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Oral Surgery

Overview

Oral surgery is any surgical procedure that affects the mouth or jaw area. This can include wisdom teeth, root canal, tooth removal, gum or bone grafts, and sometimes these surgeries involve repositioning the jaw. There are times when oral surgery may involve the removing of a tumor. These procedures require expertise beyond regular dentistry and we have the experienced experts to handle any and all oral surgery needs. We’ll answer all your questions and let you know if you even need oral surgery.

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Many times wisdom teeth do not have room to grow in properly so they cause problems with pain and infection and must be removed.
If a tooth is damaged, decayed or blocked from full eruption it may need to be extracted. Removing the tooth may save the bone.
An incision is made in the gum exposing the underlying bone and grafting material, processed bone minerals are applied, strengthening the area.
This procedure increases the amount of bone in the upper jaw, in the area of the premolar and molar teeth adding strength for implants.
If there is excessive gum recession a gum graft using existing tissue from the roof of the mouth can correct the problem relatively quickly.
If gums look more prominent than desired, our doctors are experienced in procedures to reestablish proper proportions of your gums and teeth.
Problems with the temporomandibular joint can affect the muscles in your face, cause pain and discomfort when chewing. Both can be fixed with surgery.
Botox is used for the reduction of wrinkles however it can also be used for muscle relief therapy, TMJ disorders and relieving migraine headaches.

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About
WHAT ARE THEY?

Between the ages of 17 and 21, you may see the arrival of your third set of molars, these molars are often called wisdom teeth because they come in at a mature age. When these teeth come in normally and erupt fully, they can help you chew and often cause no problems and only minor discomfort when they do arrive. If there is not enough jaw space wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they are stuck in the jaw or under the gums.

woman in protective eye wear receiving a dental procedure
dentist performing a dental procedure
DO I NEED THEM REMOVED?

When your wisdom teeth first come in if there is evidence of change in your mouth, you may have to have teeth removed. If you experience pain, infection, cysts, tumors, damage to neighboring teeth or gum disease, these could be attributed to your wisdom teeth. Likewise, if the teeth do not erupt fully or come in sideways and become impacted, they need to be removed. Also, your dentist may recommend the removal of your wisdom teeth as part of a treatment for braces.

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There can be a lot of pain associated with wisdom teeth that grow in wrong or are impacted. Gum disease and bone loss can sometimes be attributed to wisdom teeth. Now, with surgery, these problems can be alleviated.

Only if they are impacted or causing damage to other teeth. If they come in correctly and erupt fully, there’s no need to remove them.

Your teeth are an integral part of facial structure however, removing the wisdom teeth early means the face change will be minor and growth will change it again.

There is some discomfort. We would need to use instruments to pull the teeth from your gums. If the teeth are stuck under the gums an incision needs to be made.

No, once they are removed, they will not grow back. But, you may experience supernumerary teeth, which are extra teeth, also known as hyperdontia, that can grow anywhere in the mouth.

About
female dental hygienist performing a dental cleaning
What is it?

Tooth extraction is also known as having a tooth pulled. This is when the tooth is removed completely from the dental alveolus of the alveolar bone. Permanent teeth sometimes need to be removed.

two dental hygienists assisting with a tooth extraction
HOW IS IT DONE?

If not impacted, the problem tooth is grasped and rocked free. If the tooth is impacted, gum and bone tissue are cut away and then the tooth is grasped and gently removed.

woman receiving a dental cleaning
Do you need it?

One key indicator that you need a tooth extracted is pain. This can be attributed to decay, damage or disease. If the tooth is too damaged, it may need to be removed.

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Local anesthetics are used so that you won’t feel pain only pressure during an extraction. We make sure we do everything possible to make you comfortable and assuage all your fears about having a simple tooth extraction.

Yes. In fact, if the tooth is impacted, it may be broken in pieces to aid in the removal.
An untreated tooth infection can get worse over time, cause bone damage and be less manageable with time.
Some, but they are rare and may include; excessive bleeding, nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath and residual pan. Again, these are very rare and we monitor you closely.
Most healing will be done in about one to two weeks, new bone and gum tissue will grow over the opening and you can resume a regular diet.
About
dental tools and dentures
What is it?

