Wisdom teeth removal and what to expect in Charlotte NC

Wisdom teeth removal is an experience that most adults in Charlotte NC will have at some point in their lives. But believe it or not, there are some people who do not require the removal of their wisdom teeth. These lucky people will have wisdom teeth coming in straight and they will also have healthy gums surrounding those teeth. For the rest of us, however, it is very common for wisdom teeth to come in at an odd angle which can cause a lot of problems.

How can wisdom teeth cause problems and what is the solution?

Wisdom teeth might grow in sideways or stay partially or completely covered by the gums. In these cases, the badly aligned wisdom teeth can push against the other teeth and create a whole host of difficulties within the mouth.  Bite misalignments, misalignment of surrounding, gum infections, pain, toothaches, and other such problems may develop. That is when it is time to call in the expert oral surgeon at Southpark Center.

Most of the time, it is in the best interest of patients to have their wisdom teeth completely removed. In most cases, the earlier the procedure is done, the better. Wisdom teeth removal procedures performed at an earlier stage prove to have less risk of complication and there is less chance that the new wisdom teeth will have caused any kind of damage or misalignments to the jaw and surrounding teeth.

Is it only oral surgeons who perform wisdom tooth extraction?

Both general dentists and oral surgeons perform wisdom tooth extraction procedures. Whether or not you will be required to see an oral surgeon to have your wisdom teethremoval taken care of largely depends on the complexity of your individual circumstance. However, some people may prefer to go to an oral surgeon for their wisdom tooth extraction simply because they feel more comfortable under the care of an experienced maxillofacial surgeon.

In fact, Charlotte NC residents who wish to go to an oral surgeon for wisdom teeth removal procedures can visit the oral surgery offices of Dr. Kevin Bond at The Southpark Center. At The Southpark Center in Charlotte NC, Dr. Kevin Bond will perform a detailed examination of your teeth that includes x-rays in order to determine whether or not your wisdom teeth are aligned properly and whether or not they pose the threat of causing dental issues in the future. In this regard, it is generally recommended that patients go to their dentist or oral surgeon during the middle of their teenage years for a wisdom tooth evaluation.

Typically, Dr. Kevin Bond performs wisdom tooth extraction procedures while his patients are under local anesthesia. In some cases, general anesthesia may be necessary or preferred by the patient. After the procedure has been performed, patients will receive an appointment to return one week following the surgery in order to have their sutures removed.

Get in touch with Dr. Kevin Bond for your wisdom tooth extraction today

If you live near Charlotte NC, and would like to learn more about Dr. Kevin Bond and wisdom teeth removal, get in touch with The Southpark Center today!

First visit to an oral surgeon in Charlotte NC?

Oral surgeons are special types of surgeons who help people by performing oral surgery to correct problems in their jaw, mouth, neck, head, face, teeth and gums. In fact, it might be best to think of an oral surgeon as a surgeon who specializes in almost everything from the neck up. Some kinds of oral surgery will even help patients who suffer from sleep apnea.

In Charlotte NC, patients who need to visit an oral surgeon can go to Dr. Kevin Bond at The Southpark Center. Dr. Kevin Bond and his team of professionals are deeply concerned about the quality of your experience under their care. This concern becomes apparent as soon as you walk into the doors of their beautiful and comfortable offices. Also, as soon as you meet Dr. Kevin Bond and shake his hand, you will be met with a warm bedside manner that is reassuring.

What should I expect on my first visit to a Charlotte oral surgeon?

If you come to The Southpark Center in Charlotte NC, you will likely have been referred to Dr. Kevin Bond by your primary care physician or by your general dentist. Or, maybe you heard about Dr. Kevin Bond through a friend, advertisement, or your insurance provider. Either way, here is what you can expect and what you can do to prepare for your first visit.

On your first visit, you will receive a consultation and examination by Dr. Kevin Bond and he will diagnose your condition while providing you with options for treatment. In some cases, you can actually receive surgery on the exact same day as your initial consultation, but in most cases – especially ones that involve a medical history that is particularly complex – you will need to return on another day to receive your treatment after Dr. Kevin Bond has had adequate time to review your complete medical background.

What should I bring when visiting a Charlotte oral surgeon?

There are several things that you can bring with you on your first visit to the oral surgeon that will help with the medical evaluation. First, bring a list of any pharmaceutical drugs that you are currently taking. Second, bring with you any x-rays that are applicable to your problem as well as the surgical referral paper from your doctor.  Finally, you can save time for you and your oral surgeon if you bring with you documentation regarding your medical and dental insurance.

