Dental Implants, Extractions & Surgeries

Overview:

Dental implant surgery is a procedure designed to replace missing teeth using artificial roots and crowns. It involves placing titanium posts (implants) into the jawbone, which provide a stable foundation for attaching replacement teeth. This method is a popular option for restoring both function and appearance, especially when traditional dentures or bridges are not suitable.

Indications for Dental Implants:

• Single Tooth Replacement: To replace one missing tooth without affecting adjacent teeth.
• Multiple Tooth Replacement: To replace several missing teeth using a series of implants.
• Full Arch Replacement: To replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, often with implant-supported dentures.

Procedure:

• Initial Consultation: The dentist performs an examination, including X-rays or 3D imaging, to evaluate bone density and structure, and determines implant suitability.
• Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia, the dentist or oral surgeon places the titanium implant into the jawbone through a small gum incision.
• Healing Period: A healing period of several months is needed, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone to ensure stability.
• Abutment Placement: Once healing is complete, a minor procedure attaches the abutment, a connecting piece to the implant, followed by a brief period for gum adjustment.
• Crown Placement: A custom-made crown is then attached to the abutment, designed to match the surrounding natural teeth in shape, color, and function.

Overview:

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained in all aspects of anesthesia administration. In-office anesthesia involves administering anesthetic agents to manage pain and discomfort during medical or dental procedures.

Benefits:

• Pain Management: Provides effective relief during procedures, enhancing patient comfort.
• Reduced Anxiety: Sedation options help alleviate fear and anxiety related to medical or dental treatments.
• Improved Procedure Tolerance: Enables patients to endure longer or more complex procedures with minimal discomfort.
• Faster Recovery: Local and sedation anesthesia generally allow for quicker recovery and less downtime compared to general anesthesia.

Procedure:

• Anesthetic Administration: Anesthesia may be administered through injection, oral medication, or inhalation, depending on the type used. The provider ensures the patient is properly numb or sedated before starting the procedure.
• Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, the provider monitors the patient’s vital signs and comfort to ensure safety and makes any necessary adjustments to the anesthesia.

Overview:

Wisdom teeth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removing the third set of molars, known as wisdom teeth. These teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, at the back of the mouth.

Symptoms Indicating Extraction:

• Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain in the back of the mouth or jaw.
• Swelling: Swelling around the gums or jaw.
• Redness or Bleeding: Redness or bleeding in the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth.
• Difficulty Opening Mouth: Limited ability to open the mouth or difficulty chewing.
• Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Foul odor or taste resulting from infection or decay.

Procedure:

The wisdom teeth extraction procedure generally involves these steps:

• Consultation and Imaging: The dentist or oral surgeon will conduct an examination and may take X-rays to evaluate the position and condition of the wisdom teeth.
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is usually administered to numb the area. For more complex cases or patients with dental anxiety, sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
• Extraction: The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue, if necessary, remove the tooth or teeth, and clean the extraction site.