Nine out of 10 people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth, leading millions of Americans to require wisdom teeth removal. This makes it one of the most common surgical procedures in the country.

Still, the idea of oral surgery can be a bit daunting. However, if you prepare correctly and follow the proper steps after the procedure, you will be on your way to a swift recovery. 

Wisdom teeth are the last of our teeth to show up, and they do so long past childhood when we are between 17-25 years old. Also known as third molars, wisdom teeth cause frequent trouble as they often struggle to find a place to grow normally in our gums and end up impacted. 

Despite their positive-sounding name, wisdom teeth can cause extreme discomfort when they develop. This can also lead to infection, damage to neighboring teeth, tooth decay, and receding gums. 

So now that you have booked your surgery and are ready to relieve your pain for good, how do you prepare? 

The Day Before Wisdom Teeth Removal

Your preparation will depend on what treatment is being offered.

If your dentist is extracting more than one wisdom tooth you may need to get ready to undergo general anesthesia. This means no eating or drinking for eight hours before the surgery. Not following your anesthesia instructions can lead to serious complications.

Smoking in the 12 hours leading up to surgery is also a no-no.

Inform your doctor of any other medication you may take, and be honest about drug and alcohol consumption.

Make sure you have arranged for a friend or family member to accompany you to your surgery, as you will be too unable to drive yourself if you underwent general anesthesia. Stock up on soft foods, to see you through the coming days.

And importantly, if for any reason you are not feeling well, please give us a call, and we will discuss how to proceed.

Surgery Day: What to Expect

Our surgeons use advanced procedures which ensure less pain and swelling and will make the healing process more comfortable.

It is best to arrive early to give yourself time to complete any necessary paperwork and avoid stress. Arrive in the office dressed in comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, without make-up or jewelry. 

Then relax in the safe hands of our expert surgeons, who are on the teaching faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry and also serve as surgical staff at Providence Saint Johns Health Center.

Wisdom teeth removal can take up to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case. It is usually easier if the tooth has fully emerged, whereas a partially erupted third molar can take a bit more time. 

Once you have been safely escorted home by your friend or family member, it is time for a few days of rest and recovery.

What Can I Eat?

Yes, it’s true, you can’t dive right into your regular diet right after surgery, and ice cream will only get you so far. So how do you eat after wisdom teeth removal?

The most important thing is to eat soft, smooth foods that don’t require chewing so you can avoid disturbing the wound.

Once the numbness wears off after surgery, smoothies, yogurts, mashed potatoes, or other pureed vegetables are ideal. Soup is also a good option but be careful not to eat it too hot as this can irritate the wound. 

You will also need to avoid hot beverages for the first few days as this can increase your chances of a painful condition called dry socket. In addition, stay away from any hard or crunchy foods, spicy food, or soda for a few days. Visit our website to see what foods are recommended for post oral surgery. 

Avoiding Dry Socket

Normally after surgery, a blood clot will form where the wisdom tooth was removed that will protect the wound and aid healing. If this clot is dislodged, it can expose painful nerve endings, make it even harder to eat, and lead to a slower recovery period.

A dry socket is one of the main complications after oral surgery. Still, it is easy to avoid if you follow your surgeon’s instructions.

Firstly, use an ice pack on the outside of your face for the first day or two. Don’t use a straw – as the sucking pressure can dislodge the clot. Smoking has the same effect so if you are a smoker, avoid doing so for as long as you can after your wisdom teeth removal.

When doing your oral hygiene routine, brush your teeth as gently as you can, and use any mouth wash or salt-water solution your surgeon suggests.

Swelling is expected after your surgery, reaching its peak 48 hours after your wisdom teeth have been extracted. To limit minor bleeding, make sure to elevate your head with two or three pillows when you lie down. Avoid strenuous activity for 5-7 days.

Further Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

You may experience several other side effects from your surgery, such as bruising, difficulty opening your mouth, a slight earache, or a bit of a high temperature.

Use any pain medication as directed, and if you have any concerns contact our office where our surgeons will happily guide you through your recovery.

And if you are still hesitating over whether wisdom teeth removal is right for you, or are interested in learning more about our cutting-edge dental implant technologies, book an appointment today.

The post Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Surgery: Do’s and Dont’s appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

source https://santamonicaoms.com/2022/05/17/preparing-for-wisdom-teeth-surgery-dos-and-donts/

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Table of Contents

• The Day Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
• Surgery Day: What to Expect
• What Can I Eat?
• Avoiding Dry Socket
• Further Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Nine out of 10 people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth, leading millions of Americans to require wisdom teeth removal. This makes it one of the most common surgical procedures in the country.

Still, the idea of oral surgery can be a bit daunting. However, if you prepare correctly and follow the proper steps after the procedure, you will be on your way to a swift recovery.

Wisdom teeth are the last of our teeth to show up, and they do so long past childhood when we are between 17-25 years old. Also known as third molars, wisdom teeth cause frequent trouble as they often struggle to find a place to grow normally in our gums and end up impacted.

Despite their positive-sounding name, wisdom teeth can cause extreme discomfort when they develop. This can also lead to infection, damage to neighboring teeth, tooth decay, and receding gums.

So now that you have booked your surgery and are ready to relieve your pain for good, how do you prepare?

The Day Before Wisdom Teeth Removal

Your preparation will depend on what treatment is being offered.

If your dentist is extracting more than one wisdom tooth you may need to get ready to undergo general anesthesia. This means no eating or drinking for eight hours before the surgery. Not following your anesthesia instructions can lead to serious complications.

Smoking in the 12 hours leading up to surgery is also a no-no.

Inform your doctor of any other medication you may take, and be honest about drug and alcohol consumption.