If your procedure will require complete IV anesthesia, it will be necessary for Dr. Kevin Bond to perform a physical exam and preoperational consultation. You will also be required to avoid eating and drinking for eight hours before surgery and you will need to have someone available to pick you up and drive you back to your house after oral surgery.

Want to know more about oral surgery?

Dr. Kevin Bond at The Southpark Center in Charlotte NC, and his expert staff, are available to answer any questions regarding oral and maxillofacial surgery that you may have. If you want to know more, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with them, get in touch with The Southpark Center today.

Oral surgeons use bone grafting to help South Charlotte patients with dental implants

Oral surgeons are unique in the field of dentistry for their extensive medical and surgical training following dental school, as well as the array of procedures they are trained and qualified to perform on Charlotte patients. With a minimum of four years in a hospital-based surgical residency program, oral surgeons focus their training almost exclusively on the hard (bone), and soft (skin, muscle) tissue of the face, mouth and jaws. Maxillofacial refers to the jaw and face, and maxillofacial surgery by oral surgeons specifically involves these areas. Dental implants and bone grafting are two maxillofacial surgery procedures routinely performed by oral surgeons.

Oral surgeons pioneered field of implant dentistry

A little more than 20 years ago, oral surgeons pioneered the field of implant dentistry, and now they are forging new trails with bone grafting. Dental implants are becoming more common and even routine, with oral surgeons replacing the older, more cumbersome fixed bridges or dentures with comfortable, long-term dental implants. Using maxillofacial surgery techniques, oral surgeons surgically implant steel posts, or anchors, into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. After 20 years of service, the first recipients of dental implants by oral surgeons using maxillofacial surgery are still satisfied and report the implants work as good as the day they were put in place.

Sometimes, when teeth are missing due to extraction, gum disease, or injuries, the jawbone associated with the missing teeth shrinks or is reabsorbed, resulting in a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants by oral surgeons. It used to be the case that these patients would not be good candidates for implant dentistry. Now, through oral and maxillofacial surgery advances, bone can be grown in the area it is needed with a procedure called bone grafting. Oral surgeons use bone obtained from a tissue bank, or the patients own bone from the jaw, hip, or tibia, which is located below the knee.

Bone grafting opens door to dental implants for all patients

Bone grafting may sound a bit too much like Frankenstein and his monster, but really, it is a routine and safe maxillofacial surgery procedure that has opened the door of dental implants to patients who would otherwise have no other choice but to use dentures or dental bridges. Your Charlotte area oral surgeon at SouthPark Oral Surgery has years of experience and training in bone grafting to help make dental implants a reality for those who want the convenience and comfort this oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Oral surgeons have pioneered many of the oral and maxillofacial surgery techniques we take for granted. South Charlotte residents who are interested in bone grafting and dental implants should call the oral surgeon at SouthPark Oral Surgery today for information on this specialized procedure.

Tooth extractions easy and safe with SouthPark Oral Surgery

Tooth extraction is never a procedure Charlotte residents look forward to, but sometimes, it is necessary to preserve good oral health. Maybe you need teeth removal because you are undergoing orthodontic treatment and need to make extra room for teeth being moved into place. Perhaps your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted and need to come out before they cause pain or infection. Some people need tooth removal because they are undergoing radiation to the head or neck and their teeth are blocking the radiation site. Other times, cancer patients may have required the use of drugs that weakened their immune systems causing their teeth to become infected, and now teeth removal is necessary. Whatever the reason, tooth extractions are best performed by oral surgeons who have specific surgical training and skills to make teeth removal an easy and uneventful procedure.

Oral surgeons obvious choice for tooth extractions

Tooth extraction is a routine procedure for most dentists, but sometimes there are complications that preclude their use, and oral surgeons are a better choice. Patients undergoing wisdom teeth removal are usually referred to oral surgeons, because they have unique surgical skills and experience to handle the complications that can arise during this procedure.

Oral surgeons receive a minimum of four years of hospital-based training after dental school, alongside medical residents in internal medicine, general surgery and anesthesiology. With this intensive training, oral surgeons have the ability to administer all levels of sedation and general anesthesia, making patients more comfortable than general dentists may be able during tooth extraction. With their extensive surgical training and skill, as well as their experience with all levels of anesthesia, from conscious sedation to deep IV sedation and even general anesthesia, the oral surgeon at SouthPark Oral Surgery is the natural choice for south Charlotte residents who undergo tooth extraction.

What to expect following tooth extraction

When patients undergo tooth extraction, they may not know what to expect following surgery. The most important process of teeth removal begins right after surgery with the formation of a blood clot to help stop bleeding and begin the healing process. Oral surgeons will have patients bite on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes following tooth removal, and repeat as necessary until bleeding stops.

