Surgical Removal of Impacted Teeth
What is it?
A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. Extractions of impacted or problematic wisdom teeth are routinely performed.
Who is it for?
The procedure is performed when there is insufficient space for wisdom teeth, or when there is evidence of disease in the impacted tooth or the near environment.
Recovery time
Following the extraction of the tooth, a blood clot forms in the socket, usually within an hour. Bleeding usually stops after 24 hours. A soft tissue wound takes about one week to heal, while a bony socket wound takes longer (± 8 weeks).
Risks
Infection, prolonged bleeding or swelling may occur.
Dental Implants
What is it?
A dental implant is a device, usually made of titanium, to support restorations that resemble a tooth or group of teeth. It is used to replace missing teeth. The implant act as the “root” of the tooth.
Who is it for?
Dental implants can be used to support a number of dental prostheses, including crowns, implant-supported bridges or dentures.
Recovery time
The healing process can take between six to twelve weeks.
Risks
Patients may experience swelling and tenderness for a few days after the surgery.
Osteotomy
What is it?
Also known as corrective jaw surgery, the procedure is performed by cutting, moving, modifying or realigning bone to correct a dentofacial deformity, growth disturbance, trauma or pathology.
Who is it for?
The operation is used to correct jaw problems such as open bites, difficulty chewing, difficulty swallowing, excessive wear of the teeth and receding chins.
Recovery time
All dentofacial osteotomies require an extensive healing period. Patients are able to return to work ten to fourteen days after the surgery, but must follow specific rules for recovery for up to twenty weeks.
Risks
Complications associated with osteotomies consist of sensory change and bacterial infections may also occur.
Fractured Jaw Surgery
What is it?
Fractured jaw surgery is often needed for moderate to severe fractures. The jaw may be wired to the teeth of the opposite jaw to improve stability (closed reduction) or an open reduction may be performed using plates and screws (titanium).
Who is it for?
The most common cause of a fractured or dislocated jaw is injury to the face due to assault, an industrial accident, a motor vehicle accident, or a recreational or sports injury.
Recovery time
Jaw wires are usually left in place for six to eight weeks. Small elastic bands are also used to hold the teeth together. If the jaw is wired, a patient may only drink liquids or eat very soft foods.
Risks
Complications may include airway blockage (if wired), bleeding, jaw joint pain, infection of the jaw or face and change or loss of sensation in the cheeks or lips.