Wisdom teeth extraction and dental implants are two of the most common Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery procedures. Learn more about these surgeries and why they are important. Your tooth bothering you for weeks, right? If yes, we understand that now it’s getting unbearable and maybe your jaw has started to become sore lately. Under these circumstances, you might have visited a dentist. Now ask yourself, was it enough? This is a common issue among many individuals that they don’t know when they should be visiting an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Here are a few reasons why you should be getting dental surgery.

Jaw Joint Issues

The temporomandibular joint connects your skull to the jaw. It is that small hinge that is located in front of your ears. It can cause severe headaches and stiffness in the jaw. This issue can be solved through medication, but if the problem is severe, you might need a surgery

Overbite/Underbite

If your teeth or jaw are not properly aligned, there is a chance that your dentist might recommend you for orthognathic surgery. This happens with people with excessive underbites or overbites, trouble swallowing or chewing, sleep apnea or maybe a birth defect.

Sleeping or Breathing issues

This covers issues such as sleep apnea and snoring. This is a condition that causes problems during sleep and can sometimes stop breathing. Under normal situations, CPAP machine or any other equipment that can open the airway. However, you might need to go to a surgeon in case of a severe case.

Things you should do before getting an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Consult it with your Dentist

If you are having issues with your teeth, ask your dentist if you need surgery. If a dentist is not available and it’s an emergency, head over to the clinic rather than going to the ER. Try to avoid surgery. Sometimes the problem is manageable with medication. If your dentist thinks that the oral problems are not manageable by him, then you’ll be recommended for the surgery.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

If you have been recommended by a dentist for surgery, chances are he’ll be talking about the dentistry specialty related to jaws and face. This surgery takes place for treating injuries and diseases around the mouth area. Before getting Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, make sure that the surgeon has the right education and training required to carry out the process. Do some research about the individual carrying out the surgery. He or she must have 4 years of surgeon experience along with different specialties.

For patients who are missing their natural teeth, dental implants can be a wonderful option that fills and enhances your smile. Implants can easily last for decades because of the fact that they are made of titanium that is embedded and fused with the jawbone. The implant itself becomes the foundation or abutment for dental restorations, like bridges, single crowns or even full overdentures. The implant procedure is easy, quick and can be done effortlessly in our office at your own convenience.

Who is a Good Candidate for Implants?

Most people are good candidates for dental implants. However, you need to have enough solid, healthy bone in the area where the implant is going to be placed. If you have areas of bone loss, it’s essential that a bone grafting be done prior to any implant being surgically inserted into the jaw. If the implant is placed in an area with bone loss, it will not be able to heal properly and will be loose or even crack under normal pressure. However, the vast majority of our patients who would like to come in for implants can and should consider this restorative option. With the use of x-rays, we can determine if implants are the right choice for you.

What happens during the Implant Procedure?

The implant procedure will begin by creating an incision through the gums and then inserting the titanium implant deep into the jawbone. The implant is then given a few months to heal, which involves it fusing with the surrounding bone. Once the implant has healed fully, a crown, bridge or entire overdenture can be made to fit over the top of it. While the implant itself is considered permanent, the restoration that has been placed on top of it will need to be replaced at regular intervals or as it shows signs of wear. Your new implant is going to be a solid part of your smile and provide you with the appearance that you’ve always wanted to have.

If you’d like to learn about dental implants and how they can benefit your smile, call us today to speak with one of our skilled team members.