When there is not enough bone in the jaw or the bone present isn’t strong enough to support an implant, a bone graft may be necessary. We use bone grafting material, naturally occurring and biocompatible, which is then grafted to the jawbone. Time is needed for the graft to create new, strong bone to support the implant. This can take several months. However, if there is only a small graft needed, this can be done at the same time as the implant surgery.

Do you need it?

Jawbone loss or recession can result in a sunken look to your face and it can contribute to tooth loss. If you have bone loss and you need a dental implant, a bone graft is usually necessary. Soft or weak bone density can also be cause for a bone graft. An implant needs strong bone in order for it to be strong and remain stable. An implant can stimulate bone growth, however, there has to be enough bone for the implant to take.

metal dental implants
Our Advanced Technology

With advances, we now have biocompatible grafting materials that can help strengthen the current bone and make an implant possible. Healing time can be reduced and bone growth can be stimulated. The implant is more secure and long-lasting.

This is a synthetic material that is readily available and cheaper than some alternatives. There is also less risk of donor-specific infection.
These are bone grafts that come from your own body. They are considered the “gold standard” of grafts. They have a high content of resident growth factors which make them ideal.
These are bone grafts similar to autografts as they are human in origin but usually come from a cadaver or a bone bank. Some worry about disease but a tight screening process and advancements in processing technology make disease virtually unseen in the U.S.
These are bones taken from another species, usually of the bovine variety. The organic portion has been completely removed so there is zero chance of contracting BSE, Mad Cow Disease.
About
What is it?

This surgery adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the premolar and molars. In the area between the jaw and the maxillary sinuses, the spaces on either side of the nose.

dentist checking patients teeth during dental check up
WHY IS IT DONE?

A sinus lift is done when there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw or when the sinuses are too close to the jaw preventing an implant from having purchase.

diagram of how a dental implant is screwed into the bone
Do you need it?

You may if you’ve had tooth loss it can lead to bone loss as well. If you’re having implants you will need sufficient strong bone for implants to be secure and stable.

Patient consulting with dentist about tooth pain
Our Advanced Technology

A sinus lift allows for bone material to be placed beneath the sinus cavity so that implants can be safely and securely placed and last for years to come. With advancements, most patients experience little discomfort during the procedure.

With a sinus lift, if your current bone is weak or lacking, adding bone material to the sinus area, you have more chances for your implants to be successful.
A sinus lift can assist your body’s natural rehabilitation process in delicate areas by restoring lost bone with natural bone.
A sinus lift is a very common procedure and it’s fairly routine when done by experts. Post-surgery you should not notice any changes to your sinus, allergies or your breathing.
There are many reasons for bone loss, cancer treatment, gum disease, smoking or heavy drinking can aid in the loss of bone. A sinus lift can repair and reverse this damage.
About
What is it?

This is a relatively simple surgery used to counteract the effects of gum recession. Gum tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and placed where receding tissue needs to be repaired. We will take time with you and discuss all your options in regard to gum recession before we start. A local anesthetic will be used so that there is no pain during the procedure. Gum recession, which happens very slowly, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other damage.

metal dental implants
dental tools and dentures
Do you need it?

If the gum tissue has receded to the point where the tooth and the root of the tooth have been overly exposed you may need this treatment. Sensitivity to hot and cold foods could be an indicator. Gum recession tends to occur very gradually and so it often goes unnoticed until it may be too late. This procedure can be done for cosmetic purposes, to even up the tooth to gum ratio. There are several options, we’ll find the best solution for you.

Our Advanced Technology

There are basically three different types of grafts that can be done; connective tissue, free gingival and pedicle grafts. Each one is highly effective but we’ll work with you to find the graft that best suits your needs.

Before any kind of gum grafting procedure, we will apply a local anesthetic so there should be no pain.
Yes, once the graft is complete, the effects will last and the healing process does not take very long.
Yes, there are some holistic remedies but none of them are as effective as a professional graft.
Yes. A gum graft can prevent further recession and it can prevent bone loss.
About
dentist explaining gum lift to patient
What is it?

A gingivectomy, or “gum lift” is a simple surgical procedure that removes any excessive soft tissue from around the gum line. Underneath this excessive tissue is your natural tooth. The procedure is quick, safe and effective with lasting results.

dentist explaining gum lift procedure with plastic model
How is it done?

