Monday, November 14, 2016

How Wisdom Teeth Extraction Works

Wisdom Teeth ExtractionWhen patients need a wisdom teeth extraction, it can be intimidating. According to the University of Washington's Dental Fears Research Clinic, 75 percent of adults harbor some level of fear over having a dental procedure completed. Fortunately, we are very experienced at removing teeth and can make sure that the entire process goes smoothly with as little pain as possible.
All dentists can remove teeth, but only certain dentists are experienced enough to go by the title of an oral surgeon. When a wisdom tooth breaks through the surface, there is a chance that a normal dentist can pull it out. If it is impacted or still below the surface, patients need to see an oral surgeon instead of a traditional dentist.

We understand how to make the process of a wisdom teeth extraction as painless as possible. An inexperienced dentist can take longer to remove the impacted tooth and cause the patient unnecessary swelling and pain.

If your tooth is impacted, the wisdom teeth extraction will typically have the following process:
  • We will thoroughly clean the teeth and gums. It is important to remove any lingering bacteria and plaque from the mouth prior to undergoing oral surgery or any cosmetic procedures. Following a cleaning, we will put the patient under sedation, so that he or she does not feel any pain.
  • We then cut open the gum. The gum tissue above the wisdom tooth will be cut open and lifted so that we can access the area.
  • We will remove any small parts of bone in the way. At times when the gum tissue is opened up, there will be bone above part of the tooth. We may need to remove the piece of bone in order to extract the tooth.
  • We may wiggle the tooth to ease it out of the socket. Using a dental tool, we will grasp the tooth and gently move it back and forth to see if it will easily come loose from the bone and ligaments that are holding it in place.
  • We may need to break up the tooth. When a tooth is not responding, it may need to be broken or cut up into smaller pieces and removed one piece at a time.
  • Removal and cleaning. After completely removing the tooth, we will thoroughly clean the area and the area in order to prevent any sort of infection.
  • We will replace the gum tissue. We will lay the gum tissue back down and use stitches, if necessary, to hold everything in place and promote healing.
  • We will use gauze to stop the bleeding. We will hold gauze in place to help and stop the bleeding. Eventually, the body will form a blood clot so that this is no longer necessary.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Green Brook Township

After a wisdom teeth extraction takes place, there is a necessary  recovery process. It can take a couple of weeks to feel completely normal. During the timeframe of the recovery process, most patients experience some level of swelling. Ice packs and pain medication can assist and make patients feel more comfortable. Patients need to consume foods that are soft and cool during this time frame. Things with extreme temperatures may cause pain, so it is safe to stick with Jello, applesauce, pudding, yogurt and other soft foods. To learn more or to schedule an appointment call today.
Live in Green Brook Township, NJ and have questions about wisdom teeth extraction? Give us a call at (732) 424-8483.



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Tuesday, November 1, 2016

A Dentist Answers Frequently Asked Dentistry Questions

DentistAs a dentist in Green Brook Township , there are certain questions that people ask on a regular basis. We want to inform our patients and will answer any questions that you may have so that you can make an educated decision about your oral health care. By discussing procedures in detail, we are confident that you will feel better about any upcoming procedure. Since many of our patients have similar questions and concerns, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Does dental work hurt?

With millions of people suffering from dental anxiety, this question is often on the top of our patient's list. The good news is that dental care does not hurt when you visit our office. We have a variety of ways to help calm your nerves. One way is to provide pain medication so that you can relax and feel comfortable, regardless of whether your teeth are being cleaned or you are having major dental work done.

How quickly will I recover?

Most dental procedures have a short recovery time. For example, after treating your cavity, you will most likely feel better later that day. If you are having something major, like oral surgery, the recovery time can be several days. We will go over specifics of the recovery process during your consultation. As a local dentist, we do remind patients that regardless of what procedure is being performed, you can speed up the recovery by not touching the site, rinsing your mouth regularly, and preventing anything from touching that area until it is fully recovered. Avoiding strenuous activity is also important.

Why do I need to have my crown replaced?

Many people are under the impression that once a crown or another restoration is placed, it will remain there forever. While this would be nice, it is simply not the case. A restoration can wear out just like anything can. It is easy for a restoration to become chipped, for example, if you grind your teeth at night. Simultaneously, if you are repeatedly getting infections, this will put your restoration at risk. The best thing, you can do, is to keep your teeth and gums in good health and have regular teeth cleanings in order to prolong the lifespan of your restoration. If it does become worn out, you need to replace it so that your damaged tooth can continue to be protected.

Dentist in Green Brook Township

Which dentist's opinion is right?

When patients visit more than one dentist it can lead to confusion. Dentistry, like many things, gives a provider several options for how to proceed. For example, if your tooth has fallen out you can replace it using dentures, a dental bridge, or a dental implant. All are correct options, and the one that you select is really up to your lifestyle and goals. Each dentist may have a preferred procedure based on their skill set but what you select is entirely up to you. As a local dentist, we believe that it is important to present the facts and let our patients evaluate which solution is right for them.
Live in Green Brook Township, NJ and have questions for a dentist? Give us a call at (732) 424-8483.



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