Oral Surgery in Brantford
Oral surgery can be a necessity for many dental conditions, such as wisdom teeth extractions, implant placements, biopsies, or even jaw pain. If oral surgery is needed for your condition, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon. Our dentists will ensure you are in the best hands for all of your dental treatments. Thankfully, we have two talented and experienced oral surgeons right here at Clarence Street Dental!
What Do Oral Surgeons Do?
Oral surgeons are specialists with extensive training in various surgical procedures related to the mouth and jaw. They work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive care, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and appropriate treatment.
Periodontist vs Oral Surgeon
Periodontists are dental specialists who focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the gums, as well as other structures supporting the teeth. They are experts in treating various forms of gum disease.
Periodontists also specialize in the placement of dental implants, gum grafting, and cosmetic periodontal procedures to enhance the aesthetics of your smile. If you are experiencing gum problems, receding gums, or need a dental implant, a periodontist is the specialist you would likely see.
Oral surgeons, on the other hand, handle a broader range of surgical procedures related to the mouth and jaw. They are trained to perform wisdom teeth extractions and reconstructive surgeries, treat oral cancers, and address traumatic injuries to the face and jaw.
Oral Surgeons also deal with procedures involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), cleft lip and palate surgeries. They are qualified to administer various forms of anesthesia.
Endodontist vs Oral Surgeon
Endodontists and oral surgeons are both vital to dental healthcare, but they have distinct roles and specialties.
Endodontists are specialists in diagnosing and treating issues within the tooth. Specifically the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth). They are most well-known for performing root canal treatments.
Endodontists use advanced technology such as microscopes and digital imaging to ensure precision in their procedures. Their main goal is to save the natural tooth and alleviate pain associated with pulp infections or damage.
While endodontists aim to save the natural tooth, oral surgeons are often called upon when the tooth cannot be saved and needs to be removed. They’re also trained for procedures that go beyond the interior of the tooth, to the mouth or jaw.
Meet Your Oral Surgery Team – Dr. Wong’s Team
Meet Your Oral Surgery Team – Dr. Ho’s Team
Oral Surgery Services
Biopsy
A biopsy is required when a bump, lesion, rash, or ulceration is present in the mouth. While most are benign, it is always best to have it checked out to alleviate any stress or fear. Identifying the nature of oral lesions or abnormalities is crucial for proper treatment. Our team is experienced in performing biopsies to get the answers you need.
Extractions
When a tooth has suffered too much damage and can’t be repaired, an extraction is required. Our team ensures this process is as smooth and painless as possible.
Frenectomy
The frenum is the piece of tissue that attaches the lips to the gum tissues between your teeth. When the gum tissues are pulled excessively by the frenum, they need to be surgically removed. This prevents spacing between the front teeth, tongue tie (restriction of movement of the tongue), or gum recession.
Grafting
Implants need a strong and sufficient amount of bone in order to be successful. Bone grafts are performed to create the proper support for implants.
Implants
Dental implants are a sturdy and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth, as an alternative option to root canals, bridges, or dentures. An implant is an artificial tooth that has the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. It consists of the implant itself as the anchor and the crown.
Jaw Surgery
This corrective procedure aligns the upper and lower jaws when they are mismatched. This surgery helps with chewing, over-bite, under-bite and aesthetics. It also opens the airway of patients with sleep apnea to aid with snoring.
Temporomandibular Joint Surgery
Dealing with jaw and skull joint pain can be debilitating. Our team is skilled in addressing this pain associated with TMJ (or TMD). These problems can arise from trauma, stress, or other causes. If left untreated, it can lead to difficulty chewing, yawning, and talking.
Wisdom Teeth
The removal of wisdom teeth is a common procedure, especially when there is not enough space in the mouth for these additional molars. In most cases, there is only enough room for 28 teeth, versus 32 if the wisdom teeth are present.
Dental Technology for Quality Care
Here at Clarence Street Dental, Dr. Wong and Dr. Ho have access to advanced technology that allows them to provide high –quality dental care to their patients.
CBCT Scan
A CBCT scan (cone beam computed tomography) is a special type of 3D x-ray that is taken when more information is needed than can be obtained from a regular 2D x-ray. A CBCT can be taken for surgical planning of impacted teeth. It helps determine the accurate placement of implants and locates the nerves for root canal treatment.
