You may associate oral surgery with drastic, last-resort procedures. Modern oral surgery is not that at all. When we talk about it, we’re largely referring to restorative treatments focused on rebuilding, healing, and enhancing your oral health. Read on to learn more.

Tooth Extractions, Done With the Next Step in Mind

An extraction is often the first step in oral surgery, but the tooth is rarely the only concern. When a tooth can’t be saved, extraction is the best option. What sets a well-planned extraction apart is attention to what follows. In many cases, when we perform a tooth extraction, we’re also preparing for future procedures, so your healing afterward is just as important as the extraction itself.

Dental Implants, Built to Replace the Whole Tooth

A dental implant replaces more than the visible part of a tooth. A titanium post placed in the jawbone bonds with it through osseointegration. Once fully healed, the implant supports a custom crown, restoring function and appearance. The completed implant restores nearly 100% of your bite force, prevents bone loss, and helps to keep the rest of your teeth healthy. 

Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts, Creating the Foundation First

You may learn during your implant consultation that there isn’t enough supporting jawbone due to the long-term effects of tooth loss. Bone grafting adds volume and density where the jaw has lost structure. A sinus lift, for the upper jaw, repositions the sinus to make space for bone and, ultimately, an implant. These steps are not obstacles but make implant placement possible when it otherwise wouldn’t be an option.

Bone Contouring and Soft Tissue Grafting, Improving What Remains

Not all oral surgery replaces teeth. Some denture wearers have uneven or sharp bone structure, which can make a secure fit difficult. Bone contouring smooths and reshapes the jaw, improving the surface on which the denture rests and increasing comfort. Soft tissue grafting solves another problem. Gum recession exposes tooth roots, causing sensitivity, increasing the risk of decay, and altering your smile. Grafting uses either donor tissue or your own to rebuild the gumline, cover tooth roots, and reinforce support around your teeth.

Biopsies, Catching Problems Before They Develop Further

Oral surgery includes diagnostics. A biopsy is an important step if you have an abnormal lesion in your mouth or notice changes that persist for more than a couple of weeks, as it can provide clear answers. During a biopsy procedure, we take a small tissue sample and have it analyzed for abnormal cells that indicate cancer or precancer. The earlier we can detect these abnormalities, the better and more effective treatment options you’ll have available to you. 

There’s Nothing to Fear With Oral Surgery

When we recommend oral surgery, we do so because it will make your life better. We plan each procedure precisely to give you the best possible outcome. 

If you’re concerned about your oral health or haven’t been in to see us recently, we’d love to hear from you. Call to schedule an appointment at our office located in North Huntingdon, PA.