Make sure you have arranged for a friend or family member to accompany you to your surgery, as you will be too unable to drive yourself if you underwent general anesthesia. Stock up on soft foods, to see you through the coming days.

And importantly, if for any reason you are not feeling well, please give us a call, and we will discuss how to proceed.

Surgery Day: What to Expect

Our surgeons use advanced procedures which ensure less pain and swelling and will make the healing process more comfortable.

It is best to arrive early to give yourself time to complete any necessary paperwork and avoid stress. Arrive in the office dressed in comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, without make-up or jewelry.

Then relax in the safe hands of our expert surgeons, who are on the teaching faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry and also serve as surgical staff at Providence Saint Johns Health Center.

Wisdom teeth removal can take up to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case. It is usually easier if the tooth has fully emerged, whereas a partially erupted third molar can take a bit more time.

Once you have been safely escorted home by your friend or family member, it is time for a few days of rest and recovery.

What Can I Eat?

Yes, it’s true, you can’t dive right into your regular diet right after surgery, and ice cream will only get you so far. So how do you eat after wisdom teeth removal?

The most important thing is to eat soft, smooth foods that don’t require chewing so you can avoid disturbing the wound.

Once the numbness wears off after surgery, smoothies, yogurts, mashed potatoes, or other pureed vegetables are ideal. Soup is also a good option but be careful not to eat it too hot as this can irritate the wound.

You will also need to avoid hot beverages for the first few days as this can increase your chances of a painful condition called dry socket. In addition, stay away from any hard or crunchy foods, spicy food, or soda for a few days. Visit our website to see what foods are recommended for post oral surgery.

Avoiding Dry Socket

Normally after surgery, a blood clot will form where the wisdom tooth was removed that will protect the wound and aid healing. If this clot is dislodged, it can expose painful nerve endings, make it even harder to eat, and lead to a slower recovery period.

A dry socket is one of the main complications after oral surgery. Still, it is easy to avoid if you follow your surgeon’s instructions.

Firstly, use an ice pack on the outside of your face for the first day or two. Don’t use a straw – as the sucking pressure can dislodge the clot. Smoking has the same effect so if you are a smoker, avoid doing so for as long as you can after your wisdom teeth removal.

When doing your oral hygiene routine, brush your teeth as gently as you can, and use any mouth wash or salt-water solution your surgeon suggests.

Swelling is expected after your surgery, reaching its peak 48 hours after your wisdom teeth have been extracted. To limit minor bleeding, make sure to elevate your head with two or three pillows when you lie down. Avoid strenuous activity for 5-7 days.

Further Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

You may experience several other side effects from your surgery, such as bruising, difficulty opening your mouth, a slight earache, or a bit of a high temperature.

Use any pain medication as directed, and if you have any concerns contact our office where our surgeons will happily guide you through your recovery.

And if you are still hesitating over whether wisdom teeth removal is right for you, or are interested in learning more about our cutting-edge dental implant technologies, book an appointment today.

The post Things To Do and Avoid Both Before and After Wisdom Teeth Removal appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

source https://santamonicaoms.com/2022/05/17/things-to-do-and-avoid-both-before-and-after-wisdom-teeth-removal/

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Almost 24% of people around the world have a fear of the dentist. Are you a little worried about your upcoming oral surgery? Most first-time patients are, especially when the procedure involves sedation.

The biggest concern is whether or not sedation at the dentist is safe. Specifically, are there any possible dangers you should worry about? The good news is, that there’s virtually no risk involved with sedation dentistry.

Still, patients also wonder, “How long does oral surgery take?” And, for that matter, how long does the sedation last?

The answers largely depend on the type of sedation and the particular oral surgery procedure involved. Fortunately, we explain everything you need to know in this guide.

What follows is a complete overview of oral surgery with sedation. Read on to put your mind at ease.

What Is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation means that the dentist or oral surgeon administers drugs to put the patient into a deeply relaxed state. There are different levels of sedation used for oral surgery.

Minimal sedation means that the patient is fully awake but very relaxed. Moderate sedation has added effects, such as slurred speech and no memory of the procedure.

Deep sedation means that the patient is almost asleep but still conscious and aware. General anesthesia renders the patient fully unconscious.

Which Patients Need Sedation Dentistry?

Not all patients require sedation for oral surgery. But it’s usually recommended for patients who have:

• Fear, anxiety, or phobia about dental procedures
• Fear, anxiety, or phobia about needles
• A claustrophobic fear of being confined to the chair for the procedure
• A hypersensitive gag reflex
• Very sensitive teeth
• An above-average immunity to local anesthesia
• Symptoms of certain medical conditions/special needs that may interfere with the procedure

Put simply, sedation is used to keep the patient calm and compliant so that the oral surgeon can perform the surgery.

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

Here, we list the different types of sedation used for oral surgery. This list describes how each sedative is administered and how long it lasts. It’s also helpful to ask your surgeon (before surgery) which sedative they’ll use for your particular procedure. 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is combined with oxygen and inhaled through the lungs. Thus, it’s a great option for patients who don’t like needles or pills.

Nitrous oxide tends to have a happy and euphoric effect on patients. The sedated patient is still aware of the procedure. But they won’t feel it and they may not remember it.

These effects happen within minutes however, they fade quickly once the gas is stopped. Therefore, nitrous oxide is administered continuously throughout the duration of the procedure.

Oral Sedatives

The dentist may offer oral medication to sedate the patient. It takes about 20 minutes for these sedatives to take effect. And the effects can last for over an hour.

Patients sedated this way may be drowsy. But they’re usually kept awake during surgery. Additionally, these patients are asked not to consume any food or drinks before the surgery.

