The word “surgery” often brings to mind a stay in the hospital, general anesthesia, and perhaps a lengthy recovery period. However, the experience of having oral surgery is usually very different from that. Oral surgery is often performed in a dental office setting, under local anesthesia, with minimal recovery time. Oral Surgery can range from routine procedures such as tooth extractions and implant placement to more complex jaw realignment surgeries and emergency care for facial trauma.
Oral Surgery Procedures
Oral surgery procedures may be performed to relieve pain, treat an infection or trauma, restore function or improve a person’s appearance. Procedures and conditions treated include
- Tooth Extractions. There are a variety of reasons why you may need a tooth or teeth removed. You may have a wisdom tooth that is impacted; a diseased tooth that can’t be saved; or overcrowded teeth that need to be removed so more room can be created to facilitate proper alignment during orthodontics.
- Dental Implants. Today’s preferred method of tooth replacement is a titanium dental implant, which is placed beneath the gum line and into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The implant is then attached to a realistic-looking dental crown that is visible above the gum line and indistinguishable from a natural tooth.
- Oral Diagnosis & Biopsies. When a suspicious oral lesion is found, a biopsy is often used to detect or rule out oral cancer — a disease that is treatable if caught early. A biopsy involves removing a very small tissue sample for laboratory analysis.
- Corrective Jaw Surgery. Sometimes a person’s jaws don’t fit together properly. This can affect both jaw function and appearance.
- Snoring & Sleep Apnea. Excess tissue in the back of the throat may need to be removed in certain individuals with sleep apnea.
- TMD. When conservative remedies fail to relieve chronic jaw pain over a long period of time, surgery may be considered.
- Facial Trauma & Reconstructive Surgery. Facial injuries can affect not only a person’s ability to carry on basic life functions such as eating, but also his or her appearance. Knocked-out teeth can sometimes be re-implanted, or replaced with dental implants.
- Cleft Lip/Palate. These birth defects are among the most common, estimated to affect around one in 700-800 babies born in North America. With proper surgical treatment, the child has an excellent chance of leading a healthy, normal life.
What to expect
Before your oral surgery is performed, x-rays will often be taken to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning. A step-by-step explanation of the procedure along with your anesthesia options will be discussed, and you should feel free to ask any questions you have. Your recovery experience will depend on what procedure you are having as well as your general state of health. It’s always important to let your healthcare providers know what medications you are taking (both prescription and over-the-counter), any chronic health conditions you have, and whether you smoke. This will help ensure your safety and comfort — always the paramount concerns.
At Inspire Dental, we believe that oral surgery should be an approachable and stress-free experience. The term ""surgery"" often conjures images of extended hospital stays, general anesthesia, and daunting recovery times. However, our practice focuses on reshaping this narrative. Oral surgery, specifically within the confines of our warm and welcoming dental office, is frequently performed under local anesthesia with minimal recovery time, making it a convenient option for our valued patients.
Oral surgery procedures at Inspire Dental range from essential tooth extractions to innovative dental implants and complex jaw surgery. Our compassionate team understands that these procedures may be necessary for various reasons, including pain alleviation, infection treatment, facial trauma response, and aesthetic enhancement. Our priority is to facilitate your wellness and comfort, ensuring that you receive the individualized care you deserve.
Tooth Extractions: Compassionate Care for Pain Relief
Tooth extraction services at Inspire Dental address various needs. Many patients require tooth extractions due to impacted wisdom teeth, diseased teeth that cannot be salvaged, or overcrowding that hinders optimal alignment during orthodontics. Our skilled dental team specializes in gentle tooth extractions while providing a clear understanding of the process, ensuring our patients feel informed and at ease.
Dental Implants: The Preferred Method for Tooth Replacement
Our dental implants are at the forefront of modern tooth replacement options. The dental implant process involves a minor surgical procedure where a durable titanium post is strategically placed beneath the gum line and into the jawbone. Once this integration occurs, we attach a realistic dental crown that perfectly mimics the appearance of natural teeth. Not only do dental implants restore functionality, but they also enhance aesthetics, making them a cornerstone of our cosmetic dentistry services.
Oral Diagnosis and Biopsies: Prioritizing Early Detection
When it comes to oral health, early detection is crucial. At Inspire Dental, we perform thorough oral diagnosis procedures, including biopsies for suspicious lesions. An oral biopsy involves the careful removal of a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis to detect or rule out oral cancer. Our professional approach equips patients with the knowledge and support they need, empowering them to take proactive steps toward their health.
Jaw Surgery: Correcting Functional and Aesthetic Issues
Jaw surgery is another advanced oral surgery offered at Inspire Dental. We understand that misalignment can affect both jaw function and appearance, leading to discomfort and self-consciousness. Our team specializes in corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, which addresses these issues by repositioning the jaws. This procedure not only improves jaw alignment but also contributes to overall facial harmony.
TMD Treatment: Finding Relief for Chronic Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) can cause chronic jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty in chewing. At Inspire Dental, we offer comprehensive TMD treatment options for patients who have not found relief with conservative remedies. Our thoughtful approach to TMD ensures that individual needs are assessed first, leading to customized treatment plans that aim to alleviate discomfort and enhance function.
Sleep Apnea Solutions: Improving Quality of Life
Sleep apnea is a condition that can severely affect quality of life, often resulting from excess tissue obstructing the airway during sleep. We understand the importance of effective sleep apnea treatment and offer surgical options for patients requiring intervention. By addressing sleep apnea, we help our patients improve not only their sleeping patterns but also their overall health and wellbeing.
Emergency Dental Care: Here for You When You Need Us Most
At Inspire Dental, we are proud to offer emergency dental care, ensuring that patients have access to timely treatment when dental emergencies arise. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a damaged crown, or a facial injury, our compassionate team is ready to respond with urgency and expertise. We prioritize patient comfort and swift recovery, making us your reliable partner in dental health.
Special Needs Dentistry: Inclusive Care for Every Patient
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals with special needs, Inspire Dental is committed to providing inclusive dental care. We employ specially trained staff and adaptive techniques to create a comfortable environment. Our understanding and patient-centered approach allow us to cater effectively to diverse needs, making dental visits less stressful for our vulnerable populations.
Your Trusted Partner in Oral Health
Inspire Dental is not just a dental practice; we are a compassionate community hub dedicated to advancing oral health. With a strong commitment to patient education, we strive to keep you informed and empowered about every aspect of your treatment. Our financing options, including CareCredit, ensure that affordable dental care is accessible to all, allowing you to prioritize your dental health without financial barriers.
In summary, oral surgery at Inspire Dental is designed to enhance your well-being and confidence through personalized, state-of-the-art procedures. Our team stands ready to provide you with professional, empathetic care for all your oral surgery needs, whether it's a straightforward tooth extraction or a complex jaw surgery. Trust us to be your partner on the journey towards achieving optimal oral health and a radiant smile. Let us help you take the next step—schedule your consultation today!