Oral Surgery Blog for Patients

A smiling older man with glasses

Do I need to replace my back molars?

For some people, the number one concern when losing a tooth is how the gap in their smile will affect their overall appearance. When the missing tooth is a molar in the back of their mouth, they think, “Why do I need to replace this tooth if nobody can see it?” But negative side effects […]

A lower arch generated with 3D imaging

The power of 3D imaging for improving oral surgery

The integration of three-dimensional imaging systems into oral and maxillofacial surgery practices has elevated patient care. With the ability to diagnose oral health conditions with greater accuracy than ever before, oral surgeons can now more easily identify issues and create precise surgical plans. What is a CBCT digital imaging system? CBCT, which stands for cone […]

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Five signs you have a cracked tooth

A cracked or chipped tooth should always be fixed as soon as possible; otherwise, you risk infection or causing additional damage to the tooth. Here are five symptoms to look out for if you suspect you might have a cracked tooth. 1. Discomfort when eating The most common sign of a cracked tooth is consistent […]

A doctor reviewing their extraction case together

Reasons for tooth extraction

Losing a tooth is a very common occurrence in the United States. In fact, approximately 50% of all Americans are missing at least one tooth. Here are the most common reasons why extraction may be necessary: Substantial Decay: A severely decayed tooth that has been left untreated may not have sufficient remaining tooth structure to […]

A dental implant patient resting and reading after surgery

How to speed healing following implant surgery

Advancements in dental implant diagnostics and placement have made recovery from surgery faster, easier, and more comfortable than ever. Most patients experience very little downtime. Follow these quick healing tips to reduce discomfort and be back to your normal self as soon as possible. Control bleeding with gauze and rest Bleeding is normal and expected […]

A smiling young woman who may need a dental implants

Can young adults get dental implants?

Young adults, particularly those in their early twenties, can be candidates for dental implants. Whether it be from a sports incident, an accident, or a tooth extraction, patients of all ages can find themselves missing a tooth. We understand the urgency of replacing a missing tooth. In addition to interfering with chewing functionality, a missing […]

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Implants are a good long-term investment

Implants are the preferred tooth replacement option for many patients missing one or more teeth. They are permanent, restore biting and chewing functionality, and look just like your natural teeth. While lower cost treatments are available, the long-term benefits of dental implants make them a smart investment for a lifetime of oral health. Built to […]

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Four reasons to choose wisdom teeth extraction

One of the most common questions patients ask their oral surgeon is, “Do wisdom teeth have to be removed?” While the answer in many cases is “absolutely,” for some patients the decision to move forward is a choice. So, if wisdom teeth extraction can sometimes be optional, why do 85% of people have them removed? […]

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Implant-supported bridges

An implant-supported bridge is a permanent tooth replacement solution for patients missing several teeth in a row. How a traditional bridge works A dental bridge is made of three or more artificial crowns used to replace one or more teeth in your mouth. To install a traditional bridge, healthy teeth are required on both sides […]

Oral surgeon reviewing implant placement case with patient

How planning for dental implant placement works

The proper placement of dental implants is an important part of ensuring long-term treatment success and a new smile for years to come. Here is a short guide outlining the dental implant placement planning process. Determining candidacy Before an implant placement strategy can be developed, the patient must first undergo an initial evaluation to find […]