When your mouth needs surgical care, clear steps and guidance really matter. If you are looking for a dentist in Cape Town, you have come to the right place. At TSB Dental and Facial Aesthetics, we make sure to clearly explain how mouth surgery is approached and what you can expect before, during, and after treatment.
What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery refers to procedures that treat problems of the teeth, gums, and supporting bone. Many are brief, planned appointments carried out with local anaesthetic. The aim is to remove infection or obstruction, protect neighbouring structures, and prepare your mouth for long-term stability.
Why might I need mouth surgery?
You may be a candidate if you notice:
- Ongoing pain or swelling around a tooth
- A broken tooth that cannot be restored predictably
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted or repeatedly inflamed
- A persistent ulcer, lump, or patch that needs assessment
- Bone loss in an area where a tooth is missing
- Food trapping or gum discomfort that does not improve
Early assessment is helpful. Minor issues are usually simpler to address.
Which oral surgery treatments are available?
At our dental practice in Cape Town, we provide a focused range of procedures:
- Surgical extraction (including wisdom teeth)
- Minor oral surgery (soft and hard tissue procedures)
- Biopsy and lesion removal
- Bone grafting and socket preservation
These options can be used alone or sequenced as part of a broader plan.
What happens at my appointment?
Your visit follows a calm, step-by-step process:
- Conversation about symptoms, medical history, and medicines
- Clinical examination with X-rays or scans if required
- Clear explanation of options, timing, and likely healing periods
- Local anaesthetic for comfort, with breaks available as needed
- Written after-care instructions and follow-up
You will know what is being done and why each step matters.
How does a surgical extraction work?
A surgical extraction removes a tooth when simple loosening is not suitable, for example, with curved roots or partial impaction. You can expect the following:
- A small incision is made.
- The tooth can be sectioned into pieces for safe removal.
- The area is cleaned, and the gum is closed with fine sutures that are removed or dissolved as advised.
- You will receive instructions on rest, cold compresses, and which foods to choose while the area settles.
What is a biopsy and lesion removal?
Biopsy and lesion removal are recommended when a patch, lump, or ulcer requires microscopic analysis. A small sample or the entire lesion (wound) is removed under local anaesthetic. The tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory. Results are discussed at a follow-up visit, along with any next steps. Most biopsies are quick and heal comfortably with simple care.
When is bone grafting useful?
Bone grafting rebuilds or preserves bone where it has thinned or where a tooth has just been removed. Socket preservation places graft material into the extraction site to support the ridge while it heals. This can make future options, such as implant planning or stabilising a denture, more predictable. Healing times vary, so you will be given a timeline that fits your goals.
How should I prepare and recover?
A little planning makes recovery smoother:
- Share a full list of medicines and allergies
- Eat a light meal before your appointment unless advised otherwise
- Arrange transport if sedation has been planned
- Stock soft, cool foods for the first 24-48 hours
- Avoid smoking and alcohol during early healing
- Do not use straws for the first few days
- Start warm salt-water rinses from day two, as directed
- Take prescribed or recommended medicines exactly as advised
- Call the practice if you experience increasing pain, swelling, fever, or persistent bleeding
When should I contact a dentist in Cape Town?
If you have persistent tooth pain, recurring wisdom tooth flare-ups, a lesion that has not healed within two weeks, or you are planning treatment where bone support matters, an assessment is sensible. You will receive a practical plan that you can follow step by step.
Are you ready for the next step? Book an oral surgery consultation to discuss surgical extraction, biopsy and lesion removal, and bone grafting options suited to your needs.