Our Summary

This research paper discusses cysts, which are abnormal pockets in the body that can contain fluid, gas, or semi-solid substances. There’s some disagreement among experts about what exactly qualifies as a cyst, but the authors aim to cover as many types as possible with their definition. Cysts in the mouth and jaws are quite common, and treating them is a crucial part of oral surgery. This is the third paper in a series, and it focuses on how to classify, diagnose, and treat the most common cysts found in the head and neck.

FAQs

  1. What types of substances can be found inside a cyst?
  2. How common are cysts in the mouth and jaws?
  3. What does the research paper focus on in terms of cysts in the head and neck?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This can include things like fasting before surgery, taking prescribed medications as directed, avoiding certain foods or activities after surgery, and attending follow-up appointments. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful surgery and smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for oral surgery include those with:

  • Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth that do not have enough room to emerge properly can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. Oral surgery may be recommended to remove impacted wisdom teeth.

  • Misaligned jaws: Patients with misaligned jaws may require oral surgery to correct the alignment and improve their bite.

  • Dental implants: Patients who are missing teeth may be recommended for oral surgery to place dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that support replacement teeth.

  • Jawbone loss: Patients with jawbone loss may require oral surgery to rebuild or regenerate the bone for dental implant placement or to improve the fit of dentures.

  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with TMJ disorders that do not respond to conservative treatments may be recommended for oral surgery to address the underlying cause of their pain and dysfunction.

  • Facial trauma: Patients who have suffered facial trauma, such as fractures or injuries to the mouth or jaws, may require oral surgery to repair the damage and restore function and aesthetics.

Overall, oral surgery may be recommended for a variety of reasons, including dental problems, facial trauma, and jaw disorders. 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:

  1. Consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the need for surgery and potential treatment options.
  2. Pre-operative tests such as X-rays or CT scans may be performed to assess the extent of the issue.
  3. The patient will receive instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting before the procedure and any medications to avoid.
  4. On the day of surgery, the patient will be given anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

After oral surgery:

  1. The patient may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  2. Post-operative instructions will be given on how to care for the surgical site, including proper oral hygiene and dietary restrictions.
  3. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the healing process and remove any sutures if necessary.
  4. The patient should avoid strenuous activities and follow all post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of cyst do I have in my mouth or jaw?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the oral surgery procedure?
  3. How long will the recovery process take after the oral surgery?
  4. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  5. What are the success rates of treating this type of cyst with oral surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  7. How experienced are you in performing oral surgery procedures for cysts?
  8. Can you provide a detailed explanation of the surgical procedure, including anesthesia options and potential side effects?
  9. What steps can I take to prepare for the oral surgery and ensure a smooth recovery?
  10. Are there any specific dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to promote healing?

Reference

Authors: Hill CM, Renton T. Journal: Br Dent J. 2017 Oct 27;223(8):573-584. doi: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2017.916. PMID: 29074909