wisdom teeth removal

Removing impacted wisdom teeth is a little more involved compared to a simple tooth extraction for an erupted tooth. Taking care of yourself after surgery is very important. Our team at North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery will discuss how to care for your mouth at home after your wisdom tooth removal, and give you post-operative care tips to keep you feeling great.

What To Expect After My Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Bleeding and Swelling

Many wonder why they feel nauseous after their wisdom tooth removal surgery, and do not know what to expect. After your surgery you may experience some bleeding or oozing and this is very common. We recommend you rinse gently or wipe the blood away. You can use gauze pads provided to help stop the bleeding. You may also experience some swelling around the cheeks or area where the teeth were removed. Ice can be used to help minimize swelling, and should subside after a few days.

Pain and Diet

After your wisdom tooth removal procedure, you may experience some pain. Patients may be prescribed pain medication or antibiotics after their surgery, or we may recommend over the counter pain medication. The pain should subside after a few days, but if you have any persistent pain that does not go away, we recommend calling our office right away.

Following a soft food diet is recommended after wisdom tooth removal while your mouth is healing. Patients should avoid straws and any sucking motions during recovery. Patients should eat balanced meals and stay hydrated.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common after wisdom tooth removal. In some cases, patients feel nauseous after anesthesia. To help your nausea you can sip coke or ginger ale to help the feeling subside. Typically, nausea should go away after 4-6 hours. If your nausea does not go away, we recommend calling our office. In some cases, patients can feel nauseous 2-4 days after their surgery. This is due to pain medication, or can be caused by dehydration.

What Are Other Complications?

Most patients recover easily, but if you experience any fever or feel dizzy, we encourage you to contact our office right away. Patients may feel stiff after their procedure or have a sore throat. This should also subside, but if these symptoms do not go away, we recommend contacting our office.

Taking Care of your teeth after surgery is important. Patients should still brush and floss gently after having their wisdom teeth removed. If you experience any prolonged pain, this should be addressed right away, and we recommend calling our office.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about wisdom tooth removal and the recovery process, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery. Our highly trained staff is happy to answer any questions or concerns you have, and we welcome you to schedule an appointment. If you think you may need wisdom tooth removal the first step is scheduling a consultation with us. Our doctors will complete a thorough exam, and create a customized treatment plan. Your oral health is our priority, and we always provide the very best care for all of our patients.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

impacted tooth

An impacted tooth is when you have a tooth that is blocked from breaking through the gum. In some cases, teeth are partially impacted, but can still cause issues. Impacted teeth are usually found during your regular exam in the dentist office on an x-ray. Impacted teeth are usually because your mouth does not have the proper space for the tooth, or are caused from genetics.

At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we provide the highest level of care, and our exams can identify impacted teeth, and provide the proper treatment to avoid complications in the future.

Symptoms of an Impacted Tooth

• Bad breath
• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Pain or difficulty when you open your mouth
• Pain during chewing or biting

What Teeth Are Typically Impacted?

Wisdom teeth are the most common teeth that are typically impacted. They are the last teeth to erupt, and typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. In some cases, the jaw and mouth are just too small to allow the wisdom teeth to come in. Wisdom teeth are usually removed if they are causing a problem, or if they are impacted because wisdom teeth are not needed.

In addition to wisdom teeth, the canines are another tooth that is typically impacted. These are the upper eye teeth in the mouth. Canines play an important role in our mouths, and treatment is typically recommended to help these teeth erupt properly.

How Are Impacted Teeth Treated?

Waiting

Impacted teeth may not cause any symptoms or pain, and in some cases waiting is the appropriate approach. Regular visits to the office are required to keep a close eye on the impacted tooth to ensure no problems develop.

Oral Surgery

If the patient is experiencing any symptoms or pain, extraction surgery may be recommended. This is when the impacted tooth is extracted surgically. Tooth extraction surgery is an outpatient procedure, and usually takes between 40-60 minutes. Local anesthesia is used to keep you pain free and comfortable. The recovery can take between 7-10 days, and patients can return to their normal routine a few days after surgery.

When the canine teeth are impacted instead of removing the teeth, doctors can install chains, or other orthodontic appliances to help the teeth erupt into place. If there are teeth blocking the canines, tooth extraction may also be necessary. In rare cases, if the tooth can not erupt, the impacted tooth is removed, and a dental bridge or implant can be used to replace the tooth.