Intravenous Sedatives

Intravenous sedatives are only ideal for very long procedures. The effects are instant and administered continuously. This allows the surgeon to control the exact level of sedation at all times.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is the last resort for patients who will not or cannot remain calm and still any other way. Anesthetized patients will be unconscious and completely unaware of the procedure.

While complications are rare, this method poses a slight risk of danger to the patient. Conversely, the other methods do not.

Preparing the Patient/Yourself For Oral Surgery

For specific instructions, ask your surgeon how you or your loved one should prepare for oral surgery with sedation. Here, however, we describe some general instructions.

Emotional Preparation/Support

If the surgery is for your child, you’ll know best how to comfort him/her. For example, ask the surgeon if your child can hold their favorite toy/stuffed animal during the surgery.

Also, some children feel better knowing the details of the procedure. Use discretion and explain the procedure to the child, if it helps. During the procedure, speak to and touch the child (when allowed), keeping his/her focus on you.

On the other hand, if you are the patient, recruit a loved one to comfort you in these ways. 

General Instructions/Safeguards

For nitrous oxide sedation, patients may consume a light meal beforehand. Other types of sedation have more strict requirements. Specifically, no food or drinks are allowed after midnight on the day of the procedure.

Typically, however, clear drinks like water or apple juice are allowed before the surgery. This includes any translucent beverage with no solids in it (namely, pulp).

As such, milk, coffee, and orange juice are not allowed. Artificial/sugary drinks like soda aren’t okay, either. Regardless of these general guidelines, though, please get specific instructions from your surgeon. 

Instructions For Infants Younger Than 12 Months

Babies younger than 12 months may sometimes require oral surgery. These patients should be fed within 4-6 hours before surgery. Formula-fed infants should finish their feeding 6 hours prior.

Aftercare

Immediate care after surgery depends on the level of sedation. For instance, there are no residual effects of nitrous oxide sedation whatsoever. The patient simply feels as though he/she is waking from a dream.

This is also true of IV sedation. Although, oral/IV sedation may have mild side effects, such as nausea.

In contrast, oral sedatives have to run their course. The amount of time before they wear off depends on the type/amount given. In any case, the patient should not drive until the effects are completely gone.

Once these sedatives wear off, some patients experience post-surgery pain. Thus, the surgeon might prescribe pain medication and provide some before the patient leaves. 

Patients should not drive under the influence of certain pain medications, either. Vicodin, for example, can cause drowsiness and other side effects that impair driving ability.

Find Out More About Oral Surgery With Sedation

We hope this guide has eased your concerns about sedation at the dentist. If you still have more questions, we’re here for you.

Call our office at (310) 315-1034 to find out more about your oral surgery sedation options. Or, book your exam right now so you can speak with us directly.

The post Sedation Dentistry and Oral Surgery: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

source https://santamonicaoms.com/2022/04/13/sedation-dentistry-and-oral-surgery-everything-you-need-to-know/

source https://santamonicaoms1.tumblr.com/post/681569735626883072

Almost 24% of people around the world have a fear of the dentist. Are you a little worried about your upcoming oral surgery? Most first-time patients are, especially when the procedure involves sedation.

The biggest concern is whether or not sedation at the dentist is safe. Specifically, are there any possible dangers you should worry about? The good news is, that there’s virtually no risk involved with sedation dentistry.

Still, patients also wonder, “How long does oral surgery take?” And, for that matter, how long does the sedation last?

The answers largely depend on the type of sedation and the particular oral surgery procedure involved. Fortunately, we explain everything you need to know in this guide.

What follows is a complete overview of oral surgery with sedation. Read on to put your mind at ease.

What Is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation means that the dentist or oral surgeon administers drugs to put the patient into a deeply relaxed state. There are different levels of sedation used for oral surgery.

Minimal sedation means that the patient is fully awake but very relaxed. Moderate sedation has added effects, such as slurred speech and no memory of the procedure.

Deep sedation means that the patient is almost asleep but still conscious and aware. General anesthesia renders the patient fully unconscious.

Which Patients Need Sedation Dentistry?

Not all patients require sedation for oral surgery. But it’s usually recommended for patients who have:

• Fear, anxiety, or phobia about dental procedures
• Fear, anxiety, or phobia about needles
• A claustrophobic fear of being confined to the chair for the procedure
• A hypersensitive gag reflex
• Very sensitive teeth
• An above-average immunity to local anesthesia
• Symptoms of certain medical conditions/special needs that may interfere with the procedure

Put simply, sedation is used to keep the patient calm and compliant so that the oral surgeon can perform the surgery.

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

Here, we list the different types of sedation used for oral surgery. This list describes how each sedative is administered and how long it lasts. It’s also helpful to ask your surgeon (before surgery) which sedative they’ll use for your particular procedure. 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is combined with oxygen and inhaled through the lungs. Thus, it’s a great option for patients who don’t like needles or pills.

Nitrous oxide tends to have a happy and euphoric effect on patients. The sedated patient is still aware of the procedure. But they won’t feel it and they may not remember it.

These effects happen within minutes however, they fade quickly once the gas is stopped. Therefore, nitrous oxide is administered continuously throughout the duration of the procedure.

Oral Sedatives

The dentist may offer oral medication to sedate the patient. It takes about 20 minutes for these sedatives to take effect. And the effects can last for over an hour.

Patients sedated this way may be drowsy. But they’re usually kept awake during surgery. Additionally, these patients are asked not to consume any food or drinks before the surgery.

Intravenous Sedatives

Intravenous sedatives are only ideal for very long procedures. The effects are instant and administered continuously. This allows the surgeon to control the exact level of sedation at all times.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is the last resort for patients who will not or cannot remain calm and still any other way. Anesthetized patients will be unconscious and completely unaware of the procedure.

While complications are rare, this method poses a slight risk of danger to the patient. Conversely, the other methods do not.

