Our Summary

This research paper discusses the impact of the 2019 novel coronavirus (also known as 2019-nCoV) outbreak on oral and maxillofacial surgery practices in China. As of February 23, 2020, over 77,000 cases of the virus have been confirmed in the country, disrupting the economy, society, and regular medical procedures. The paper suggests necessary safety measures to protect oral and maxillofacial surgery staff from the virus.

FAQs

  1. What impact has the 2019 novel coronavirus had on oral and maxillofacial surgery practices in China?
  2. What safety measures are suggested in the research paper to protect oral and maxillofacial surgery staff from the virus?
  3. How has the coronavirus outbreak disrupted regular medical procedures in China?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, including fasting before the procedure and avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding. Additionally, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene before and after surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Finally, be sure to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to promote proper healing and minimize complications.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for oral surgery include:

  1. Patients with impacted teeth: Impacted teeth are teeth that are unable to fully emerge through the gums due to being blocked by other teeth. This can lead to pain, infection, and other complications, necessitating oral surgery to remove the impacted tooth.

  2. Patients with severe tooth decay: Patients with severe tooth decay that cannot be treated with fillings or other conservative measures may require oral surgery, such as a tooth extraction or root canal therapy.

  3. Patients with gum disease: Advanced cases of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, may require oral surgery to remove infected tissue, restore lost bone, or reposition the gums to improve oral health.

  4. Patients in need of dental implants: Dental implants are a common treatment for patients missing one or more teeth. Oral surgery is typically required to place the implant into the jawbone and attach a replacement tooth.

  5. Patients with jaw misalignment: Patients with severe jaw misalignment, also known as malocclusion, may require orthognathic surgery to correct the alignment of the jaws and improve bite function.

  6. Patients with facial trauma: Patients who have experienced facial trauma, such as a broken jaw or facial fractures, may require oral surgery to repair the damage and restore function and appearance.

  7. Patients with oral pathology: Patients with oral lesions, tumors, or cysts may require oral surgery to remove the abnormal tissue and prevent further complications.

Overall, patients who are experiencing severe dental or facial issues that cannot be addressed with conservative treatments may be recommended for oral surgery. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified oral surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.

Timeline

Before oral surgery:

  • Initial consultation with the oral surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes
  • Pre-operative assessment to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery
  • Preparing for the surgery by following any instructions provided by the oral surgeon, such as fasting before the procedure
  • Administering anesthesia or sedation to ensure the patient is comfortable during the surgery

After oral surgery:

  • Recovery period immediately following the surgery, which may include monitoring vital signs and managing pain and swelling
  • Post-operative instructions provided by the oral surgeon, including guidelines for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene
  • Follow-up appointments to check on the healing process and remove any stitches
  • Long-term monitoring of the surgical site to ensure proper healing and address any complications that may arise

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after oral surgery can vary depending on the specific procedure and the individual’s unique circumstances. It is important for patients to closely follow their oral surgeon’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What safety measures are in place at the oral surgery facility to protect against the spread of COVID-19?

  2. What steps can I take to minimize my risk of contracting the virus during oral surgery?

  3. How has the outbreak of COVID-19 impacted the scheduling of oral surgery procedures?

  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider in light of the current situation?

  5. What are the potential risks and benefits of postponing oral surgery procedures at this time?

  6. How will the oral surgery staff ensure proper hygiene and sanitation practices during my procedure?

  7. Are there any specific guidelines or precautions I should follow before and after oral surgery to reduce the risk of infection?

  8. What is the protocol for handling patients who may have been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19?

  9. How will the oral surgery facility handle emergencies or complications related to the virus during and after procedures?

  10. Are there any additional resources or information available for patients seeking oral surgery during the COVID-19 outbreak?

Reference

Authors: Zhao Z, Gao D. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2020 Apr;58(3):250-253. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2020.03.001. PMID: 32336398