(954) 589-0292
Advanced Oral Surgery Solutions for Your Health and Smile
If you require oral surgery, call (954) 589-0292 to schedule an appointment at our Fort Lauderdale dental office. At Smiland Dental Fort Lauderdale, we offer the surgical procedures necessary to maintain or restore your oral health. Not all dentists perform surgical procedures, so whether you're looking for a new dentist or need more advanced care from your current provider, we are here to help. We will assess your dental condition, provide guidance on whether surgery is needed, recommend the best procedure for you, and explain what to expect throughout the process. Feel free to ask any questions to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared. In the meantime, here are some frequently asked questions from our Fort Lauderdale patients.
Why Do People Get Oral Surgery?
There are three main reasons why oral surgery may be necessary. The first is for your health. Tooth decay is very common, and when you visit the dentist regularly, it can be detected and treated early, preventing discomfort or the spread of infection. Unfortunately, many people avoid regular dental visits, allowing decay to progress, sometimes to the point where the tooth must be extracted. In some cases, a root canal may save the tooth, but prompt care is essential to relieve pain and prevent further damage. Oral surgery may also be needed to address gum issues, such as gum disease or gum recession, in which cases a surgical gum graft may be required.
The second reason we perform oral surgery is to remove wisdom teeth. While they don’t always present an immediate health risk, impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort. Removing them can prevent future infections and stop them from crowding or shifting other teeth.
Lastly, some of our Fort Lauderdale patients require oral surgery for cosmetic reasons, primarily to replace missing teeth with dental implants. Implants are the most secure and long-lasting solution for tooth loss, as they replace both the tooth and its root. A titanium post is placed under the gums and fused to the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This ensures the implant is as stable as a natural tooth. Once the fusion process is complete, a new tooth is placed on the implant. For more information on dental implants or to schedule a consultation, call (954) 589-0292.
Is Oral Surgery Used With Orthodontics?
Yes, orthodontists often address overcrowding when straightening teeth. To create space in the mouth, certain procedures may be used, including the extraction of teeth. While not always required, some orthodontists may recommend removing one or more teeth as part of the treatment plan. Additionally, orthodontists focus on jaw alignment, and issues like overbites and underbites can typically be treated without surgery. However, in more severe cases, oral surgery may be necessary to adjust the jaw position. Whether oral surgery is needed as part of your orthodontic treatment will be discussed during your initial consultation.
How Do I Prepare for Oral Surgery?
At Smiland Dental Fort Lauderdale, we prioritize your comfort throughout the procedure and aim to ensure you feel fully prepared. We believe in educating our patients and will walk you through the procedure step by step. Since every patient and surgery is unique, the information here is general, and we will take time to discuss the details with you individually. Generally, you’ll need to refrain from eating for a few hours before the procedure (possibly starting the night before), especially if anesthesia will be used. We also suggest preparing by purchasing ice packs and soft foods, stocking up on water, and having any items you may need to relax and stay comfortable, such as ibuprofen.
Can You Provide Me With Oral Surgery if I Am Currently Being Treated by Another Dentist?
Yes, we can assist you. When you visit our Fort Lauderdale dental office, please let us know if you're currently under the care of another dentist who has recommended oral surgery. Not all dentists perform surgery, so if you'd like to continue treatment with your current dentist after the procedure, you're welcome to do so. Alternatively, we would be happy to welcome you as a new patient to our practice.
What is the Recovery Like From Oral Surgery?
The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Generally, you can expect some temporary bleeding, which can be controlled using the gauze we provide. Swelling is also common and is often the main source of discomfort. To manage swelling, apply an ice pack to your face for 15 minutes at a time, then rest for 15 minutes before reapplying. Be sure to use a cloth to protect your skin from irritation. Along with the ice, we recommend taking ibuprofen to help minimize swelling and discomfort. Ice should typically be used for the first day or two, while ibuprofen may be needed for about a week. At Smiland Dental Fort Lauderdale, we may also prescribe antibiotics to help prevent infection. For food, stick to soft items that are easy to eat, like soup or steamed vegetables. It’s a good idea to have these on hand before your surgery to make recovery easier. Most importantly, take it easy and avoid pushing yourself. Follow our post-surgery instructions closely to avoid irritating the surgical site.