GA Machine
A general anesthetic machine is operated by an anesthesiologist to induce sleep and prevent pain during surgical procedures. The machine generates and uses a mix of medical gasses to induce and maintain anesthesia. The machine consists of a ventilator, breathing system, suction equipment, and patient monitoring devices.
Platelet Rich Fibrin
Platelet Rich Fibrin, or PRF, is a modern advancement that is extremely beneficial in the dental world. It’s all-natural and helps promote healing and recovery after complex dental surgeries. Blood is extracted from your body and placed in the centrifuge to be “spun”, which causes it to become separated into its three components. From there, the PRF component is applied to the surgical site for healing. The benefit of using the PRF is that it is 100% from your own body, and therefore increases healing time.
What to Eat After Oral Surgery with Stitches
After undergoing oral surgery with stitches, it’s crucial to follow a specific diet to ensure proper healing and avoid disturbing the surgical site. Here are some guidelines:
Soft Foods
Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods. Examples include yogurt, pudding, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and soft fruits like bananas or peaches.
Lukewarm Temperature
Ensure that foods and beverages are neither too hot nor too cold, as extreme temperatures can irritate the surgical area.
Nutrient-Rich Foods
Choose foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals to aid in healing. Foods like smoothies (without seeds), broths, and soups (not too hot) can be both nourishing and gentle on the mouth.
Avoid Hard, Crunchy, or Sticky Foods
Foods like nuts, seeds, popcorn, chips, sticky candies, and gum can get stuck in the surgical area and disrupt stitches or cause irritation.
Hydration
Stay hydrated with plenty of water. Avoid using a straw, as the suction can interfere with the healing process and potentially dislodge the stitches.
No Alcohol or Tobacco
Alcohol can interfere with the healing process, and smoking should be avoided as it can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
Avoid Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can irritate the surgical site, so it’s best to avoid them until the area has healed.
Remember to follow any specific dietary instructions given by your oral surgeon, as individual needs can vary depending on the type of surgery and individual health considerations. It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow all post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
How to Speed up Wisdom Teeth Recovery
Speeding up recovery after wisdom teeth removal is crucial for minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of complications. One key step is to follow your oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully. This typically includes resting for the first 24 hours, avoiding strenuous activities, and applying ice packs to the cheek area to reduce swelling. It’s also important to keep your head elevated when lying down to help decrease swelling.
Another vital aspect of recovery is proper oral hygiene. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day, especially after eating, to keep the area clean and aid in healing. However, avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which can dislodge the blood clot forming in the socket. Stick to soft, nutritious foods that don’t require much chewing, and gradually reintroduce more solid foods as your comfort improves.
Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but avoiding the use of straws, can promote healing. Following these guidelines can significantly help in speeding up the recovery process after wisdom teeth removal.
Oral Surgery Frequently Asked Questions
When do wisdom teeth grow in?
Wisdom teeth typically grow in during the late teens to early twenties, but this can vary. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor their progress.
How do I find an oral surgeon near me?
When looking for an “oral surgeon near me”, consider checking online reviews, asking for referrals from your dentist, and looking at the credentials and experience of oral surgeons in your area.
How much is wisdom teeth removal?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies based on the complexity of the extraction. It’s best to get a quote from your oral surgeon for an accurate estimate.
How long after wisdom teeth can I eat normal food?
Regarding how long after wisdom teeth can you eat, it’s generally advised to start with soft foods and gradually reintroduce firmer foods over the next few days to a week, as comfort allows.
How can I speed up wisdom teeth recovery?
To speed up wisdom teeth recovery, follow your oral surgeon’s post-operative care instructions diligently, including resting, applying ice packs, taking prescribed medication, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Your Journey to Oral Surgery Care
Ready to take the next step? A consultation with our oral surgery team is your first step towards high-quality, personalized care.
During this appointment, we will:
– Review medical history and medications
– Examine your x-rays, or take new ones if necessary
– Perform an oral exam to determine the appropriate treatment
– Discuss anesthesia options
– Submit estimates for treatment
– Answer any questions you may have
Ready to get started? Contact our oral surgery team today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!