With our advanced soft tissue surgical technology, the procedure is relatively painless. We use a Radiosurge electrosurgery unit that is specifically designed for delicate and intricate soft tissue removal and management. No scalpels or harsh cutting is involved.

woman in red shirt and red lipstick smiling
Who would benefit?

Anyone with excessive soft tissue build-up or someone whose teeth inadequately erupted from the gums when they were growing up. In either case, a “gummy smile” is easily rectified with this procedure. The procedure gives you a much clearer smile.

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A gingivectomy raises the gum line, resulting in a balancing of the tooth to gum ratio for a fuller, brighter smile. This can build self-confidence giving you a boost in your self-esteem. Never underestimate the power of a beautiful smile.

If you have too much gum covering your teeth the results of a gum lift will be immediately noticeable and there is no lengthy healing time.
The results of a gum lift are permanent. Because the soft tissue is removed, there’s no need to repeat the process once it’s been done. Your post gum lift smile will remain.
The procedure is purely cosmetic. Although we do use it to remove hollows that could harbor bacteria, it is not a cure for gum disease. That is best confronted with a strong oral hygiene regimen.
In the past, this procedure could only be done with a scalpel, now, with our advanced Radiosurge technology, there is no cutting so there is no pain.
About
woman receiving dental consultation
What is it?

TMD describes the most common forms of jaw pain and inflammation, it stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ is an abbreviation for the joint itself; the temporomandibular joint. The terms are used interchangeably.

woman receiving a consultation for a smile makeover
WHO EXPERIENCES IT?

TMD affects roughly 10 million people with issues like jaw popping, neck and back problems as well as migraine headaches. Each case is unique and needs to be addressed by a specialist. Do not try to “power through”.

dentist providing patient with a digital smile design consultation
WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Over the counter pain medications may be prescribed or muscle relaxers if the pain is too severe. A mouth guard may be needed to prevent tooth grinding. In extreme cases, surgery might be required to restore full TMJ motion.

Our Advanced Technology

TMD can run the gamut from simple popping to serious loss of jaw use. We take the time to listen and understand fully what you’re experiencing and then, we recommend the proper treatment for your situation.

TMD refers to the disorders of the jaw, where TMJ is an abbreviation for the actual joint.
Injury to the teeth or jaw, a misalignment of the jaw, teeth grinding or clenching, poor posture, stress, arthritis or gum chewing.
Yes, with some self-care practices it can go away. Stress relief or awareness of posture. But, a specialist can help you with remedies.
Yes, a clicking jaw is a symptom of TMD which is connected to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
About
WHAT IS BOTOX?

Botox is most commonly used for the reduction of wrinkles however it has many therapeutic properties. Botox can be used for muscle relief therapy, TMJ disorders and relieving migraine headaches. When responsibly used by trained doctors, its neurotoxic effects can be harnessed therapeutically by temporarily blocking the nerve stimulation to specific muscle fibers. Backed by 15 years of clinical studies, Botox has been shown to prevent up to 9 headache days per month and is proven to reduce symptoms of TMD as well.

patient being administered a syringe in the lips
male patient being administered a syringe in the forehead
WHAT ARE FILLERS?

Fillers are products such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and calcium hydroxylapatite, that add fullness to parts of the face and reduce the look of wrinkles. Usually, these injectable fillers can be applied in a single visit and they can last up to six months at a time depending on location. Fillers can be used to add plumpness to lips that appear thin and flat. They can also relax the wrinkles and soften the worried look that can come from lines between the brows.

Our Advanced Technology

Both Botox & Fillers can be used for cosmetic as well as therapeutic purposes. Relaxing migraines, smoothing wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and forehead or plumping lips, when administered by trained professionals, the results are lasting and beautiful.

Muscle movement can cause wrinkles. These are known as dynamic wrinkles or sometimes “expression lines”. Botox only works on these types of wrinkles.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons considers Botox to be safe. There are some minor side effects but most of these are only temporary.

Calcium hydroxylapatite, which is a mineral-like compound found in bones. Hyaluronic acid, which is found in some fluids and tissues in the body, Polylactic acid, which stimulates the skin to make more collagen, Polyalkylimide, a transparent gel that is compatible with the body.

There are, however, most cosmetic specialists suggest temporary fillers as permanent ones cannot adjust to the changes in bone structure and skin that occur with the aging process and end up looking very bad.

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