TMJ and Facial Pain The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. The joint permits the lower jaw to move and function. The TMJ is the most constantly used joint in the body. TMJ disorders are not uncommon. Individuals with a TMJ […]
Continue ReadingWhile it might be common knowledge when and why to visit a general practitioner or a dentist, what prompts a patient to visit an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS)? As experts in face, mouth and jaw surgery, OMSs treat a range of conditions, including: Many people have their wisdom teeth removed by an OMS. Dental implants are placed […]
Continue ReadingNine out of 10 people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth, making wisdom tooth extraction a common outpatient surgery. It’s normal to have questions before and after wisdom tooth removal, and these frequently asked questions about wisdom teeth are a place to start. What Are Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth are a person’s third set […]
Continue ReadingBone grafting can be used in medical/dental procedures, such as tooth extractions, dental implant placement, facial trauma treatment and reconstructive surgery of the mouth, face and jaws. The goal of bone grafting is to provide good quantity and quality of bone at the desired site for proper form and function. Bone grafting to facilitate dental implant therapy enables patients improve their […]
Continue ReadingWhat is an OMS? An OMS – also known as oral and maxillofacial surgeon – is the surgical expert of the dental profession. OMSs’ extensive education and training, surgical expertise and understanding of esthetics and function qualify them to treat diseases, defects, injuries and esthetic aspects of the mouth, teeth, jaws and face. The first […]
Continue ReadingEdentulism is the condition defined by the loss of at least one functional tooth. It can be classified as partial edentulism (one or more lost teeth) to complete edentulism (when a patient has lost all teeth). Whether due to decay, periodontal disease or trauma, edentulism has a significant effect on a patient’s oral health. While […]
Continue ReadingOral and maxillofacial surgeons train extensively in the pursuit of their degrees, including working side-by-side with anesthesiologists, to offer a range of anesthesia options in their practices. Different procedures might require different levels of anesthesia, from local anesthesia to general anesthesia. Patients should learn about each of these types and discuss anesthesia options with their […]
Continue ReadingAlthough wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure for teenagers, many people grow into adulthood with their wisdom teeth. Whether their wisdom teeth are impacted or have erupted, adults should monitor them and practice good wisdom tooth care. Wisdom teeth require extra attention because: Their unique placement in the mouth can make exposed wisdom teeth especially difficult to floss, […]
Continue ReadingIt can take several weeks to fully heal after a tooth extraction. To support healing, it is important to follow an OMS-approved plan of what to eat after wisdom tooth surgery. The mouth and gums will be very sensitive post-procedure, and while patients can build up a tolerance to more solid foods as time progresses, sticking […]
Continue ReadingWisdom teeth are the third set of molars that generally come in between the ages of 17 and 25. These four teeth are generally the last to emerge in adults, but what does it mean for wisdom teeth to be “impacted?” Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not have room to develop normally or […]
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