The blood clot needs to remain in place after it forms following tooth extraction, and patients should refrain from vigorous rinsing of the mouth, sucking on straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing teeth next to the teeth removal site for about 72 hours. Oral surgeons don’t want anything to disturb the healing process. Vigorous exercise is also discouraged, as this will result in a rise of blood pressure, and potentially cause more bleeding from the tooth extraction site.

Pain is an unfortunate side effect of tooth removal, but oral surgeons administer medication to help control discomfort and keep Charlotte patients comfortable during the healing process. An ice pack or even a bag of peas on the face where the tooth extraction occurred can help reduce swelling that accompanies tooth removal. Most importantly, SouthPark Oral Surgery wants patients to contact them immediately if pain is not relieved with prescribed medication, or if swelling or discharge worsens, as this could be an indication of complications that will require more attention.

Tooth extraction is not a procedure most Charlotte area residents look forward to, but when handled by oral surgeons, they can take comfort in knowing they are in expert hands. If you have tooth removal in your future, the oral surgeon at SouthParkOral Surgery is happy to offer his extensive training and experience to make your tooth extractions uneventful as necessary.

TMJ treatment at Southpark Oral Surgery in Charlotte NCrelieves discomfort

TMJ treatment is necessary when patients experience the pain and discomfort of TMJ disorders. TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint, the joint on each side of your head in front of your ears, where your lower jawbone meets your skull.TMJ disorders develop for a variety of reasons, but oral surgeons are able to diagnose and develop an individualized TMJ treatment for patients better than ever before.

How come my jaw is making a clicking sound?

TMJ treatment is for anyone who experiences TMJ disorders. TMJ disorders affect the complex jaw joint, and are easier for oral surgeons to diagnose and treat than in the past. That clicking or popping sound you hear whenever you open your mouth to eat or talk is caused by the misalignment of the temporomandibular joints on either side of your head. There are many reasons the temporomandibular joints are not working together, and they are as individualized as the patient. It could be you grind your teeth at night or clench your jaw and teeth during stressful times; you may suffer arthritis or damaged your jaw in an injury. What matters, though, is TMJ disorder get diagnosed and TMJ treatment started by Southpark Oral Surgery as soon as possible to prevent further problems that could lead to more serious conditions.

What signs of TMJ disorder shouldCharlotte NC patients look for?

Knowing the signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder can encourage you to visit an oral surgeon for TMJ treatment. Clicking or popping sounds are the most noticeable symptoms patients report because they are hard to ignore, but there are other signs to raise a red flag that TMJ treatment is needed. The following are a list of questions to ask if you think you may need TMJ treatment. Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth at night? Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaw? Do you have frequent headaches or backaches? Does pain get worse when you clench your teeth? Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth when you yawn or eat? Have you ever suffered a head, jaw or neck injury? Do you have other joint problems, such as arthritis? Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite? Do your teeth meet differently from time to time? Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food? Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken or worn? The more you answered yes to these questions, the more likely it is that you have TMJ disorder and require TMJ treatment to prevent further damage.

TMJ treatment options depend upon south Charlotte patient

TMJ treatment is complex, and determined on a case-by-case basis at Southpark Oral Surgery. Charlotte NC patients will work hand-in-hand with oral surgeons, as a team approach is the best guarantee of success. Relieving the pain and discomfort of muscle spasms and sore joints can be accomplished through steroid injections, as well as self care measures such as warm compresses, good posture, the application of heat and ice, jaw exercises, jaw rest, and a diet of soft foods. Stress management techniques may be included in TMJ treatment, as well as a splint to wear over teeth and keep them apart, relaxing muscles and relieving pain. Oral surgery is used in extreme cases, such as when the jaw won’t close, but other measures such as orthodontics or restorative dentistry may also be considered as part of TMJ treatment.

TMJ treatment by oral surgeons will relieve pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorder. Clicking or popping sounds, jaw pain, and teeth misalignment are some signs patients can look for when they suspect they may have TMJ disorder. Charlotte NC and south Charlotte residents who think they may have TMJ disorder should call Southpark Oral Surgery today for an evaluation, so treatment can be started.

Jaw surgery results in healthy dental-facial relationship!

Jaw surgery is beneficial for anyone with an improper bite or jaws that are misaligned. Jaw issues can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Orthodontics address teeth issues, but jaw surgery is required when repositioning is necessary. Jaw surgery sounds complex, and it is, but in the hands of the experienced oral surgeon at Southpark Oral Surgery, patients can rest easy.

Signs indicating you may need jaw surgery

Jaw surgery is not a procedure patients and oral surgeons just jump to, but there are some signs that you could be a candidate for oral surgery. Difficulty chewing, biting or swallowing could indicate a need for jaw surgery. If you have speech problems, an open bite, breathing problems, protruding jaw, or chronic jaw or TMJ pain, it is time to call your south Charlotte oral surgeon and see if you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery.