If impacted teeth are not treated properly problems may develop including decay, infection, crowding, or absorption of bone. If you think you have symptoms of an impacted tooth, or are due for your regular exam, we encourage you to contact our office.

Ready To Find Out More About Impacted Teeth?

If you think you may have an issue, or are due for your regular exam, contact our oral surgeon in North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery. Treating impacted teeth is important to help prevent infection or damage to surrounding teeth. Attending your regular visits to our office can help identify impacted teeth early, and get in front of any issues before they develop. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery, and always treat patients with the highest level of care. We want you to know you are in good hands when you visit our office, and our staff will work to ensure your experience is positive.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

operation facet gloves teeth grind dentist health

Oral pathology is the identification process of certain diseases or disorders of the mouth or jaw. Thorough examination and accuracy in diagnosis are extremely important to ensure the patient is treated properly. Our surgeons have years of experience in oral pathology and treating disorders. Our detailed examination process allows our team to determine the cause of an issue, and provide the proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Procedures Is PRF Commonly Used?

  • Bone grafting to prepare for dental implants
  • Sinus Lift
  • Ridge augmentation
  • Cleft lip or cleft palate
  • Removal of teeth or cysts
  • Sinus cavity repair
  • Mouth Repair

What Are the Advantages of PRF?

  • Promotes faster healing and increases tissue regeneration.
  • PRF is a by-product of our own blood and is safe to use.
  • PRF is convenient, and can be generated during a surgical procedure quickly and efficiently.
  • PRF is cost effective and can be done right at the doctor’s office.
  • PRF is easy to use and can be applied quickly.

How Does the PRF Process Work?

When you visit our office for a surgical procedure, we begin by taking a small amount of your own blood using an IV. The blood is placed into a centrifuge machine and spun down. In about 15 minutes PRF is formed, and is ready to be used during your surgery.

Interested in Finding Out More About Platelet Rich Fibrin?

If you are interested in finding out more about PRF, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery and using PRF. We always provide quality dental care, and make your oral health a priority. At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we use state of the art technology and equipment, and bring our patients the latest techniques in the dental industry. We provide a calm and relaxing environment, and welcome you to join our dental family.

To schedule an oral consultation with us, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

oral surgery

When you have oral surgery, the recovery is important to ensure you heal properly. During the healing process, it is important to eat the right foods. If you are well prepared at home your recovery will go smooth. We recommend patients plan ahead and purchase soft food items prior to their surgery, so they have choices ready to go when they return home from their procedure.

At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, our team will discuss what to eat and what to expect during the recovery period. This allows our patients to ask questions, and ensures they are prepared for the healing process. We provide a detailed list of recovery tips and food items patients should have on hand at home during their recovery.

What Are Examples of Oral Surgery Procedures that Require Special Foods Afterwards?

• Dental Implants
• Sinus Lift
• Bone Grafting
• Ridge Augmentation
• Wisdom Teeth
• Impacted Canines
• Jaw Surgery
• Teeth-in-a-Day

What Are Examples of Oral Surgery Procedures that Require Special Foods Afterwards?

• Soups
• Juices
• Scrambled Eggs
• Jell-O
• Pudding
• Popsicles
• Applesauce
• Ice cream
• Smoothies
• Oatmeal
• Mashed Potatoes
• Rice
• Pasta
• Fish
• Soft Fruit

What Foods Should I Avoid After Surgery?

• Hard or sticky foods
• Chewy foods
• Spicy Foods
• Alcoholic beverages

On the day of your surgery, we recommend only drinking clear fluids. Patients can gradually move towards soft foods as they heal. It is important to make sure you eat during recovery to promote proper healing. Drinking out of a straw should be avoided, as this can disrupt the surgery area. To optimize healing, patients can increase their protein intake to help the healing process. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous physical activity. Patients can resume brushing and flossing, but should be careful around the surgery area. Keeping up with oral hygiene and keeping the area clean is important.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about oral surgery and the recovery process, we encourage you to contact our oral surgeon in North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery, and always provide the highest level of care to all of our patients. We provide a calm and welcoming environment, and use state of the art technology to make your experience exceptional. When you choose an oral surgeon, you want to know you are in good hands, and at North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we provide quality dental care that you can trust.

To schedule your appointment contact us and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Root Canal

Oral pathology is the identification process of certain diseases or disorders of the mouth or jaw. Thorough examination and accuracy in diagnosis are extremely important to ensure the patient is treated properly. Our surgeons have years of experience in oral pathology and treating disorders. Our detailed examination process allows our team to determine the cause of an issue, and provide the proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Are Examples of Common Oral Problems?