Preparing the Patient/Yourself For Oral Surgery

For specific instructions, ask your surgeon how you or your loved one should prepare for oral surgery with sedation. Here, however, we describe some general instructions.

Emotional Preparation/Support

If the surgery is for your child, you’ll know best how to comfort him/her. For example, ask the surgeon if your child can hold their favorite toy/stuffed animal during the surgery.

Also, some children feel better knowing the details of the procedure. Use discretion and explain the procedure to the child, if it helps. During the procedure, speak to and touch the child (when allowed), keeping his/her focus on you.

On the other hand, if you are the patient, recruit a loved one to comfort you in these ways. 

General Instructions/Safeguards

For nitrous oxide sedation, patients may consume a light meal beforehand. Other types of sedation have more strict requirements. Specifically, no food or drinks are allowed after midnight on the day of the procedure.

Typically, however, clear drinks like water or apple juice are allowed before the surgery. This includes any translucent beverage with no solids in it (namely, pulp).

As such, milk, coffee, and orange juice are not allowed. Artificial/sugary drinks like soda aren’t okay, either. Regardless of these general guidelines, though, please get specific instructions from your surgeon. 

Instructions For Infants Younger Than 12 Months

Babies younger than 12 months may sometimes require oral surgery. These patients should be fed within 4-6 hours before surgery. Formula-fed infants should finish their feeding 6 hours prior.

Aftercare

Immediate care after surgery depends on the level of sedation. For instance, there are no residual effects of nitrous oxide sedation whatsoever. The patient simply feels as though he/she is waking from a dream.

This is also true of IV sedation. Although, oral/IV sedation may have mild side effects, such as nausea.

In contrast, oral sedatives have to run their course. The amount of time before they wear off depends on the type/amount given. In any case, the patient should not drive until the effects are completely gone.

Once these sedatives wear off, some patients experience post-surgery pain. Thus, the surgeon might prescribe pain medication and provide some before the patient leaves. 

Patients should not drive under the influence of certain pain medications, either. Vicodin, for example, can cause drowsiness and other side effects that impair driving ability.

Find Out More About Oral Surgery With Sedation

We hope this guide has eased your concerns about sedation at the dentist. If you still have more questions, we’re here for you.

Call our office at (310) 315-1034 to find out more about your oral surgery sedation options. Or, book your exam right now so you can speak with us directly.

The post Sedation Dentistry and Oral Surgery: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

source https://santamonicaoms.com/2022/04/13/sedation-dentistry-and-oral-surgery-everything-you-need-to-know%ef%bf%bc/

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Roughly 120 million people in the United States have at least one missing tooth. Another 36 million people have no teeth at all. 

As you can imagine, missing one or more teeth can be a challenging reality. Everyday tasks such as chewing food and pronouncing certain words can quickly become a challenge. In addition, it can take the shine out of your smile.

The good news is that there’s a perfect solution for missing teeth. Dental implants can instantly restore your dental appearance, making it a joy to smile again. It’s no wonder that 500,000 Americans get dental implants each year.

To reap the full benefits of dental implants, there are certain things you need to do following the procedure. These simple things help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

In this blog post, we will discuss post-implant care tips that will help you recover quickly and avoid any potential complications.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Post-operation, it is highly recommended to not do any of your routine oral hygiene such as brushing or flossing. You want to avoid this the day/night of your surgery because it can affect the healing process. The following day,  continue your normal brushing but make sure to be sensitive and gentle around your implant. Proper oral hygiene is important after post-surgery to ensure healing and prevent infection. 

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. You may also want to use an antibacterial mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.

Avoid Potentially Harmful Foods and Drinks

Another dental care tip for people who’ve just gotten implants is to ditch potentially harmful foods and drinks. For a few days following surgery, it is imperative to avoid crunchy, spicy, hot temperature foods as well as alcohol and tobacco products because these can negatively affect the implant and create complications in the healing process. 

Cutting these things out of your diet will help you recover quickly and reduce your risk of complications.

Foods You Can Safely Enjoy 

Following your surgery, your mouth will most likely be sore which is normal and expected. To avoid further pain or strain on your teeth, eating soft foods is important. Things such as smoothies, soft fruits, room temperature soups, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese, oatmeal, yogurts, mashed potatoes, and other pureed vegetables are all great options. 

A balanced diet is important for dental implant healing, so be sure to consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Understand How to Deal With Bleeding

Following the dental implant procedure, you may notice some bleeding from your gums. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about.

If you experience bleeding, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid flossing around the implant site for the first week or two. If the bleeding persists or gets worse, then contact your surgeon right away.

Tackle Any Swelling

You may also experience some swelling after dental implant surgery which is normal and will usually go away within a few days.

To help reduce the swelling, apply a cold compress to your face for 20 minutes at a time. You can do this several times a day as needed. Just be sure not to put the ice directly on your skin, as this could cause frostbite.

If the swelling persists or gets worse, see your surgeon right away.

Deal With the Pain

Some patients may experience pain and discomfort after dental implant surgery, but this is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

If you’re in a lot of pain, contact your surgeon to see if they can prescribe something stronger. The pain should go away within a week or two in most cases.

Take Prescribed Medications

It’s not unusual for your surgeon to prescribe antibiotics after dental implant surgery to help prevent infection. Be sure to take the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed and follow all other instructions from your surgeon. 

Note that you may experience some side effects from taking antibiotics, such as nausea, diarrhea, or a rash. If you do stop taking the medication and contact your surgeon or general doctor right away.

Slow Down on Physical Exercise

If you’re an avid exerciser, you’ll need to take it easy for a few weeks after dental implant surgery. Avoid strenuous physical activity and give your body time to heal.

