Oral surgery involves several standard procedures. The procedures are performed when other methods of dentistry can not correct a problem with the teeth, jaw, or mouth. Many people are afraid of surgery, but oral surgeons routinely perform these procedures, so they are not to be feared. This article discusses some of the many procedures oral surgeons perform.

Implants: Dental implants effectively replace missing teeth and look and feel like natural teeth. The procedure will not only improve the appearance of your smile, but it will also restore the functionality of your teeth.

Bone grafts: A dental bone graft restores the volume and density of your jaw in areas where the bone has been lost. The material can be sourced from your own body or from a human or animal tissue bank. In some cases, the bone graft material may be synthetic. After a dental bone graft is placed, it provides a space for your own body to heal. Therefore, a dental bone graft is like a scaffold on which your own bone tissue can grow.

Orthognathic surgery: Often called orthognathic surgery, jaw surgery is a procedure that fixes a misaligned upper jaw and/or lower jaw by aligning them. It isn’t a single event. It’s a process that starts with orthodontic treatment, continues with jaw surgery, and is followed by months of recovery before more orthodontic work is needed.

Wisdom tooth extraction: If wisdom teeth become impacted, they should be extracted to prevent pain and infection. Additionally, wisdom teeth may need to be removed to prevent decay due to their difficult-to-reach position. Oral surgery for wisdom tooth extraction involves cutting through the gum tissue over the tooth, removing the connective tissue between it and the bone, removing the wisdom tooth, and sewing the gum back together. 

Treatments for TMJ Disorders- Temporomandibular disorders refer to problems with your jaw and the muscles in your face that control it. Pain when chewing, clicking in the jaw, and persistent headaches can all be symptoms of problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ disorders can be treated with surgery if more conservative treatments, such as mouthguards or oral splints, do not improve your symptoms. For some people, it may be necessary to perform surgery to restore full TMJ function. 

Nerve Repair– Accidents, injuries, and previous dental work can damage the nerves in your face and mouth. As a result of this condition, tingling, numbness, and even pain can be experienced. An oral surgeon is specially trained in micro-neurosurgery to treat issues related to nerve damage.

If you are experiencing any dental issues that require the treatment of a specialist, such as an oral surgeon, please contact our Oral Surgeon Plainfield to set up a consultation.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467

Your mouth is a gateway to the rest of your body. The condition of your mouth can, believe it or not, have a strong impact on your systemic health. Bacteria of all kinds are present in your mouth. While some are harmless, others may pose a significant threat to your health. Maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine and visiting your dental office for regular appointments can help keep your mouth free of harmful bacteria. Below are 3 common ailments that have been shown to be negatively impacted by poor oral health. 

Diabetes

Millions of Americans suffer from diabetes, and the disease can have many complications associated with it. A connection has been shown between diabetes and gum disease in many patients. Oral health problems often increase in frequency for patients with diabetes. Gingivitis and periodontitis are more common because these patients are at a higher risk of bacterial infection; they have a decreased immune response and longer healing time.

Blood glucose levels can also be affected by gum disease, potentially putting a patient with diabetes at a higher risk for additional health problems. The bacteria found in the mouth associated with gum disease have been shown to significantly elevate blood glucose levels.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects 1.5 million people in the US alone. This chronic inflammatory disorder affects joints and is caused by the body’s immune system attacking its own tissues. Patients with RA are more likely to suffer from gum disease and periodontitis. Likewise, patients with periodontal issues have been shown to have nearly twice the risk of developing RA according to a study conducted by the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.

Any type of autoimmune disease can significantly impact your oral health. A hyperactive or decreased immune response will cause inflammation in the gum tissue, eventually leading to periodontal (gum) disease. 

Lung Conditions

Once bacteria enter your bloodstream through your mouth, they can travel throughout your body and affect other locations. Conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia can be caused by harmful bacteria settling into a patient’s lungs. Other existing issues such as emphysema and chronic pulmonary disease can be exacerbated by the invading bacteria.

If you suffer from any of these conditions or are concerned that poor oral health might be putting you at risk, please contact our Oral Surgeon Orland Park office today. Our dedicated 60435 Oral Surgeon team will be happy to provide you with prevention tips based on your current health.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467