The types of dental surgeries are specialized procedures that address complex conditions of the mouth, teeth, gums, jaw, and other facial structures. In this article, we explain the main types of dental surgeries performed in Peru, when they are necessary, and what you should consider.
Oral health is fundamental to our overall well-being, and in some cases, a cleaning or treatment with braces is not enough.
1. Wisdom tooth extraction (third molars)
It is one of the most common dental surgeries. It is performed when the wisdom teeth have not erupted properly, are impacted, or cause pain, swelling, dental crowding, or infections.
🔹 Common indications:
- Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
- Frequent infections
- Lack of space in the jaw
In many cases, this surgery is done with local anesthesia and requires 2 to 3 days of rest.
2. Dental implant surgery
Dental implants are a modern, aesthetic, and functional solution that has become very popular in dental implant clinics in Lima, Peru.
This procedure involves placing a titanium implant in the jawbone to replace one or more missing teeth.
🔹 Advantages:
- Permanent replacement of teeth
- Improvement of chewing and speech
- Natural aesthetic results
It is important to have enough jawbone, so it is sometimes combined with a maxillary sinus lift or a bone graft.
3. Periodontal surgery
This is performed to treat advanced gum diseases (periodontitis) that do not respond to conventional treatment. It involves removing the tartar accumulated beneath the gums and regenerating the damaged tissue.
🔹 Indications:
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bleeding and inflammation
It is essential to prevent the loss of dental pieces.
4. Orthognathic surgery
This surgery is performed to correct bone deformities in the jaw or maxilla that affect the bite, facial aesthetics, or function when speaking and chewing.
🔹 Recommended when there is:
- Prognathism or retrognathism
- Open or crossbite
- Facial asymmetry
| Problem | Description | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Prognathism | Excessive projection of the lower jaw | Surgery to retract the jaw |
| Retrognathism | Retracted lower jaw | Surgery to advance the jaw |
| Open bite | The upper and lower teeth do not touch | Surgery to adjust the position of the jaws |
| Crossbite | The upper teeth are located inside the lower teeth | Surgery to correct the alignment of the jaws |
| Facial asymmetry | Unevenness in the shape of the face | Surgery to balance the facial structure |
It is a complex surgery that usually requires hospitalization and complementary treatment with orthodontic specialists before and after.
5. Frenectomy
It is a minor surgery in which the labial or lingual frenulum (the small tissue that connects the lip or tongue to the gums) is removed or modified when it causes difficulties in speaking, eating, or affects dental development.
🔹 Very common in children with “tongue tie”.
6. Apical surgery (apicoectomy)
This is performed when a root canal treatment has not been effective. Access is gained to the tip of the tooth root to remove the infection and seal the area.
This is performed when a root canal treatment has not been effective. Access is gained to the tip of the tooth root to remove the infection and seal the area.
🔹 Helps to preserve the dental piece and avoid its extraction.
7. Bone or gum grafts
In cases of bone or gum loss, a graft may be performed to regenerate the lost tissue, especially before placing an implant or for aesthetic reasons.
| Type of Graft | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bone graft | Bone transplant to regenerate the maxillary structure | Prepare the bone for implants or improve aesthetics |
| Gum graft | Gingival tissue transplant to cover exposed areas | Prevent gum recession and improve appearance |
Considerations before dental surgery
Dental surgeries are safe and effective procedures that can significantly improve oral health and quality of life.
✅ Consult a certified dental surgeon
✅ Undergo a complete evaluation (X-rays, CT scans)
✅ Follow all pre and post-operative instructions
✅ Verify that the clinic is duly authorized by the Dental College of Peru (COP) and the National Superintendence of Health (SUSALUD)
The dental surgeries are safe and effective procedures that can significantly improve oral health and quality of life. In Peru, more and more clinics have advanced technology and trained specialists to offer these types of treatments with high standards.
If you are considering a dental surgery, it is best to consult a specialist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and explain your options.
