What is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed within the mouth. While some general dentists are qualified to carry out certain oral surgery procedures, many choose to refer patients to specialists known as oral surgeons, who have received extensive training in the field of surgical treatments for the mouth, teeth, and jaws.
Our surgeons are experts in handling more complex dental surgeries and are equipped to deal with both common and advanced cases. With our expert team and advanced facilities, you can be confident that you’ll receive the leading care you need.
Among the most frequently performed procedures by oral surgeons is the extraction or removal of teeth, particularly wisdom teeth.
What to expect
• Additional x-rays or scans may be required if recent images are unavailable or further investigation is needed before treatment.
• Your clinician will explain all suitable treatment options, including the benefits, risks and expected recovery period, allowing you to make an informed decision.
• Many treatments can be carried out under local anaesthetic, with sedation options available for suitable patients who may feel anxious about treatment.
• Following treatment, some swelling, discomfort and bruising can be expected and will usually improve as the area heals.
• You will receive detailed post-operative instructions to support your recovery and help minimise complications after treatment.
• Our team will be available should you have any concerns during your recovery, and we may arrange a review appointment where appropriate.
- Patients who take Warfarin
- Patients taking warfarin should be advised that an INR reading will be required within 24 hours prior to treatment.
- INR should be <4.0
- Within your therapeutic range
- Blood Sugar Levels
- Before your appointment, make sure that you have eaten a good meal beforehand to keep your blood sugar levels up – also because you will be numb for a few hours afterwards
Please bring with you...
Medications
A list of any medications you are currently taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, supplements and blood thinners.
ALLERGIES
Details of any allergies or sensitivities, including medications, latex, dressings, anaesthetics or foods that may be relevant to your treatment.
MEDICAL history
Information about your medical conditions and previous treatments, including any hospital admissions, surgeries or significant diagnoses.
Tests & reports
Any recent blood test results, scans or medical reports that have been requested by our team, or provided by your GP or hospital specialist.
Information leaflets & forms
FAQs
You should eat a normal meal (unless instructed otherwise), bring a list of medications, and arrive a little early. If you have medical conditions, recent hospital letters, or allergies, please bring those too.
In most cases, yes. However, sometimes the surgeon may need to review your medical history, take new X-rays, or schedule the treatment for another day if the procedure is complex.
No. You will be numb during the procedure thanks to local anaesthetic. You may feel pressure but should not feel pain. After the anaesthetic wears off, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort or swelling.
Yes, if you have not had a recent X-ray or if the one provided by your dentist is unclear. X-rays help the surgeon safely assess the tooth, roots, and surrounding structures.
You may experience swelling, tenderness, or minor bleeding. This is normal. You will receive detailed after-care instructions to help the area heal properly.
You’ll need to avoid hard, crunchy, or hot foods for the first 24 hours. Stick to softer foods such as yoghurt, soup, mashed potato, or smoothies. Avoid drinking through a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot.
If needed, the oral surgeon may refer you to a hospital-based oral surgery department for more advanced care or if your medical condition requires hospital supervision.