  • Misaligned jaw
  • Cleft lip or cleft palate
  • Periodontal disease
  • Oral cancer
  • Oral ulcers
  • Infections
  • Prolonged pain
  • Cavities
  • Tooth Loss

Why Is Oral Pathology Important?

Finding out the true cause of your problem is very important. This allows our team to treat you properly. If we know what is causing the problem, we can treat the issue quickly. Our team will look at not only the physical symptoms you are experiencing, but your background and any existing medical conditions you may have. Oral health and your overall health are directly connected, and oral pathology evaluates the entire picture to provide the proper diagnosis.

How Can I Protect My Oral Health?

Keeping your teeth and mouth healthy can avoid problems and multiple trips to the dental office. Following good oral hygiene habits at home is essential to keeping your teeth and mouth feeling great. Make sure to brush and floss each day, and attend your regular dental visits twice a year. Stick to a healthy diet, and avoid foods or drinks that contain high levels of sugar. Stay hydrated and make sure to get proper sleep. Your overall health directly affects your oral health, and you can protect your oral health with good hygiene and lifestyle habits.

Interested in Finding Out More About Oral Pathology?

If you are interested in finding out more about oral pathology, or have a concern you would like to discuss, please contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery. Your oral health is our priority, and we address issues promptly to help you get on the road to recovery. Come experience quality dentistry at North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and join our dental family.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Oral Surgery

Dental surgery is needed for many reasons such as a smile makeover, or to correct an injury. Other dental surgery may be a simple extraction such as wisdom teeth removal. Dental surgery allows doctors to correct conditions or to improve a patient’s smile. Typically, dental surgery is outpatient, and your dentist may have referred you to an oral surgeon nearby.

At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery , we focus on prevention and practicing good oral hygiene habits to keep our teeth and mouth healthy. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery, and always put our patient’s health first. Many people need oral surgery at some point in their life, and finding a good oral surgeon you can trust is important.

What Are the Common Types of Dental Surgery?

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular restorative option for patients seeking to correct their smile. Implants typically involve multiple appointments in our office. Dental implants are durable, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly.

During the implant process the post acts like an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jawbone. A healing process is needed to allow the implant to fuse to the jawbone, and create a sturdy and stable base for the crown. After the healing process is complete, the patient returns to our office to have the crown affixed securely on top of the implant.

Crowns are custom made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth. Implants restore the function of our teeth and look natural. If a patient does not have enough bone present in the jaw to support dental implants, bone grafting can be done. This is an additional step that requires a separate healing process before your implants can be placed.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canals involve cleaning out the infected or inflamed pulp area of a tooth. Root canals can save a tooth and restore its functionality. This procedure can eliminate pain, and prevent future bacteria from entering the area. Root canals are extremely common, and can prevent the patient from requiring tooth extraction.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, and in some cases, they can be impacted. Often times wisdom teeth cause crowding, and if not removed can cause damage to the other adult teeth around them. To avoid issues in the future, wisdom teeth are extracted. Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine surgery, and anesthesia is used to keep the patient calm and comfortable. Once the teeth are removed the area is stitched, and patients can begin the healing process.

Cosmetic Surgery

If a patient is unhappy with their appearance, or are ready to rejuvenate their smile, cosmetic surgery is an option. Cosmetic surgery involves multiple procedures that are combined to improve a patient’s smile. Common cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, dental bonding, or orthodontics. Most procedures can be done right in our office and do not need an oral surgeon.

Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery is needed if a patient has an injury to their mouth or jaw. This type of surgery can help repair the jaw or teeth, and restore the functionality of your mouth. Other issues that may require reconstructive surgery include patients that have lost their teeth or have severe decay. The condition of your teeth will determine what surgical procedures are necessary to restore your smile. Procedures such as implants or bone grafting are examples of what may be needed to reconstruct your smile.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about the benefits of dental surgery, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery. Our team has years of experience in creating beautiful smiles, and we strive to provide exceptional service. We provide quality dental care you can trust in a friendly and welcoming environment. Let our team help you restore your confidence with a new smile.

