Just What Is It That We Do?
Wisdom Teeth
Also know as third molars. A large percentage of people do not have enough room in their mouths to accommodate the third molars and, as a result, suffer from some of the consequences of their presence. This can take the form of infection, crowding of the other teeth, formation of cysts (fluid filled sacs) around the teeth that erodes the surrounding bone, growth of tumors derived from the cells that form the wisdom teeth. Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Some people have wisdom teeth that are fully erupted, function well and are easily kept clean. In this case there is no reason to remove them; however this is not the case for most people. It is best to have the wisdom teeth removed (if needed) in the mid to late teen years before the roots fully form and potential complications are at a minimum.
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Other Extractions & Laser Surgery
Other Extractions & Laser Surgery
This category of treatment includes extractions of non-restorable or abscessed teeth, teeth that have lost all their bone support, extractions in preparation for partial or complete dentures along with smoothing of the jawbone to accommodate the dentures, extractions to create room for the orthodontic correction of a malocclusion. Laser surgery is performed on the gums (gingival) and other soft tissue to remove, as an example, excess, unsupported tissue that inhibits the secure fit of dentures. It is also widely used for biopsies and removal of pathologic growths in the mouth from the small to the quite extensive. The value of the laser is that it is bloodless, quick, usually does not involve stitches and minimizes post operative swelling.
Oral Pathology
Oral Pathology
This category includes biopsies of tissues in the mouth that have undergone change from smoking or smokeless tobacco, removal of tumors and cysts of the bone or soft tissue and treatment of dental infections.
Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic Surgery
This is also known as surgical orthodontics. Sometimes when a patient seeks correction of their misaligned teeth, also know as "malocclusion", examination reveals that the problem is that not only are the teeth not aligned properly, but also the relationship of the upper jaw to the lower jaw is incorrect or abnormal. In these instances correction of the problem involves not only orthodontics to align the teeth within the confines of each jaw but also surgical repositioning of the upper and or lower jaw into the proper relationship. This type of surgery is done in the hospital and done entirely within the mouth to avoid scars.
Consultations
Consultations
We recommend a consultation, if possible, before most surgical procedures. This allows us to gather all necessary information regarding the procedure to be done, its extent, your health history, medications you are on and type of anesthesia needed. Quite often, if there is a preexisting health problem, we will need to consult with your family physician to determine the best and safest way to proceed with your treatment. This also gives you a chance to ask any question you might have regarding preparation for surgery, expected post operative course, medications needed and financial arrangements.
Insurance
We participate with most insurance plans including most managed care plans. We will be happy to assist you with information regarding fees, co-payments, need for written referrals, etc.