Walking is a great way to get some exercise without putting too much strain on your implants. Be sure to listen to your body and take things at a slow and steady pace.

Make Follow-up Dental Visits

Following your dental implant procedure, you’ll need to make several follow-up visits. These appointments are important as they allow your surgeon to check on your progress and make sure that everything is healing properly.

Be sure to keep all of your follow-up dental appointments and call your surgeon’s office right away if you have any concerns or problems.

Use Your Implants Correctly

Due to their metal composition, dental implants tend to be stronger than natural teeth. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re indestructible. If you use them incorrectly, they’ll eventually fail.

Be sure to avoid biting your nails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools. This will only damage your implants. Instead, use your implants only for chewing food.

Treat Your Dental Implants Well for Fast Recovery

Dental implant surgery is a relatively minor procedure, but it’s still important to take care of yourself afterward to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. By following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your dental implants will heal fully and quickly.

Are you considering dental implants and would like to see a reliable surgeon for the procedure? Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.

The post A Quick Guide to Dental Implant Aftercare appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

source https://santamonicaoms.com/2022/03/30/a-quick-guide-to-dental-implant-aftercare/

source https://santamonicaoms1.tumblr.com/post/680731670890053632

Roughly 120 million people in the United States have at least one missing tooth. Another 36 million people have no teeth at all. 

As you can imagine, missing one or more teeth can be a challenging reality. Everyday tasks such as chewing food and pronouncing certain words can quickly become a challenge. In addition, it can take the shine out of your smile.

The good news is that there’s a perfect solution for missing teeth. Dental implants can instantly restore your dental appearance, making it a joy to smile again. It’s no wonder that 500,000 Americans get dental implants each year.

To reap the full benefits of dental implants, there are certain things you need to do following the procedure. These simple things help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

In this blog post, we will discuss post-implant care tips that will help you recover quickly and avoid any potential complications.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Post-operation, it is highly recommended to not do any of your routine oral hygiene such as brushing or flossing. You want to avoid this the day/night of your surgery because it can affect the healing process. The following day,  continue your normal brushing but make sure to be sensitive and gentle around your implant. Proper oral hygiene is important after post-surgery to ensure healing and prevent infection. 

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. You may also want to use an antibacterial mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.

Avoid Potentially Harmful Foods and Drinks

Another dental care tip for people who’ve just gotten implants is to ditch potentially harmful foods and drinks. For a few days following surgery, it is imperative to avoid crunchy, spicy, hot temperature foods as well as alcohol and tobacco products because these can negatively affect the implant and create complications in the healing process. 

Cutting these things out of your diet will help you recover quickly and reduce your risk of complications.

Foods You Can Safely Enjoy 

Following your surgery, your mouth will most likely be sore which is normal and expected. To avoid further pain or strain on your teeth, eating soft foods is important. Things such as smoothies, soft fruits, room temperature soups, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese, oatmeal, yogurts, mashed potatoes, and other pureed vegetables are all great options. 

A balanced diet is important for dental implant healing, so be sure to consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Understand How to Deal With Bleeding

Following the dental implant procedure, you may notice some bleeding from your gums. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about.

If you experience bleeding, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid flossing around the implant site for the first week or two. If the bleeding persists or gets worse, then contact your surgeon right away.

Tackle Any Swelling

You may also experience some swelling after dental implant surgery which is normal and will usually go away within a few days.

To help reduce the swelling, apply a cold compress to your face for 20 minutes at a time. You can do this several times a day as needed. Just be sure not to put the ice directly on your skin, as this could cause frostbite.

If the swelling persists or gets worse, see your surgeon right away.

Deal With the Pain

Some patients may experience pain and discomfort after dental implant surgery, but this is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

If you’re in a lot of pain, contact your surgeon to see if they can prescribe something stronger. The pain should go away within a week or two in most cases.

Take Prescribed Medications

It’s not unusual for your surgeon to prescribe antibiotics after dental implant surgery to help prevent infection. Be sure to take the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed and follow all other instructions from your surgeon. 

Note that you may experience some side effects from taking antibiotics, such as nausea, diarrhea, or a rash. If you do stop taking the medication and contact your surgeon or general doctor right away.

Slow Down on Physical Exercise

If you’re an avid exerciser, you’ll need to take it easy for a few weeks after dental implant surgery. Avoid strenuous physical activity and give your body time to heal.

Walking is a great way to get some exercise without putting too much strain on your implants. Be sure to listen to your body and take things at a slow and steady pace.

Make Follow-up Dental Visits

Following your dental implant procedure, you’ll need to make several follow-up visits. These appointments are important as they allow your surgeon to check on your progress and make sure that everything is healing properly.

Be sure to keep all of your follow-up dental appointments and call your surgeon’s office right away if you have any concerns or problems.

Use Your Implants Correctly

Due to their metal composition, dental implants tend to be stronger than natural teeth. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re indestructible. If you use them incorrectly, they’ll eventually fail.

Be sure to avoid biting your nails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools. This will only damage your implants. Instead, use your implants only for chewing food.

Treat Your Dental Implants Well for Fast Recovery

Dental implant surgery is a relatively minor procedure, but it’s still important to take care of yourself afterward to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. By following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your dental implants will heal fully and quickly.

Are you considering dental implants and would like to see a reliable surgeon for the procedure? Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.

The post A Quick Guide to Dental Implant Aftercare appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

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Roughly 120 million people in the United States have at least one missing tooth. Another 36 million people have no teeth at all. As you can imagine, missing one or more teeth can be a challenging reality. Everyday tasks such as chewing food and pronouncing certain words can quickly become a challenge. In addition, it can take the shine out of your smile. The good news is that there’s a perfect solution for missing teeth. Dental implants can instantly restore your dental appearance, making it a joy to smile again.