To schedule your consultation, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Dental Bone Graft

A dental bone graft is typically used for patients that have jawbone issues. Bone grafts are a common procedure and have been done for years. The procedure is relatively minor and can be done quickly. If patients have lost a tooth or have severe gum disease, bone grafts can be used to help restore your gums and jaw. Over time gum disease can progress if not treated and cause bone loss. This can affect your appearance, and cause your jaw to sag or look sunken in. At this point there is no bone left to support your face. Bone grafting can help to restore the support needed.

How Does Bone Grafting Work?

Typically, the procedure is done before your implant is placed. If you need to have a tooth removed that is done first, and then we will prepare the area for a bone graft if the patient does not have enough bone present to support the dental implant. This graft will help to create a stable base for your new tooth. Bone grafts can be taken from your own body, and are commonly taken from the back of the jawbone. Another option is to use a bone grafting material. This option is common because the patient does not need a surgical incision to reach the bone.

The area is cleaned and the bone grafting material is placed. Once the bone graft is complete the patient will need to heal for a few months before you can come back to have your implant placed. This gives the graft time to heal and develop new bone around the graft area. The procedure takes a few hours and is relatively simple.

What Can I Expect During Healing?

Some pain is expected after a bone graft procedure, but should subside after a few days. Patients can treat the area with a cold compress and take over the counter medications to help ease the pain. We recommend a liquid diet after your bone graft procedure. Slowly patients can introduce soft foods, and eventually resume their normal diet. Patients should avoid any strenuous activity that may affect the bone graft area during healing.

Interested in Finding Out More?

At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we offer may procedures to help you get the smile of your dreams. Bone grafting can help create a sturdy base for dental implants, and is a great option for patients who have bone loss. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery and we strive to provide the highest level of service to all of our patients.

To find out if bone grafting can benefit you, or to inquire about dental implants, contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Oral Surgery

If you have been recommended for dental surgery it is normal to feel anxious or wonder about the safety of anesthesia. With any surgery there are risks involved. Asking questions is important, and knowing what the risks are is also another factor the patient should research before they move forward with surgery. At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we provide safe and effective anesthesia methods only when necessary, for our patients. We safely monitor the patients during any oral surgery, and make sure they are comfortable.  Our team provides uncompromised safety using high end technology to give patients an exceptional experience when they visit our office.

What Are the Types of Anesthesia Used During Dental Surgery?

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthetics are commonly used in dentistry, and this is used to block the nerves so there is no pain. Local anesthesia is typically used for routine dental procedures such as fillings or crowns. Risks with this type of anesthesia are rare and this method is a great way to keep patients calm and relaxed during a procedure.

Sedation

Sedation dentistry is administered by breathing in nitrous oxide, medication, or via IV into the patient’s arm. This form of anesthesia allows the patient to be somewhat conscious during their procedure. Sedation dentistry is safe, and doctors undergo extensive training to be able to provide this service.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is typically done in a hospital setting, and requires an oral surgeon and anesthesiologist. This type of anesthesia can have side effects such as nausea or vomiting. The patient must be monitored closely while under general anesthesia.

A tube is used for breathing, and this tends to get in the way of dental surgery. Sedation is more commonly used because it can be controlled and reversed easier, compared to general anesthesia. Most dentists offer sedation dentistry because it is also easier to administer, and safely perform the surgery when the patient is somewhat conscious.

What Are the Risks Involved?

During your consultation we will thoroughly review your medical history and make sure you understand what is involved. We will discuss the method of sedation with you, so you are comfortable and know what to expect. Our doctors have extensive training in sedation dentistry, and this includes handling emergencies. Complications or death with anesthesia are rare, but it is always important to discuss your medical history before you undergo any surgery. Allergies and alcohol abuse are a common factor that could increase your risk for complications.

Complications of Anesthesia

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Swelling or numbness in the mouth
  • Swelling at the injection site

Dental surgeries are very common and when done by a skilled doctor, they are completely safe. At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we provide an environment where patients can remain relaxed, and know they are in good hands.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental surgery contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

Broken Jaw

Jaws are an important part of our oral health and help us to function normally. Eating, speaking, breathing, and drinking are all essential functions of the jaw. When you have an injury to your jaw it is important to watch out for certain symptoms that may indicate you need to call an oral surgeon.

At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we are trained to identify and treat jaw injuries or fractures. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery and jaw complications. We encourage patients that think they may have an issue with their jaw to contact our office, and be seen as soon as possible.

What Are the Symptoms of a Jaw Injury?

