Oral Surgery – East Valley, On The Border of Mesa & Gilbert

At Elite Smiles, we offer a range of oral surgery services to meet the needs of our patients in East Valley, on the border of Mesa/Gilbert. Our skilled and experienced team is dedicated to providing high-quality care and ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

What is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral surgery refers to various surgical procedures performed in or around the mouth and jaw by dental specialists. It includes tooth extractions, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery (also called orthognathic surgery). Common oral surgeries include wisdom teeth removal, bone grafts, and gum grafts. These treatments address both functional and cosmetic issues affecting the mouth, jaws, face, head, and neck.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a recognized specialty within dentistry and medicine. Organizations such as the American Dental Association and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons set standards and certification. Dental specialists—including oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists, and endodontists—perform various oral surgery procedures. Proper diagnosis by dental professionals is essential to determine when a surgical procedure by a specialist is needed.

Conditions like TMJ disorders, impacted teeth, and jaw misalignments are treated with specific surgeries. For example, tooth extractions may be necessary for impacted teeth or other teeth such as cuspids and bicuspids. Untreated impacted teeth can cause permanent damage to adjacent teeth, bone, or facial structures. Dental implants require healthy bone for successful placement, and bone grafts may be used if needed. Some procedures involve the soft tissues of the mouth, oropharynx, and upper airway.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat the anatomical areas of the mouth, jaws, face, head, and neck. Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is recommended by doctors for severe jaw misalignments. These misalignments affect speech, chewing, swallowing, and breathing. TMJ disorders may also require surgical intervention. Jaw misalignments can impact swallowing, speech, and chewing.

Medication is often used for pain relief and inflammation before or after surgery. Local anesthesia is a common technique to numb specific areas during procedures. Other anesthesia options may also be used. Oral surgery procedures are performed by highly trained doctors, often with both dental and medical backgrounds. Your dentist or oral surgeon will explain treatment options and recommendations.

Qualifications and Training

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a highly specialized field requiring years of advanced education and hands-on experience. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons begin by earning a dental degree. They then complete an intensive residency program in maxillofacial surgery lasting four to six years. During this time, they train in many surgical procedures, patient care, and practice management. This training equips them to handle complex cases involving the mouth, jaws, and facial structures.

In the United States, many oral and maxillofacial surgeons also obtain a medical degree during residency. This expands their expertise in both dentistry and medicine. Board certification by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) shows a surgeon’s commitment to high standards. This rigorous process ensures maxillofacial surgeons stay current with the latest surgical advancements. They are fully qualified to provide safe, effective treatment.

Choosing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon means your care is in the hands of a highly trained specialist. They have dedicated years to mastering oral surgery. Their extensive training allows them to perform procedures with precision and compassion. They always prioritize patient health and well-being.

Dental Implants and Other Services

At our dental practice, we offer various oral surgery techniques to help patients achieve optimal oral health and function. Common procedures include wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and gum grafts. Gum grafts treat gum disease and restore gum health, often requiring a periodontist’s expertise.

Wisdom teeth removal involves extracting the third molars, which usually emerge in late teens or early twenties. These teeth can cause pain, infection, sore jaws, and sore gums. Sore gums may signal impaction or infection needing extraction. Our oral surgeons use the latest techniques to ensure safe, effective, and comfortable wisdom teeth removal. Doctors and dentists diagnose these issues and refer patients for oral surgery when needed. In emergencies like facial trauma or severe infections, our clinic provides urgent oral surgery care.

Dental implants are a popular solution for missing teeth. They involve placing small posts into the jawbone to anchor artificial teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. After implant placement, proper healing is crucial for the best results. Our dental implant specialists have extensive experience in placement and restoration. We use state-of-the-art equipment and biocompatible materials for long-lasting, natural-looking results.

Oral surgery recovery is a vital part of the process. Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions, such as eating soft foods and taking prescribed medication, helps manage pain and inflammation. Many oral health issues, including impacted teeth and gum disease, can be treated effectively through surgery at our practice.

Preparation and Recovery

Preparing for oral surgery and following a recovery plan are essential for the best outcome. Before your procedure, your oral surgeon or dentist will give detailed instructions. These may include avoiding certain medications, fasting, and arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery, especially if sedation or general anesthesia is used.

After oral surgery, healing begins. Most people are advised to eat soft foods for several days to protect the surgical site and reduce discomfort while eating. Using ice packs on the face helps reduce swelling and manage pain during early recovery. Gently rinsing your mouth with salt water keeps the area clean and lowers infection risk.

Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. Many patients return to normal routines within days to a week. Attending all follow-up appointments is crucial to monitor healing and address concerns. Watch for signs of complications like excessive bleeding, persistent pain, or infection. Contact your dental specialist immediately if you notice unusual symptoms.

By following your oral surgeon’s instructions and supporting your healing, you can minimize discomfort and reduce complications. This helps ensure a smooth recovery after oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Why Elite Smiles

At our East Valley clinic on the border of Mesa and Gilbert, we know oral surgery can be intimidating. That’s why we take time to explain the process and answer your questions. Our team is dedicated to making you feel comfortable and informed throughout.

Besides oral surgery, Elite Smiles is a biological dental clinic. We use materials and techniques safe and compatible with your body. This reduces adverse reactions and promotes long-term health.

If you need oral surgery in Mesa or Gilbert, AZ, choose Elite Smiles. We provide high-quality care in a welcoming environment. We’re confident we can help you achieve the smile you deserve.

Whether you need a tooth extraction, dental implant, or corrective jaw surgery, our team has the skills and experience for great results. We pride ourselves on attention to detail and patient satisfaction. We can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.

If you need oral surgery in Mesa or Gilbert, AZ, contact Elite Smiles. We’re here to help you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile.