How to Know When You Should Go See an Oral Surgeon

Venture Creative on May 31, 2019

How to Know When You Should Go See an Oral Surgeon

You probably know friends and family who have visited an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, but how do you know when you should make a visit? You’re certainly not alone when it comes to this question. Many people wonder why they should visit an oral surgeon versus a general dentist. Let’s talk about the potential reasons that you should visit an oral surgeon.

 

Impacted Wisdom Tooth Removal

Oral surgeons specialize in the treatment of the face and jaw. In many cases, wisdom teeth can become impacted and cause severe pain and often infection. In these situations, a general dentist will often refer a patient to see an oral surgeon. Oral and Facial Surgery Institute’s very own Dr. Shawn B. Davis specializes in the treatment of the jaw so that you can rest assured that you will be receiving the best treatment possible.

 

Dental implants

Dental implants are a great option for those who suffer from severe tooth decay or bone loss. During this type of procedure, posts are placed in the tooth sockets and artificial teeth are screwed into the posts. This allows patients to have a full set of permanent teeth in a very short amount of time. If your dentist recommends dental implants, you’ll want to be sure to see an oral surgeon for this procedure.

 

Reconstructive/Jaw surgery

Oral surgeons have extensive training in diagnosing and treating problems of the jaw. There are many reasons for reconstructive/jaw surgery. Some of these reasons may be for aesthetic purposes, however, on many occasions, these surgeries can help to relieve pain.

 

Anesthesia

Many patients request the usage of anesthesia for their dental/oral treatments to help ease the procedure. Oral surgeons specialize in anesthesia and frequently use it in the treatment of their patients. If you prefer to be sedated during your operation you may want to consider visiting an oral surgeon.

 

Other Possible Reasons To Visit an Oral Surgeon:

Other extractions

Endodontic surgery

Facial aesthetic surgery

Facial trauma

Cleft lip/palate

TMJ/TMD and facial pain

Oral cancer

 

If you’re unsure if oral surgery is necessary, talk with your dentist or give us a call at 435-628-1100!

What is the Difference Between an Oral Surgeon and a Dentist?

Venture Creative on May 24, 2019

What is the Difference Between an Oral Surgeon and a Dentist?

You’re at the dentist’s office, waiting to hear what to do about your wisdom teeth, and you hear your dentist tell you they’re going to refer you to an oral surgeon… -wait what now? Who is this oral surgeon and why am I being referred? Oral and facial surgeons are uniquely trained to diagnose and operate to treat a number of conditions of the bone, skin and muscle of the face, mouth and jaw.

You might be thinking, wait… my dentist has done surgery on me before, does that make him or her an oral surgeon? Well, while dentists can perform minor oral surgeries, they are not oral surgeons.

Your dentist is your go-to for care of your mouth and teeth. You see them regularly for a general oral exam. Dentists can treat cavities, gum disease, root canals, fillings, crowns, and more, including basic tooth extractions and simple surgeries. Often designated by a suffix of DDS (doctor of dental surgery) or DMD (doctor of dental medicine), they receive unique training in dental school. When more specialized oral or maxillofacial (relating to the jaws and face) care is needed, your dentist will refer you to a specialist like Dr. Davis.

OFSI’s very own Dr. Shawn B. Davis serves to provide the highest quality of care and make a difference in the lives of their Southern Utah, Northern Arizona, and Nevada patients.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Davis must attend four years of dental school before continuing on to become surgically trained in a hospital-based residency program for a minimum of four years. Oral surgeons are trained in anesthesia and sedation methods, ensuring your surgery goes smoothly.

Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon has many years of education and hands-on training to provide treatment for a wide range of conditions, including, but not limited to:

  • Dental implant surgery
  • Wisdom teeth extraction
  • Other extractions
  • Endodontic surgery
  • Facial aesthetic surgery
  • Facial trauma
  • Cleft lip/palate
  • TMJ/TMD and facial pain
  • Oral cancer

So whether it’s wisdom teeth extraction, or teeth in a day, our team is dedicated to ensuring your every experience at the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute is comfortable, communicative, and convenient. For us, there is no better feeling in the world than making a difference in our patients’ lives. Let us make a difference in yours—schedule an appointment at our oral surgery office in St. George, Utah today!

How to Recover From Oral Surgery

Venture Creative on May 8, 2019

Oral surgery, the perfect excuse for taking it easy because in reality you really do have to take it easy for the sake of your recovery. The first 24 hours following your surgery will matter the most for your recovery so rest, rest, rest. How else can you help yourself on your way to recovery? The following are three of our top tips.

Stock up on soft foods

Grab your favorite ice cream flavor (as long as it doesn’t have any chunks or crunch to it) and hunker down with your favorite TV show for a little binge watching.

Other soft foods we recommend:

  • Smoothies (minus the straw)
  • Jello
  • Pudding
  • Yogurt
  • Applesauce
  • Cottage Cheese
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Soups (blended or broths)

Keep your swelling down

Don’t forget to keep your head elevated during your TV show marathon. Have those cold compresses close on hand (try 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off rotation) so you can enjoy the series’ drama and not create your own.

Bonus: The ice cream will help with your swelling!

Recruit a family member or friend

Ice cream and binge-watching is always better with a friend, right? We bet it won’t take too much convincing for someone to join you. You buy the ice cream beforehand, they drive you home from your appointment and help you with the little things. Sounds like a pretty good deal to us.

Have more questions about recovery? Don’t hesitate to ask. We will also cover preparation and recovery in your consultation. Call (435) 628-1100 today to book!

What is TMJ/TMD?

Venture Creative on April 30, 2019

You may have heard of TMD or TMJ, but do you know what they are and what the difference is?

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)

Millions of Americans suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as recurring headaches. In some cases, this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD.

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jawbone to your skull. These joints get a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.

Symptoms of TMD include:

  • Pain in the jaw area
  • Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears
  • Frequent headaches or neck aches
  • Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
  • Swelling on the sides of the face
  • Muscle spasms in the jaw area
  • A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
  • Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth

Treating TMD

TMD can be treated many ways, depending on your diagnosis. Non-surgical options include short-term, non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and muscle relaxation, bite plate or splint therapy, and even stress management counseling.

If non-surgical treatment is unsuccessful or there is clear joint damage, oral surgery may be necessary. The surgical treatment of TMD can involve either arthroscopy or direct jaw surgery, depending on the extent of the damage.

Prevention is Always the Best Medicine

There are a few simple steps you can take at home or work to prevent TMD from becoming more severe, or to prevent it from occurring in the first place:

  • Relax your face — remember the rule: “Lips together, teeth apart”
  • Avoid grinding your teeth
  • Avoid constant gum chewing
  • Don’t cradle the phone receiver between your head and shoulder — either use a headset or hold the receiver in your hand
  • Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth
  • Do not sit with your chin resting on your hand
  • Practice good posture — keep your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared

We understand it’s not always preventable, that’s why we’re here. Call us today to schedule your consult.

 

Teeth Extraction Survival Guide (What to Expect)

Venture Creative on April 2, 2019

There are times when it is necessary to remove a tooth. Sometimes a baby tooth has misshapen or long roots that prevent it from falling out as it should, and the tooth must be removed to make way for the permanent tooth to erupt. At other times, a tooth may have so much decay that it puts the surrounding teeth and jaw at risk of decay, so your doctor may recommend removal and replacement with a bridge or implant. Infection, orthodontic correction, or problems with a wisdom tooth can also require removal of a tooth.

When it is determined that a tooth needs to be removed, your dentist may extract the tooth during a regular checkup or may schedule another visit for this procedure. The root of each tooth is encased within your jawbone in a “tooth socket,” and your tooth is held in that socket by a ligament. In order to extract a tooth, your dentist must expand the socket and separate the tooth from the ligament holding it in place. While this procedure is typically very quick, it is important to share with your doctor any concerns or preferences for sedation.

Once a tooth has been removed, neighboring teeth may shift, causing problems with chewing or with your jaw joint function. To avoid these complications, your dentist may recommend that you replace the extracted tooth, especially a front tooth replacement.

Now that you know a little about what to expect, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Pre-Surgery

  • Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for eight hours prior to your appointment. If you take medications, you should take them with a small sip of water no later than three hours prior to your appointment.
  • A responsible adult must accompany you to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive you home.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up past the elbow.
  • Remove contact lenses, dental prosthetics (dentures), and jewelry.
  • Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
  • Fill any prescription pain medications and antibiotics before the day of your surgery.
  • If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, or stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office.

Post-Surgery

  • Never drive an automobile or operate dangerous machinery on the same day as your surgery or procedure.
  • Avoid any heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity for several days after your surgery.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, but do not suck on a straw, because this can dislodge a clot and lead to bleeding.

We are in the business of giving smiles. Call us today to get your smile feeling right again!

 

Comparing Bridges with Dental Implants

Venture Creative on March 4, 2019

Have you or are you considering a bridge or dental implant? We’ve covered dental implants before but here’s a comparison of the two to help you know what would be best for you. First things first, what are bridges? Bridges get their name because they bridge the gap caused by a missing tooth. Why a dental implant over a bridge? How do bridges look?

Dental Bridges

According to Health Line, “A dental bridge is a false tooth (called a pontic) that is held in place by the abutment teeth on either side of the gap. Although pontics can be made from a variety of materials such as gold, typically they’re made from porcelain to aesthetically blend in with your natural teeth.”

Dental Implants

What about an implant? An implant is a synthetic tooth root in the shape of a post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. The “root” is usually made of titanium: the same material used in many replacement hips and knees, and a metal that is well-suited to pairing with human bone. A replacement tooth is then fixed to the post. The tooth can be either permanently attached or removable. Permanent teeth are more stable and feel more like natural teeth.

Why Dental Implants Instead of a Bridge?

Why a dental implant over a bridge? Conventional bridges are not fixed to the bone and can therefore be unstable. This can make it difficult to eat or smile with confidence. Dental implants not only look more natural, but feel and act more like normal teeth, with a stronger biting force. And because they don’t directly rely on neighboring teeth for support, implants don’t compromise the health of your natural teeth. In fact, bridges are only expected to last seven to ten years, whereas implants will typically last a lifetime.

Have more questions about what is best for you? Need more replacements than just a few? Contact us today to ask any questions you may have and set up a consultation to find out if dental implants or even Teeth-In-A-Day are right for you.

 

Common Myths About Dental Implants

Venture Creative on March 4, 2019

Common Myths About Dental Implants

People are living longer than ever, and while regular brushing, flossing, and checkups allow many of us to maintain our natural smiles for a lifetime, sometimes our teeth just can’t keep up. If you’ve lost a tooth (or a few teeth) due to injury or disease, dental implants can rejuvenate both your smile and your oral health.

An implant is a synthetic tooth root in the shape of a post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. The “root” is usually made of titanium: the same material used in many replacement hips and knees, and a metal that is well-suited to pairing with human bone. A replacement tooth is then fixed to the post. The tooth can be either permanently attached or removable. Permanent teeth are more stable and feel more like natural teeth.

There are a few popular myths surrounding dental implants that may make some people uneasy about the procedure. We’re here to help you feel confident about getting your smile back!

Dental Implants Don’t Look Like Your Natural Teeth

Dental implants not only look more natural but feel and act more like normal teeth, with a stronger biting force. And because they don’t directly rely on neighboring teeth for support, implants don’t compromise the health of your natural teeth.

Dental Implants Require Special Care

Consider your replacement teeth to be the same as natural teeth. They require the same daily brushing and flossing, and the same amount of regular checkups. Just like your natural teeth, the better you take care of your replacements, the longer they will last.

Dental Implant Surgery Is Painful

One of our main goals is to provide you with a surgical experience that is as comfortable as it is effective. That’s why we offer several methods of sedation. Our oral surgeons will work with you to decide on a personalized sedation plan that will give you the care you need while ensuring your comfort and safety every step of the way.

Dental Implants Take Forever to Heal

Healing time is actually short. We provide you with an outline for recovery so you’re on your way to a speedy recovery.

Dental Implants Aren’t Worth the Price

With a nearly 100% success rate, this permanent option is here to stay. Say “goodbye” to those temporary options that you had to replace and adjust, like dentures, bridges and crowns. Dental implants are here to provide you with a long-lasting smile. If you take good care of them, implants have the potential to last longer than 18 years! We say that’s worth it.

Keep in mind the ideal candidate for dental implants is a non-smoker who has good oral health, including a sufficient amount of bone in the jaw, and healthy gums with no sign of gum disease.

Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to call! We would be happy to schedule a consultation for you.

 

 

5 Perks of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Venture Creative on March 4, 2019

Wisdom teeth are molars found in the very back of your mouth. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The most common type of impacted wisdom tooth removal is “mesial,” which means the tooth is angled forward toward the front of your mouth. Now that doesn’t sound very fun, right? Although it may not sound fun, we’re here to share 5 perks of having your wisdom teeth removed.

Avoid Pain

When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it will need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and even gum disease.

Make Extraction Easy

Each patient’s situation is unique. We will usually take a panoramic X-ray to determine whether your wisdom teeth will need to be removed. If we recommend the removal of your wisdom teeth, it is best to have them removed sooner rather than later.

Have a Short Recovery Time

Wisdom teeth are typically removed during the late teens or early twenties because there is a greater chance that the roots have not fully formed and the bone surrounding the teeth is less dense. These two factors can make wisdom tooth extraction easier, as well as the recovery time much shorter.

Local Anesthetic

To remove a wisdom tooth, we first need to numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. We can use additional medication, such as nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, to sedate you safely during the extraction if you are feeling nervous about the procedure.

Ice Cream

Once your wisdom teeth have been extracted, the healing process and ice cream eating begins.

Healing time varies, depending on the degree of difficulty related to the extraction. We will let you know what to expect and provide instructions for a comfortable, efficient healing process.

 

Interesting Facts About Dental Implants

Venture Creative on March 4, 2019

Dental Implants. You’ve heard of them, perhaps you’ve even considered them for yourself or someone close to you, but do you really know about them? We have a handful of interesting facts you may not know about dental implants.

Anyone can get them

That’s right. Anyone. No matter your age, you’re eligible for a new smile. All you’ll need is a sign off from your Oral Surgeon saying your jaw is ready to take on the new smile. If they have any concerns, there are options to prep your jaw so you can be back on your way to a new set of pearly whites.

You wouldn’t be alone

The number of people who have implants is growing by 500,000 each year according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Join the 3 million people in the United States who already have implants.

Your implants, your secret

Unless you told someone you have implants, they wouldn’t know because implants look just like real teeth! Implants even fuse with your bone.

It only takes one day

With our Teeth-In-A-Day service you can come in and turn that frown upside down with a whole new set of teeth in simply one day. Check out our Teeth In A Day, A Second Chance At a First Impression post to learn more about the procedure.

Long-lasting

With a nearly 100% success rate, this permanent option is here to stay. Forget options you had to replace and adjust, like dentures, bridges and crowns. Dental implants are here and ready to keep your smile long-lasting. If you take special care of them, they have the potential to last longer than 18 years!

Now that you’ve heard our five interesting facts about dental implants, don’t hesitate to call with any questions you may have. Let us help you smile.

Do I Need to Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Venture Creative on March 1, 2019

Wisdom teeth are molars found in the very back of your mouth. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The most common type of impacted wisdom tooth removal is “mesial,” which means the tooth is angled forward toward the front of your mouth.

When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it will need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and even gum disease.

Each patient’s situation is unique. Our doctors will usually take a panoramic X-ray to determine whether your wisdom teeth will need to be removed. If they recommend the removal of your wisdom teeth, it is best to have them removed sooner rather than later.

Wisdom teeth are typically removed during the late teens or early twenties because there is a greater chance that the roots have not fully formed and the bone surrounding the teeth is less dense. These two factors can make wisdom tooth extraction easier, as well as the recovery time much shorter.

To remove a wisdom tooth, the doctor first needs to numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. They use additional medication, such as nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, to sedate you safely during the extraction, if you are feeling nervous about the procedure.

Since the impacted wisdom tooth may still be under the gums and embedded in your jaw bone, the doctor will need to remove a portion of the covering bone to extract the tooth. To minimize the amount of bone removed with the tooth, your wisdom tooth may be “sectioned” (cut into pieces) so each piece can be removed through a small opening in the bone.

Once your wisdom teeth have been extracted, the healing process begins. Healing time varies, depending on the degree of difficulty related to the extraction. Our doctors will let you know what to expect and provide instructions for a comfortable, efficient healing process.

 

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