Dentistry is a field that has changed dramatically over the years. Dentists have always been at the forefront of innovation, from simple fillings to tooth implants, oral surgery procedures, and orthodontics.
Dentists who specialize in oral surgery are known as oral and maxillofacial surgeons. They are often involved in several procedures, including wisdom tooth extractions, jaw reduction surgery, gum grafting, and dental implants. A general dentist also performs oral surgery procedures. General dentists who perform oral surgery typically have additional training and certification in this area of dentistry.
Oral Surgeon Procedures
Here are some standard procedures that are performed by oral surgeons at North County dental care and Orthodontics:
- To repair a cavity or replace a lost filling, your dentist will first numb the area with local anesthesia. Then, they will drill out the damaged area and remove any decay with special instruments. Next, they will place an impression material in the hole where the wreckage was cleared. After it dries hard like cement, they will sculpt it into shape and then fill it with a customized mixture of composite resin that matches your natural tooth color as closely as possible.
- Root Canals. If bacteria get inside your tooth root and begin to destroy it, you may need to undergo root canal therapy (also known as endodontic treatment). During this procedure, your dentist will remove all infected tissue inside your tooth (including nerve tissue) so that only healthy pulp remains. Then they will seal off this space using a material called gutta-percha which promotes healing.
- Wisdom Tooth Extractions. Wisdom teeth appear last during development. If they do not erupt correctly or if they become impacted due to crowding or other problems, they may need to be removed surgically by an oral surgeon.
- Gum Grafts. Gum grafts involve taking tissue from one part of your mouth and transplanting it to another region to grow more quickly there than it would naturally. This technique often treats receding gum lines caused by periodontal disease (gum disease).
- Dental implants. Dental implants are artificial replacements for missing teeth that have been designed to look like natural teeth.
- Cleft Lip Repair/Palate Closure (Surgery to Correct Cleft Lip or Palate). Cleft lip repair/palate closure is a surgical procedure that closes a baby’s cleft lip and/or palate. The cleft is repaired with a series of stitches and possibly reinforced with bone grafts, which help the tissue, grow together. The surgery may also involve the use of tissue expanders, which are balloons made of silicone that are placed under the skin on either side of the cleft to stretch it out so that it can be closed more easily.
Get the Best Oral Surgeon in Vista
Are you in search of an oral surgeon in Vista, CA? We have some of the best in the area. Our practice is led by the best oral surgeons who are passionate about helping patients achieve their smile goals. Our office is located in Vista, California, and serves patients from all over the San Diego area. Send us an email at [email protected] or call us at 760-940-4266 and book an appointment today.
Recent Comments