re committed to making your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common types of oral surgery, explain why they’re necessary, and share clear steps to prepare so that you feel confident and ready.

What are the different types of oral surgeries, and how to prepare?

Types of Oral Surgery & Why They Matter

Oral and maxillofacial surgery cover a wide range of procedures involving teeth, gums, jaws, and the surrounding tissues. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), these surgeries are often required when standard treatments aren’t enough.

Damaged or Severely Infected Tooth

When a tooth is beyond repair with fillings or root canals, surgical extraction is often the best path to relief and longer‑term oral health.

Impacted or Crowded Teeth

Teeth that cannot erupt due to lack of space—especially wisdom teeth—may become infected or cause bite problems and often need removal.

Preparing for Dentures or Implants

Before a denture fits properly or an implant is placed, bone grafting or tissue adjustment may be necessary to create a stable foundation.

Dental Implant Placement

Implants are a highly effective permanent solution for missing teeth. They often involve surgical placement into the jawbone and can fall under the category of oral surgery.

Jaw‑Joint Issues, Fractures & Tumors

From corrective jaw procedures (orthognathic surgery) to treatment of tumors or trauma, some cases require advanced surgical care.

Types of Oral Surgery & How to Prepare for Treatment in Hoschton, GA

Following a few simple steps can help minimise stress, speed up your recovery, and deliver the best outcome. We recommend:

1. Talk with us openly

   Share your questions, health history, medications and any anxiety. At Traditions Dental, we prioritise gentle, respectful care.

   
   

2. Discuss anesthesia & logistics

   Many surgeries use local anesthesia or conscious sedation. For procedures requiring sedation, arrange for a ride home and someone to stay with you for 1–2 hours post‑op.

   
   

3. Understand your surgery

   Ask us what the procedure involves, the healing timeline and what you’ll need to do afterward. Being informed reduces fear of the unknown.

   
   

4. Food, drink & medications

   If sedation or general anesthesia is involved, you may need to fast for 6–8 hours. If local anesthesia only, a light, healthy meal 2 hours ahead is often sufficient. Continue medications as directed, unless advised otherwise.

   
   

5. Maintain oral hygiene

   Don’t skip your routine brushing and flossing—even if you’re nervous. A clean mouth lowers infection risk and supports healing.

   
   

6. Avoid alcohol and tobacco

   Alcohol can interfere with healing and sedation, and smoking slows recovery significantly. It’s best to avoid both 24 hours before surgery.

   
   

7. Dress comfortably

   Wear loose, breathable clothing, avoid heavy makeup or tight jewellery and plan to be comfortable for the day of your procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Surgery

What does oral surgery mean?

Oral surgery refers to surgical procedures performed in or around the mouth and jaw. It includes treatments such as tooth extractions, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, gum reshaping, and biopsies for oral lesions. These procedures are often necessary when traditional dental treatments aren’t enough to restore oral health.

What is the most common oral surgery?

The most common oral surgery is the removal of impacted or problematic teeth, especially wisdom teeth. These third molars often lack enough space to erupt properly, leading to pain, infection, or misalignment. Surgical extraction helps prevent future complications and maintains proper oral function.

How long is recovery from oral surgery?

Recovery time depends on the type and complexity of the procedure. Simple extractions may heal within 3–5 days, while more involved surgeries like dental implants or jaw procedures may take 1–2 weeks for initial healing and a few months for complete bone integration. Dr. Nick will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support your recovery.

How painful is oral surgery?

With modern anesthesia and sedation techniques, most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some soreness, swelling, or bruising afterward is normal, but it can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or medication prescribed by Dr. Nick. At Traditions Dental, we prioritize gentle care to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

We hope this blog answered some of your oral surgery in Hoschton, GA questions. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us at Traditions Dental. Our team will be there to assist you in your journey to better oral and overall health.

If you have questions about oral surgery, call us today 706-658-2383. If you have any additional questions about your oral hygiene, please feel free to contact us at Traditions Dental. To learn more about Traditions Dental visit our About Us page. For more tips and information feel free to follow us on social media on IG @traditionsdental and Facebook @traditionsdental.