Procedures Offered
Our goal is to provide affordable care in a clean and comfortable environment. Here is a description of the procedures we offer.
Simple/surgical extractions- The area is numbed with local anesthesia. The tooth (or teeth) are then gently removed. The socket is cleansed of any abnormal tissue.
Wisdom teeth removal- Wisdom teeth can often be positioned under the gums or bone of the jaws. Removal of these teeth involves numbing the area, making small incisions in the gums, and gently removing the teeth. The socket is then cleansed. Dissolvable sutures (stitches) may be placed to promote healing of the gum tissue.
Alveoloplasty- This procedure involves removing any sharp or irregular areas of the jaws following removal of teeth. This is necessary to allow dentures to fit comfortably over the area as you chew and speak.
Torus removal- A torus is an overgrowth of bone on the jaws. It is most common on the tongue side of the lower jaw or on the roof of the mouth. This bone usually does not cause any harm. However, if dentures are being made the bone can prevent the denture from seating properly. This bone often needs to be removed to allow for a denture to be worn correctly and comfortably.
Incision and drainage of abscess- Fluid that accumulates under the tissue from infection is called an abscess. Decayed teeth can allow bacteria to enter the soft tissue causing fluid accumulation and facial/jaw/neck swelling. When infection has spread into the soft tissue of the face or neck, the fluid must be drained to allow the infection to resolve. It is also important to remove the tooth causing the infection. Once the fluid has been drained, a small soft rubber drain may be placed to keep the area draining for 2-3 days. This drain is secured in place with a stitch, and must be removed (does not dissolve).
Dry socket treatment- Dry socket (also called alveolar osteitis) is a pain and bad taste due to loss of the blood clot following a tooth extraction. Normally, this blood clot covers and protects the healing socket. Losing the clot too soon is uncomfortable. The most likely time develop dry socket is 4-6 days following tooth extraction. Smoking, vigorous mouth rinsing, and poor oral hygiene after an extraction contribute to developing dry socket. Treatment involves gently cleansing the socket followed by placement of a medicated bandage to cover and numb the area.
Sedation Services:
Nitrous sedation- also known as "laughing gas". This type of sedation provides reduction in anxiety and allows procedures to be completed in a more comfortable fashion. The nitrous is combined with local anesthesia (numbing medicine) to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Once the procedure is completed, you are given oxygen which allows the effects of the sedation to wear off. You may drive after receiving nitrous.