Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket. A tooth may need to be removed if it:
- has extensive decay
- is broken or cracked
- is impacted or doesn’t have adequate room to grow into the mouth
- blocks other teeth from growing into the mouth
There are two types of tooth extraction: simple and surgical. Simple tooth extraction is performed in an office setting using special instruments. If a tooth has not “erupted” (grown properly into the mouth) or if the dentist needs to remove gum tissue or bone in order to extract the tooth, surgical extraction becomes necessary.
Surgical tooth extraction is also appropriate in cases of teeth that are difficult to see or reach, or teeth that have broken off at the gum line. Wisdom teeth often need to be surgically extracted because they can be impacted due to their position in the mouth.
Surgical tooth extraction is nothing to worry about. Anesthesia is used for complete patient comfort. After the area has healed, we can recommend the best tooth replacement option (if needed).
Dental Implants Placement
A dental implant is a popular tooth replacement option anchored by a post placed in the jawbone. This post needs to be carefully planned and surgically placed in order to serve as a solid foundation for the artificial tooth. In addition to the placement of the implant post, sometimes surgery is required to reconstruct the jawbone receiving the post, or the gum tissue must be surgically modified around the implant.
Reconstructive Surgery
Circumstances in which we would need to perform reconstructive surgery include the following:
- to correct bone or soft tissue problems after the removal of a cyst or tumor
- to restore form or function to the oral and maxillofacial area
- to reconstruct one or both of the jaws after a traumatic injury
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery repositions the teeth, jaws or both to improve the way the teeth fit together. It may be recommended to patients that have an open bite, a protruding lower jaw or a receding or “weak” chin. During the surgery, bone may be added, removed or reshaped as needed.