  • Swelling or bruising on your face
  • Protrusions on the side of your face
  • Pain that does not subside, or pain when you chew or move your jaw
  • Abnormal bite
  • A sudden overbite

If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If jaw fractures are not treated promptly an infection could develop.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Any jaw injury is treated as an emergency, and we encourage you to contact our office. Our doctor will meet with you, and evaluate the severity of your injury. A thorough exam will be done and x-rays will be taken. Depending on the issue, our doctor will try and move your jaw into the correct position. Local anesthetics may be used to help with pain, and allow our team work on your jaw.

If the break is severe, surgery may be required. Some jaw breaks can heal on their own if the patient can keep their jaw still. If there are multiple issues and fractures, the only solution may be oral surgery to repair the jaw.

What To Expect During Recovery?

After jaw surgery your mouth will be bandaged and wired shut. This helps to prevent you from moving the jaw and damaging the area that was fixed. Patients will not be able to use their jaw, or open their mouth for at least six weeks. We recommend a liquid diet with some soft foods only if the patient can chew them. Our staff will discuss recommended nutrition during your recovery. We want our patients to remain healthy and maintain their weight. Eating a nutritious diet to make sure you are consuming enough calories is important. Overall, the recovery will take several months until your jaw heals successfully.

Will There Be Any Long-Term Effects?

Most patients heal perfectly after their jaw surgery. The function of the jaw is restored, and they can go back to their normal routine. Some patients may experience side effects such as jaw pain or temporomandibular joint disorder. Protecting your jaw from future injury is important. Patients who have dislocated or broken their jaw are more susceptible to future injuries.

Do You Think You May Have A Jaw Injury?

If you suspect you may have a jaw injury, we encourage you to call our office to be seen right away. Jaw injuries are considered emergencies, and should always be treated promptly to avoid complications. At North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, we are trained to handle any dental emergency, and want our patients to know they are in good hands.

To schedule your appointment contact North Texas Oral & Facial Surgery, and our friendly staff will assist you.

Sleep Apnea

Most often patients turn to jaw surgery to correct their appearance, or to improve speaking and chewing. Many don’t realize that jaw surgery can also help patients that suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea is when a patient stops breathing while sleeping and tends to gasp for air. This happens when the muscles and jaw bones aren’t working together to support the airway. Common symptoms of sleep apnea include fatigue, loud snoring, headache, and constantly feeling sleepy.

How Can Jaw Surgery Help And Who is a Good Candidate?

Jaw surgery can help patients and realigns the jaw and teeth. This opens up the airway and allows the patient to sleep soundly. Many patients wonder if they are a good candidate for jaw surgery. We recommend patients go through our consultation process which includes a detailed examination of your mouth, teeth, and jaw bones. Our team will take x-rays to evaluate the details of your jaw and mouth.

Common Factors That Indicate You Are a Good Candidate

  • People suffering from sleep apnea
  • Jaw deformities
  • Underbite issues
  • Other bite issues
  • Jaw asymmetries

How Does Jaw Surgery Work?

Corrective jaw surgery is done using general anesthesia. During the surgery our doctor will make an incision in the gums and around the jaws. This gives access to the bones underneath. The bones are then repositioned appropriately using splints. Small plates or screws are used to stabilize the bones in place. The area is then stitched with dissolvable stiches.

If you suffer from sleep apnea, jaw surgery may be right for you. Many patients come back after surgery and rave about how their life has changed, and they can sleep peacefully.

What Can I Expect During Recovery?

After jaw surgery we typically require patients to stay overnight in the hospital. They then return home to recover and relax. We recommend patients follow a liquid diet for six weeks after the surgery. This will help the jaw and mouth to heal properly. Heavy lifting of anything is not recommended, and normal everyday tasks are perfectly fine.

After two weeks patients can begin light exercise, but should refrain from heavy exercise until six weeks after surgery.

What Can I Do To Prevent Sleep Apnea?

With sleep apnea weight is a common risk factor. We recommend patients exercise daily and eat a healthy diet. There are nonsurgical treatments such as the continuous positive airway pressure machine or CPAP mask to help limit symptoms. This is not a permanent solution, but another way for patients to alleviate symptoms at home.

Looking to Find Out How Jaw Surgery Can Benefit You?

If you suffer from sleep apnea and are interested in finding out how jaw surgery can benefit you, contract our office to schedule a consultation. Our detailed consultation process will allow our team to determine a treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have. Your health is our priority, let our team help get you on the road to better sleep.

To schedule your consultation please contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you!