It’s no wonder that 500,000 Americans get dental implants each year.

To reap the full benefits of dental implants, there are certain things you need to do following the procedure. These simple things help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

In this blog post, we will discuss post-implant care tips that will help you recover quickly and avoid any potential complications.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Post-operation, it is highly recommended to not do any of your routine oral hygiene such as brushing or flossing. You want to avoid this the day/night of your surgery because it can affect the healing process. The following day,  continue your normal brushing but make sure to be sensitive and gentle around your implant. Proper oral hygiene is important after post-surgery to ensure healing and prevent infection. 

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. You may also want to use an antibacterial mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.

Avoid Potentially Harmful Foods and Drinks

Another dental care tip for people who’ve just gotten implants is to ditch potentially harmful foods and drinks. For a few days following surgery, it is imperative to avoid crunchy, spicy, hot temperature foods as well as alcohol and tobacco products because these can negatively affect the implant and create complications in the healing process. 

Cutting these things out of your diet will help you recover quickly and reduce your risk of complications.

Foods You Can Safely Enjoy 

Following your surgery, your mouth will most likely be sore which is normal and expected. To avoid further pain or strain on your teeth, eating soft foods is important. Things such as smoothies, soft fruits, room temperature soups, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese, oatmeal, yogurts, mashed potatoes, and other pureed vegetables are all great options. 

A balanced diet is important for dental implant healing, so be sure to consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Understand How to Deal With Bleeding

Following the dental implant procedure, you may notice some bleeding from your gums. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about.

If you experience bleeding, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid flossing around the implant site for the first week or two. If the bleeding persists or gets worse, then contact your surgeon right away.

Tackle Any Swelling

You may also experience some swelling after dental implant surgery which is normal and will usually go away within a few days.

To help reduce the swelling, apply a cold compress to your face for 20 minutes at a time. You can do this several times a day as needed. Just be sure not to put the ice directly on your skin, as this could cause frostbite.

If the swelling persists or gets worse, see your surgeon right away.

Deal With the Pain

Some patients may experience pain and discomfort after dental implant surgery, but this is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

If you’re in a lot of pain, contact your surgeon to see if they can prescribe something stronger. The pain should go away within a week or two in most cases.

Take Prescribed Medications

It’s not unusual for your surgeon to prescribe antibiotics after dental implant surgery to help prevent infection. Be sure to take the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed and follow all other instructions from your surgeon. 

Note that you may experience some side effects from taking antibiotics, such as nausea, diarrhea, or a rash. If you do stop taking the medication and contact your surgeon or general doctor right away.

Slow Down on Physical Exercise

If you’re an avid exerciser, you’ll need to take it easy for a few weeks after dental implant surgery. Avoid strenuous physical activity and give your body time to heal.

Walking is a great way to get some exercise without putting too much strain on your implants. Be sure to listen to your body and take things at a slow and steady pace.

Make Follow-up Dental Visits

Following your dental implant procedure, you’ll need to make several follow-up visits. These appointments are important as they allow your surgeon to check on your progress and make sure that everything is healing properly.

Be sure to keep all of your follow-up dental appointments and call your surgeon’s office right away if you have any concerns or problems.

Use Your Implants Correctly

Due to their metal composition, dental implants tend to be stronger than natural teeth. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re indestructible. If you use them incorrectly, they’ll eventually fail.

Be sure to avoid biting your nails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools. This will only damage your implants. Instead, use your implants only for chewing food.

Treat Your Dental Implants Well for Fast Recovery

Dental implant surgery is a relatively minor procedure, but it’s still important to take care of yourself afterward to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. By following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your dental implants will heal fully and quickly.

Are you considering dental implants and would like to see a reliable surgeon for the procedure? Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.

The post How to Care for Your New Dental Implants appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

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Are you wondering what the fastest, most convenient way to get dental implants is? If you’re missing multiple teeth, chances are you’re eager to undergo oral surgery and have them restored. The appearance of your teeth affects so many aspects of life, in ways you would not have expected.

Multiple broken or missing teeth can make eating difficult. They can make speaking normally impossible. And worst of all, broken or missing teeth can make you feel embarrassed to smile.

Fortunately, there is a clear way forward and with modern, state-of-the-art dental technology, it does not have to take any longer than one day.

In this article, we’re going to go over the Teeth-In-A-Day dental procedure. We will explain what the Teeth-In-A-Day procedure is and how it’s different from traditional implants, then discuss six major benefits of Teeth-In-A-Day.

To discover how you might be able to restore your smile and get back to life as usual quickly with Teeth-In-A-Day, keep reading.

What Is the Teeth-In-A-Day Process?

Teeth-In-A-Day are customized dental implants that restore full sets of upper or lower teeth. The process is ideal for those with severe damage to several of their teeth, or those who need to have all their natural teeth removed.

Teeth-In-A-Day uses all-on-four technology to restore full sets of teeth quickly.

With All-on-four teeth, a full set of teeth is fastened to just four implants. In traditional implant procedures, there must be multiple implants to replace a full set of teeth. The Teeth-In-A-Day process with all-on-four technology is much less extensive.

Five Benefits of Teeth-In-A-Day

Now that you have a basic idea of what Teeth-In-A-Day is, let’s talk about the procedure’s benefits. Read on for more details about Teeth-In-A-Day.

1. Faster Than Traditional Implants

Traditional teeth implants are done over a period of between six months and one year. Sometimes they take even longer. This is because you may need bone grafting first after your teeth are extracted and before the implants can be placed.

The procedures involved in traditional multiple implants can be much more time-consuming than Teeth-In-A-Day implants.

