Oral Surgery | Save Your Teeth and Smile

When an orthodontist mentions “oral surgery,” many patients begin to panic. Most patients think that there is something seriously wrong with them, or that they are going to be undergoing a dangerous, painful, and expensive procedure. The truth is, however, that many oral surgery procedures are commonplace and address conditions that many patients of all ages experience. While every case is different, many of these procedures are completed on an outpatient basis, and patients can resume work and normal activities within a few days. It is also true that many orthodontists recommend that you see an oral surgeon because in some cases, the surgeon may advise us that there are other, nonsurgical treatments available. If you are apprehensive about a referral to an oral surgeon, speak with us at your next appointment.

Surgical orthodontics treat complex orthodontic cases that involve the skull, face, mouth, and jaw. To be an ideal candidate for surgical orthodontics, your jaw needs to be finished growing. When the jaw stops growing, usually between ages 16-18, braces alone may not be able to properly align all aspects of your bite. Surgery may be required to attain the perfect smile you have always wanted.

Receiving surgery varies from patient to patient. Most patients usually start with wearing braces to align their teeth. Once aligned, surgery can be scheduled. You will need to continue wearing your braces for 6-12-months after surgery to make any last-minute adjustments to your smile. Surgery is usually done in a hospital and can take 1 to several hours. Depending on your surgery and the complexity of your case, the recovery times vary. Recovery could be as little as 2-3-weeks, to as much as 12-months, or longer.

Being able to look in the mirror and smile, genuinely, at the way you feel about yourself, is one of the biggest and best benefits to orthodontic surgery. There is no better feeling than having the surgery, getting your braces off, and going through the recovery. The way you will feel post-surgery is worth the wait. But why wait? Contact us today to see if you are an ideal candidate for surgical orthodontics.

Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary to create space for proper alignment or to address issues like severe crowding, impacted teeth, or problematic tooth positioning. During an extraction, our orthodontist or oral surgeon carefully removes the affected tooth, making space for neighboring teeth to shift into proper alignment. This process can play a critical role in achieving a balanced, healthier smile.

The extraction procedure begins with numbing the area to ensure comfort. Depending on the tooth’s location and condition, the tooth may be removed in one piece or in sections to minimize impact on surrounding teeth. Post-extraction, you’ll be given specific care instructions to promote healing and reduce discomfort. Tooth extractions are typically quick and, in many cases, an essential step toward achieving the ideal smile.

Recovery Time After A Tooth Extraction

For most simple extractions, initial healing occurs within a few days, but full healing can take 1-2 weeks. More complex extractions may have a longer recovery period. Following post-care instructions, like avoiding certain foods and activities, can help speed up the healing process. If you need one or more teeth removed, you can rely on us to provide thorough, comprehensive care in a warm, nurturing environment. We understand that the process of having a tooth extracted can be daunting, and we pledge to make every attempt to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.