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FAQ

Dental Implants

Do implants need special care?

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take good care of them and keep your mouth healthy. Good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists is key to the long-term success of dental implants.

What type of anesthesia is used?

The majority of dental implants and bone grafting can be performed in our office under local anesthesia, with or without general anesthesia. Our team is trained to safely and effectively administer oral sedation, IV, and general anesthesia.

Am I a candidate for implants?

If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, there are ways of improving the outcome, such as bone grafting, which may be recommended.

Why select dental implants over more traditional types of restorations?

There are several reasons: A dental bridge can sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth to bridge the space of the missing tooth/teeth. In addition, removing a denture or a “partial” at night may be inconvenient, not to mention dentures that slip can be uncomfortable and rather embarrassing.

Why dental implants?

Dental implants can vastly improve your life. When you lose several teeth – whether it’s a new situation or something that you have lived with for years – chances are you’ve never become fully accustomed to missing such a vital part of yourself.

A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark, developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than 35 years ago. With his pioneering research, Dr. Branemark opened the door to a lifetime of renewed comfort and self-confidence for millions of individuals facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.

What types of prostheses are available?

A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending on a variety of factors. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball-in-socket attachment, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.

Our doctors perform in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite. Inpatient hospital implant surgery is for patients who have special medical or anesthetic needs or for those who need extensive bone grafting.

TMJ Treatment

Is TMJ surgery necessary in all cases?

No, TMJ surgery is not necessary in all cases. Surgery is typically only recommended in severe cases where other treatments have been unsuccessful.

What should I expect during a TMJ treatment appointment?

During a TMJ treatment appointment, a dentist will examine your jaw, face, and neck, and may use imaging tests to diagnose the disorder. If necessary, the dentist will develop a treatment plan to help manage your symptoms and improve the function of your jaw.

Can lifestyle changes help with TMJ disorders?

Yes, lifestyle changes can help with TMJ disorders. This includes reducing stress, avoiding foods that are difficult to chew, practicing good posture, and avoiding behaviors like teeth grinding or clenching.

How long does it take for TMJ treatment to work?

The time it takes for TMJ treatment to work varies depending on the type of treatment and the severity of the disorder. In general, treatment can take several weeks or months to become effective.

Can TMJ be treated?

Yes, TMJ disorders can be treated. The type of treatment will depend on the severity of the disorder and the underlying cause.

How is TMJ diagnosed?

TMJ is diagnosed through a thorough examination of the jaw, face, and neck, as well as a review of medical and dental history. A dentist may also use X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans to diagnose TMJ disorders.

What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint. It is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull and is responsible for the movement of the jaw.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

How can I schedule a consultation for sleep apnea treatment?

To schedule a consultation for sleep apnea treatment at Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, simply contact our office and speak with our staff to set up an appointment.

What is the success rate of sleep apnea treatment?

The success rate of sleep apnea treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment option, but many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms.

Does insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?

Sleep apnea treatment is often covered by insurance, but it is important to check with your specific insurance provider to determine what is covered.

What surgical interventions are available for sleep apnea?

Surgical interventions for sleep apnea may include uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), and genioglossus advancement (GA).

How do oral appliances work to treat sleep apnea?

Oral appliances are designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to help keep the airway open while sleeping, reducing the risk of breathing interruptions.

What treatment options are available for sleep apnea?

There are several treatment options available for sleep apnea, including lifestyle changes, oral appliances, and surgical interventions.

What causes sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is typically caused by an obstruction in the airway, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, alcohol consumption, and other lifestyle factors.

Oral Surgery

Will my insurance cover the cost of oral surgery?

The specifics of insurance coverage for oral surgery will depend on your individual insurance plan. Your oral surgeon's office can work with you to determine your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs associated with the procedure.

How can I prepare for oral surgery?

Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions for preparing for your surgery, which may include avoiding food and drink for a period of time prior to the procedure, arranging for transportation to and from the office, and arranging for someone to stay with you following the surgery. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful procedure.

When can I return to normal activities after oral surgery?