With Teeth-In-A-Day, you will get a working set of temporary teeth on day one. Then, your new permanent teeth should be ready to implant within a few months.

2. Only Four Implants Are Required

Teeth-In-A-Day is for people who need to replace multiple teeth. With traditional implants, these people had no option but to get a separate implant for each tooth.

But with the all-on-four process, an entire arch of teeth is replaced with just four implants. This means the surgery is less severe, resulting in less discomfort and less time required to heal.

With traditional implants, multiple surgeries and bone grafting to prepare for the implants are typically necessary. But since only four implants are needed for Teeth-In-A-Day, bone grafting is usually unnecessary.

3. A More Comfortable Experience

As we have touched on a few times, the innovative Teeth-In-A-Day process is considerably more comfortable than traditional alternatives. Increased comfort is one of the procedure’s biggest advantages.

For one thing, the entire surgical procedure is completed in a single day. There is no time spent waiting between surgeries.

And in dental offices like Santa Monica Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, your comfort and relaxation are our priority. Learn more about our state-of-the-art office here.

4. Gives You a Smile to Feel Proud Of

When it’s all said and done, what matters most is that your new dental implants allow you to live your life in comfort and confidence. Besides having functional teeth, you need to feel good about the way your new smile looks.

Teeth-In-A-Day can give you that confident smile in less time than ever before. You do not have to wait long—from the very first day, you will be able to speak and interact normally with a healthy-looking smile.

5. You Get Back to Life as Usual Quickly

Although a procedure’s end results are always what matter most, for most people time is a critical issue too.

The great news is, with Teeth-In-A-Day, you can be back to normal in no time. It’s a convenient, noninvasive, and fast procedure that can give you a smile to feel proud of in a matter of hours.

Learn About Oral Surgery and Find the Right Options for You

Teeth-In-A-Day is an innovative and convenient oral surgery with many benefits over traditional implants. But where can you go? 

For residents in or near the West Los Angeles area, Santa Monica Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is an obvious choice.

Besides being the oldest practice in West LA, we incorporate the latest forefront surgical technology to improve every aspect of your experience and recovery. We are members of the California Dental Association, and our patients tell us that our communication and execution are unmatched.

To discover the best oral surgery options for you, visit us today.

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Before the development of dental implants, tooth loss could only be addressed using prosthetics like dentures and bridges. Unlike traditional prosthetics, implants are placed in the jawbone and function like natural tooth roots. With a global market value of nearly $4 billion, dental implants have become a popular solution for tooth loss. 

If the thought of extensive oral surgery keeps you from enjoying a new smile, you may be a great candidate for all-on-4 dental implants. In this article, we’ll explore the all-on-4 process and whether you are a good candidate for the advanced treatment.

Are You a Candidate?

If you are missing an entire arch of teeth, you are likely a great candidate for All-on-4 dental implants. The advanced implants support a 12 or 14-tooth denture that restores form and function to your smile.

Initial Consultation 

Our esteemed doctors will listen to your personal goals and perform an exam to determine if you are a candidate for this advanced dental implant solution.

Exam and X-rays

Candidates should be in good oral health and free from jawbone atrophy. Our doctors use x-rays, or 3D CT scans to look for signs of jawbone loss. Candidates who have lost extensive jawbone mass may be required to undergo sinus lift surgery or another procedure to augment their jawbone. 

Alternate Treatment Options

If you are missing one tooth or a few adjacent teeth, you may be a better candidate for a bridge or a partial denture. Whatever your tooth loss needs are, one of our doctors can describe your treatment options. All of our patients benefit from cutting-edge surgical technology and classic patient-centered care.

How Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Work?

Implant-retained dentures typically require several implants. Each implant has to be surgically placed in the jaw. All-on-4 implants work differently. 

Fewer Dental Implants 

All-on-4 dental implants support a denture and only require the placement of four dental implants. Fewer implants mean a quicker recovery and lower risk of side effects following treatment. Fewer implants can also mean a lower overall treatment cost. 

Incredible Stability

Our surgeon will place two implants near the front of your jaw and two implants near the rear of your jaw.

The All-on-4 treatment allows one of our doctors to angle the implants in a manner that maximizes available jawbone space. This allows the prosthetic to be fully supported, so it doesn’t shift.

Ideal Treatment Following Bone Loss 

The All-on-4 option also allows one of our doctors to strategically place the implants in areas where jawbone density is highest. This can be a great option for people who have suffered jaw bone atrophy. Following tooth loss, it is natural for the bone that supported a tooth to be reabsorbed. 

All-on-4 implants are also ideal for people who have close anatomical features. New implants offer a safer alternative for these patients.  

Teeth In a Day

You may have heard the term “teeth in a day” associated with this treatment. Following the surgical placement of four implants, you can be immediately fitted with an implant-supported denture.

Traditional dental implant treatments require patients to wait months before they can finally be fitted with implants. Sometimes, extra follow-up surgeries to attach abutments are needed. With the All-on-4 treatment option, you can skip those extra steps and go straight to enjoying the benefits of an implant-supported denture.  

Treatment Overview

Although you will require fewer dental implants, oral surgery is still required for you to enjoy the benefits of gaining all-on-four teeth. Once one of our doctors creates a custom treatment plan, a date will be set for your oral surgery. 

Once your oral surgery has been carefully planned, you’ll arrive at our office, where you’ll be directed to the surgical room.

Sedation Dentistry

Our doctors are Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and they care about your comfort. That is why we offer sedation dentistry to help patients relax or even sleep during dental procedures for painless dental care.

Oral Surgery

Once you feel relaxed and comfortable, one of our doctors will remove any remaining teeth. The next step involves the placement of the implants.

One of our surgeons will place your implants. Your doctor will attach a special device called an abutment to the top of the implant. The abutment connects the implant to the denture. 