Jaw surgery can be a scary prospect and your oral surgeon should do everything he can to make you comfortable. Before treatment begins, oral surgeons will offer a consultation that includes a complete examination and x-rays. If you have any questions about jaw surgery, feel free to ask them anytime during the process. Only after patients are fully informed of oral surgery techniques and have all their questions answered will the oral surgeon proceed to the next step in the jaw surgery treatment process.

Jaw surgery improves facial appearance, restores chewing function

Jaw surgery can have dramatic results for patients, from improved facial appearance to restoration of chewing and speech function. When oral surgeons make a treatment plan for Charlotte NC residents, they will utilize modern computer techniques and three-dimensional models to show patients what to expect with jaw surgery. Through the wonders of modern computer technology, patients can see a visual image of their improved bite, and even how they will look following jaw surgery.

What to expect during jaw surgery

Jaw surgery may be performed under general anesthesia, and may take one to several hours to complete. During jaw surgery, your oral surgeon will re-position the jawbones; and may add, take away or reshape bone, utilizing surgical plates, wires, screws or rubber bands to hold the jaws in their new positions. Though incisions are usually made inside the mouth to reduce scarring, some facial incisions may not be able to be avoided, but great care is taken during oral surgery to reduce their appearance. After jaw surgery, your oral surgeon may prescribe a modified diet, and ask you to put a hold on smoking tobacco products and vigorous exercise. Medications easily control pain following jaw surgery, and most patients return to work or school in one to three weeks. The initial healing phase of jaw surgery is about six weeks, with complete healing of jaws between nine and 12 months. Southpark Oral Surgery will be with you every step of the jaw surgery process, from start to finish and in between, and will always be available to answer questions.

Jaw surgery is a wonderful tool for oral surgeons to correct misaligned jaws or improper bites, and will even improve your appearance. If you want an experienced oral surgeon to handle your jaw surgery, call Southpark Oral Surgery today for a consultation!

No brainer when it comes to wisdom teeth removal at Southpark Oral Surgery

Wisdom teeth are the subject of much discussion among young adults, specifically regarding wisdom tooth removal. Most adults have room in their mouths for 28 teeth; add in wisdom teeth and that number goes up to 32, many more than the average mouth can handle. Oral surgeons are the best physicians to handle the problem of wisdom tooth extraction because they are trained above and beyond dental school to manage medical problems of the mouth, face and jaw. Oral surgeons recommend early wisdom tooth removal to prevent complications related to their eruption and potential to become impacted. Wisdom teeth should be evaluated with an oral exam and x-rays during the mid-teen years for signs of present or future complications.

What is the problem with wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars, and the last to erupt in the mouth. As long as they are aligned properly, there is no issue, but this is often not the case. Most people just do not have enough space in their mouth for wisdom teeth, and wisdom tooth removal is the only course of action to prevent complications. Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems when they fail to erupt properly, including infection and disruption of natural alignment of teeth. More serious complications of wisdom teeth arise from the growth of tumors or cysts around impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in the destruction of jawbone and healthy teeth. Wisdom teeth need monitoring by an oral surgeon who may ultimately need to remove them to prevent damage to healthy teeth, gums and jawbone.

Everyone wants to tell their wisdom tooth removal story, but surgery not that complicated

Wisdom teeth have a long and storied history as the subject of anxiety among teenagers. Most teens know someone who can tell them a story about wisdom tooth extraction that sounds straight out of a horror flick. Teens like drama, and it is no different when it comes to wisdom teeth. The truth is, wisdom tooth removal is a fairly simple procedure. And for those times when it is not simple, your trusted oral surgeon is trained in a variety of sedation techniques such as laughing gas, local anesthesia and general anesthesia to help ease patient anxiety and pain, which help make the experience as uneventful as possible. In Charlotte NC and the south Charlotte area, patients who want the best and most experienced oral surgeon to handle wisdom tooth extraction can turn to Southpark Oral Surgery in Charlotte NC when it is time to address potential wisdom teeth complications.

Wisdom teeth may not make you any smarter, but they can complicate the environment in your mouth. Most people have room for 28 teeth, and when four more erupt they can bring a host of problems. Oral surgeons are trained to handle these complications, but it is best to address them before they erupt into bigger problems. Somewhere in the mid-teen years, oral surgeons can take x-rays and examine patients to see whether there are current problems or the potential for complications with wisdom teeth. Wisdomtooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure for most Charlotte NC patients, and oral surgeons are the most qualified and best-trained physicians to perform this common surgery.