The timeline for returning to normal activities after oral surgery will depend on the specific procedure and your individual healing process. In general, you should plan to take it easy for a few days after surgery, avoiding strenuous physical activity, smoking, and alcohol. Your oral surgeon will provide guidance on when you can return to work, school, and other regular activities.

How long does it take to recover from oral surgery?

The recovery time after oral surgery will depend on the type of surgery you had and your individual healing process. In general, you can expect to experience some discomfort and swelling in the days following surgery and may need to stick to a soft diet for a period of time. Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions for postoperative care, including pain management, wound care, and dietary restrictions.

What are the risks and complications associated with oral surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with oral surgery. These may include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, damage to adjacent teeth or structures, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Your oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you prior to your surgery and take steps to minimize them.

What should I expect during an oral surgery procedure?

The specifics of your oral surgery procedure will depend on the type of surgery you are having. In general, you can expect to receive local anesthesia or conscious sedation to numb the area and help you relax during the procedure. The surgeon will then make incisions, remove tissues or teeth as needed, and close the incision with sutures. Following the surgery, you will be given instructions for postoperative care and pain management.

What can I expect during a consultation with an oral surgeon?

During your initial consultation, the oral surgeon will review your medical and dental history, perform a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth, and may order imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans. The surgeon will then discuss your diagnosis, treatment options, and any associated risks or complications.

What are the most common oral surgeries?

Some of the most common oral surgeries include wisdom tooth extraction, dental implant placement, corrective jaw surgery, removal of tumors or cysts in the jaw or mouth, and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

What is oral surgery?

Oral surgery is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face. It involves surgical procedures that address a range of conditions, including impacted teeth, jaw disorders, oral cancers, and facial trauma.

Wisdom Teeth Removals

How can I prevent dry sockets?

To prevent dry socket, you should avoid using straws and smoking for at least a week after the procedure. You should also avoid touching the socket with your tongue or fingers and follow your oral surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully.

What is a dry socket?

Dry socket is a complication that can occur after wisdom teeth removal. It happens when the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth was removed becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves. This can be very painful and may require additional treatment.

What should I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

You should stick to soft foods for the first few days after wisdom teeth removal. Some good options include soup, yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. You should also avoid drinking through a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

The recovery time after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but most people are able to return to their normal activities within a week. You may experience swelling and discomfort for the first few days, but this can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.

What types of anesthesia are used for wisdom teeth removal?

There are different types of anesthesia used for wisdom teeth removal, including local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the complexity of the procedure and your personal preference.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

Wisdom teeth removal is generally not painful because the procedure is done under anesthesia. You may experience some discomfort and swelling after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with pain medication and ice packs.

How do I know if I need to get my wisdom teeth removed?

Your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your teeth and take X-rays to determine if your wisdom teeth need to be removed. Symptoms that may indicate a problem with your wisdom teeth include pain, swelling, and redness around the area.

What happens if I don't get my wisdom teeth removed?

Not everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth removed, but it's important to monitor them. If they are causing problems, they can lead to infection, pain, and tooth decay. They can also damage the surrounding teeth and gums.

Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

Most people have to get their wisdom teeth removed because they can cause problems when they don't grow properly. When there isn't enough space for them to grow in, they can cause pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25.

Emergency

What should I do if I have a knocked-out tooth?

If you have a knocked-out tooth, it's important to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. In the meantime, rinse the tooth with water and try to place it back in the socket. If that's not possible, place the tooth in a container of milk and bring it with you to your emergency dental appointment.

How much will emergency dental care cost?

The cost of emergency dental care will vary depending on the type and severity of the dental emergency or injury. Our team will provide you with a detailed cost estimate before beginning treatment.

Will I need to schedule a follow-up appointment after receiving emergency dental care?

Yes, in most cases, you will need to schedule a follow-up appointment with one of our dentists to ensure that your treatment is successful and to address any lingering issues.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of regular office hours?

If you have a dental emergency outside of regular office hours, please call our office and follow the instructions provided on our voicemail.

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