Our doctor will make an incision in the gums and will place an implant in the jawbone. Once They have placed all four implants, they will then attach your implant-supported denture. Someone from our team will walk you down from our office with your brand new set of teeth.

Recovery from Surgery   

There will still be a recovery period. During your initial recovery, you may experience minor side effects. You will be given recovery guidelines that should be closely followed. 

Long-term recovery takes three to six months. During that time, your implants will fuse with the surrounding jawbone through a natural process called osseointegration. 

Schedule Your Dental Implant Surgery Today

Our patients tell us that they feel heard by our staff. Our team has a reputation for giving patients the best experience every time they step into our office. If you are looking for a dental surgical team that goes above and beyond every time, you should consider working with Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants.

Our surgeons specialize in surgically placing all-on-4 dental implants. To schedule your oral surgery consultation, contact our office today. 

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Did you know that by the age of 17, around 7% of people have lost a tooth to decay? If you’re missing one or more teeth, you might find it difficult to speak or eat. As a result, you might experience a decrease in self-confidence. If you’re missing any amount of teeth, you deserve to receive quality dental care. One option is dentures. There are different types of dentures that you can choose from that will address your unique needs. 

This guide will go over what you need to know about dentures and where you can find a qualified dental care specialist. 

Full or Complete Dentures

Full or complete dentures are traditional, full-coverage dentures. This type of denture will replace your entire lower or upper arch of missing or damaged teeth. 

Your oral surgeon will start by extracting any remaining teeth. Then, your dental specialist will start with a plastic base to prepare complete dentures for you. This supports a full set of porcelain or plastic teeth. 

The dentist will then use bone grafting or a sealant to hold the dentures in your mouth. Full dentures can also be held in place by dental implants. 

Complete dentures are entirely customizable. They help restore the look and shape of your natural teeth. This type of denture also helps you chew and grind teeth as you would with natural teeth. 

The average candidate for full dentures are those who are elderly or people who have lost all of their teeth. With full dentures, you’ll achieve a more youthful appearance and a healthier smile. 

Partial Dentures

Partial, or removable dentures work to restore the functionality of your jaw by replacing missing teeth. 

Your dental specialist will create a metal framework or plastic base for your partial dentures. This is then held in place by multiple clasps. The dentures rest around your remaining teeth. 

Partial dentures are typically recommended for patients that can’t receive an implant-supported bridge. They’re easy to remove when it comes time to clean them.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

Another name for All-On-Four dental is “full arch dental implant bridges.” Four screws are placed into the jawbone and gums and left to heal sufficiently before the implant bridge can be secured in place. Once implanted, the bridge will never need to be removed and will resemble the appearance of your natural teeth.

As with all dental implants, All-On-Four dental implants are placed during an outpatient surgical procedure with an oral surgeon. Most patients will want to take advantage of some sort of sedation for this procedure, in addition to the local anesthetic that will be used.

Before leaving Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery and Dental Implants, patients are typically fitted with a comfortable set of “fixed” temporary teeth. After the implants have fully healed with the bone (which can take up to 4 months), the patient will receive a permanent new set of teeth from their general dentist.

Traditional approaches to restoring a full arch of teeth (upper jaw or lower jaw, or both) usually involve six or more dental implants and as many as 18 months of treatment. This approach typically requires a patient to often be without any teeth or with ill-fitting temporary dentures for more than a year.

All-On-Four implants are more stable and secure and function just like natural teeth.

What Are the Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants?

The technology behind dentures and All-on-4 implants has evolved over the years. They’re designed to be comfortable while helping you smile, chew, and look confident. 

After surgery, your dentist might give you a list of certain foods to eat in moderation to increase the longevity of your dentures. Once your dental implants are fully integrated,  you won’t have any restrictions on the food you eat. You can eat all the food you love with a restored smile.

All-on-4 implants also work to increase the support in your facial muscles. The bone structure in your mouth can deteriorate if you have missing teeth. Dentures will improve the rate of disintegration of the bones in your mouth and alleviate some of the wear and tear on your remaining teeth. Chewing with dentures on will equally distribute the pressure throughout your entire mouth. 

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a screw-like device that gets inserted into your jawbone. The screws function like artificial tooth roots and are typically made from titanium.

Once the implant is secured into the jawbone, a crown is placed on top. 

Implant Supported Dental Bridges

Implant supported dental bridges are permanent and replace one or more missing teeth. It’s comprised a dental implant, to replace both the lost natural tooth and its root, and a crown that is formed to fit into the open spaces in your mouth where your teeth used to be. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Dentures?

Patients who have significant tooth loss are good candidates for dentures. Receiving false teeth isn’t dependent on your age. The quality and condition of your teeth are the primary consideration point. 

Another thing to keep in mind is if you have healthy gum tissue and a good amount of jawbone. Dentures need support from your mouth’s natural teeth so they can stay in place for a long period of time. 

How Do I Choose the Right Dentist for Me?

There are many options for dentures and other tooth restoration procedures. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out what’s best for you. That’s why making an appointment at a dentist and oral surgery office is important. 

At Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery and Dental Implants, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy and flawless smile. We’ll welcome you into our calm and relaxing office space. Our innovative treatments help our patients reach their goals, no matter the health of their smile. 

Our services are unique because we incorporate the innovation of cutting-edge surgical technology with classic patient-centered care. Make an appointment with us today to learn more about our services. 

Learn About Different Types of Dentures

Our dental care staff is ready to help you discuss the various types of dentures. We’ll create a customized treatment plan that has your needs and goals in mind. We can’t wait to give you high-quality and professional dental care services. 

The post Your Smile Guide to Types of Dentures and How to Choose Between Them appeared first on Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery.

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