Common Oral Surgery Procedures Explained

At New Era Dental in Ann Arbor, Michigan, our skilled team of oral surgeons and dental professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients. We offer a wide range of oral surgery procedures to address various dental and facial conditions.

Here, we explore the top five most common oral surgery procedures and explain what they entail.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often require removal due to lack of space in the jaw, leading to impaction, pain, and potential complications. At New Era Dental, our experienced oral surgeons use advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology to ensure safe and comfortable wisdom teeth removal procedures.

During the procedure, our surgeons will carefully numb the area with local anesthesia, and in some cases, general anesthesia may be used. They will then make an incision in the gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth and carefully extract it. Stitches may be required to close the surgical site, and patients can expect some swelling and discomfort during the recovery period. Our team will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.

Click to learn more about wisdom tooth extractions.

Root Canals

At New Era Dental, our endodontists (root canal specialists) are highly skilled in performing root canal procedures to save teeth that have become severely decayed or infected. When the pulp (the soft inner tissue of the tooth) becomes inflamed or infected, a root canal is necessary to remove the damaged pulp, clean and seal the inside of the tooth, and prevent further complications.

During the procedure, the endodontist will numb the area with local anesthesia and create a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using specialized instruments, they will carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean and shape the inside of the tooth, and then seal it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. After the root canal, the tooth will typically require a crown or other restoration to protect and strengthen it.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth at New Era Dental. An implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone (a process called osseointegration), a dental crown, bridge, or denture can be attached to the implant, restoring the function and appearance of the missing tooth or teeth.

For patients who are missing most or all of their teeth, we offer the innovative All-on-4 dental implant solution. This technique involves strategically placing just four implants in the upper or lower jaw, which can then support a full arch of replacement teeth. All-on-4 implants provide a stable, comfortable, and natural-looking solution for those with significant tooth loss.

Gum Grafts

Receding gums can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and an unsightly appearance. At New Era Dental, our oral surgeons perform gum grafts, also known as gingival grafts, to address gum tissue loss and restore a healthy, aesthetic appearance.

During a gum graft procedure, the oral surgeon will take a small piece of gum tissue from another area of the mouth (often the palate) or use donated tissue and transplant it to the area where the gum has receded. This new tissue is then secured in place, and over time, it will fuse with the existing gum tissue, providing a more aesthetic appearance and protecting the exposed root surfaces.

Maxillofacial Surgery

New Era Dental’s team of skilled maxillofacial surgeons specializes in correcting congenital or acquired deformities, injuries, and diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and neck regions. These procedures can be functional, reconstructive, or cosmetic in nature.

Some common maxillofacial surgical procedures we offer include:

Orthognathic surgery: Correcting jaw misalignments or bite problems
Cleft lip and palate repair: Correcting congenital deformities
Facial trauma repair: Treating injuries to the face, jaws, or skull
Tumor removal: Removing benign or malignant tumors from the oral and maxillofacial region
Jaw reconstruction: Rebuilding the jawbone after trauma or tumor removal

Our maxillofacial surgeons work closely with other dental specialists, including orthodontists and prosthodontists, to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Oral Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I prepare for oral surgery at New Era Dental?

A: Our team will provide you with specific instructions, but in general, you may need to avoid certain medications, quit smoking, and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure if you’ll be under sedation or general anesthesia. Following our pre-operative instructions carefully can help ensure a smooth recovery.

Q: Does New Era Dental offer sedation options for oral surgery procedures?

A: Yes, we offer various sedation options, including local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and general anesthesia, depending on the procedure and the patient’s preferences. Our experienced anesthesia team ensures a comfortable and safe experience.

Q: How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal at New Era Dental?

A: Recovery time can vary, but most people experience swelling, discomfort, and some bruising for a few days after the procedure. Our team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and recommend taking it easy for a few days and sticking to a soft diet until the surgical sites have healed.

Q: Does New Era Dental use advanced technology for dental implant procedures?

A: Yes, we use the latest technology and techniques for dental implant procedures, including 3D imaging and computer-guided surgery, to ensure precise implant placement and optimal results.

Q: How long do dental implants last at New Era Dental?

A: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants placed at New Era Dental can last for many years, often decades. The lifespan of an implant depends on factors such as oral hygiene, bite force, and overall health. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on caring for your dental implants to ensure their longevity.

Q: Does New Era Dental offer financing options for oral surgery procedures?

A: Yes, we understand that oral surgery procedures can be a significant investment, and we offer various financing options to make treatment more accessible and affordable for our patients. Our friendly staff will be happy to discuss our financing plans and help you find a solution that works for your budget.

Securing Your Smile: Your Trusted Partner at New Era Dental

At New Era Dental, we understand that oral health concerns can arise unexpectedly, and addressing them promptly is crucial for maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you require a routine wisdom tooth removal or a complex maxillofacial surgery procedure, our skilled team of oral surgeons, endodontists, and dental professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to your unique needs.

Our state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology, and commitment to patient comfort ensure that you receive the highest standard of care every step of the way. From the initial consultation to the post-operative follow-up, we prioritize your well-being and strive to make your experience with us as seamless and stress-free as possible.

When it comes to your oral health, you deserve nothing but the best. Trust New Era Dental to be your partner in securing and maintaining a radiant, healthy smile for years to come.

The Top 5 Most Common Oral Surgery Procedures Explained