If you are in need of oral surgery, call (435) 319-8992 to schedule an appointment with our dentist. At Common Sense Family Dentistry, we can provide you with the surgical procedure you need to maintain or restore your oral health. When it comes to dentistry, only certain dentists perform surgical procedures. Whether you are looking for a new dentist or are currently under the care of one and need more intensive procedures, we welcome your call. Dr. Scott Stucki can examine you, give you an opinion regarding whether or not you need surgery, what procedure will benefit you, and what you can expect from the process. Feel free to ask as many questions as you need in order to feel prepared and comfortable. In the meantime, here are a few frequently asked questions we hear in our office.
Why do people get oral surgery?
There are three main reasons that a surgical procedure could be necessary. The first is your health. Tooth decay is incredibly common, and if you receive regular dental care, it is easy to catch and treat before it causes discomfort or spreads. Unfortunately, too many people do not visit the dentist on a regular basis, and this can allow infections to set in. Occasionally, the decay becomes so bad, the tooth has to be removed. Other times, it can be saved with a root canal, but regardless, immediate dental care is necessary to stop the discomfort. It may also be necessary for Dr. Scott Stucki to perform oral surgery to correct a problem with your gums. If you have gum disease and suffer from gum recession, you could need a surgical gum graft, for example.
The second reason we perform oral surgery is to remove wisdom teeth. While they do not always pose an immediate health risk, they can grow in impact and cause discomfort. Removing them can prevent future infections and stop your wisdom teeth from pushing your other teeth forward.
Lastly, our patients can receive oral surgery for cosmetic reasons. Primarily, this is to replace missing teeth with dental implants. An implant is the most secure and durable solution for tooth loss, because it is the only solution that replaces the root in addition to the tooth. To do so, our dentist implants a titanium post under the gums and secures it to the jaw bone. Titanium is used because it is a strong metal that the body treats like natural matter. As a result, the implant and jaw bone will fuse together through the process of osseointegration. This takes a few months, but once complete, a new root system is developed, and when the new tooth is attached, it will be as secure as a natural one. To learn more about this process, call 435-628-5001 and schedule an appointment with our dental office.
Is oral surgery used with orthodontics?
Yes, when an orthodontist straightens teeth, one of the issues they address is overcrowding. There are certain procedures that can create space in the mouth, and one of them is to extract teeth. While not always necessary, some orthodontists will make a recommendation to have one or several teeth removed as part of the treatment process. An orthodontist is also concerned about jaw alignment. Overbites and underbites can often be treated non-invasively. However, in severe cases, oral surgery is necessary to change the position of the jaw. Whether or not you will need oral surgery as part of your orthodontic treatment is something to discuss during your initial appointment.
How do I prepare for oral surgery?
At Common Sense Family Dentistry, we will do whatever we can to keep you comfortable during your procedure, and part of that is helping you to be prepared. We believe in patient education and will go over the procedure with you step by step. Since each patient and surgery is unique, our overview here is more generic in nature, and Dr. Scott Stucki will want to take time with you individually. Typically, however, you will want to avoid eating food for a few hours (possibly starting the night before). This is standard protocol when receiving anesthesia. We also recommend that you purchase some ice packs and place them in the freezer. You should plan ahead and buy soft foods, plenty of water, and anything you need to relax and stay comfortable, which should certainly include ibuprofen.
Can you provide me with oral surgery if I am currently being treated by another dentist?
Yes, we can. When you visit our St. George dental office, let us know if you are being treated by a dentist and if they mentioned you needing oral surgery. Not everyone performs surgery, so if you want to remain in their care after the procedure has been completed, you certainly can. Otherwise, we welcome you as a new patient to our practice.
What is the recovery like from oral surgery?
This really depends on the type of surgery being performed. As a general rule, you can expect there to be some level of bleeding that is temporary and can be controlled with the gauze that we give you. You can also expect there to be swelling. This is where most of the discomfort comes from. To control it, you will want to place an icepack on your face for 15 minutes at a time, rest for 15 minutes and then use it again. Just be careful not to irritate your skin, and use a light cloth if you need to. Simultaneously, you should use ibuprofen to keep the swelling and discomfort at a minimum. The ice is typically only used for a day or two where the ibuprofen may be needed for a week or so. At Common Sense Family Dentistry, we may also give you antibiotics to take in order to prevent an infection. When it comes to food, you will want to stick with things that are soft and either do not require chewing (like soup) or can be chewed very easily (like steamed vegetables). Buying these items ahead of time will make your recovery easier. Just remember to take it easy and not to push yourself. It is best to follow Dr. Scott Stucki‘s instructions than to risk irritating your surgical site.
To find out if you need oral surgery or to discuss a surgical procedure in greater detail, call (435) 319-8992 and schedule an appointment. We will be happy to answer any questions you have and set you on the road to surgery and a full recovery.
For more information about oral surgery in St. George, Utah, call (435) 319-8992 and schedule your appointment to experience why patients trust Common Sense Family Dentistry with all of their dental needs.
Oral Surgery FAQs
Q: What types of oral surgery are available at Common Sense Family Dentistry?
A: Oral surgery is a specific type of dentistry that requires a more invasive procedure than just cleanings and examinations. These procedures require surgical treatment of the smile and can be performed on teeth, bones, or gum tissues. The three primary oral surgery solutions available with Dr. Scott Stucki include:
- Dental implants
- Root canal therapy
- Extractions
Q: Do I need surgery for dental implants?
A: Dental implants are restorations designed to replace missing teeth in a more permanent way than dentures or bridges. Oral surgery is required to place them. The implant itself is strategically placed into the natural bone of the jaw and restored over the abutment to complete the process and restore functionality and beauty to the smile.
Q: What is root canal therapy?
A: Root canal therapy, sometimes called endodontic treatment by oral surgeons like Dr. Scott Stucki, is typically described as a procedure necessary when a tooth has an infection. It removes the infected tissues and seals the inside of the tooth to prevent further infection. This treatment is typically necessary to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed.
Q: Why might I need a tooth extraction?
A: Tooth extractions are commonly performed oral surgeries for a variety of reasons, including:
- Severe decay or damage
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Crowded dentition requiring orthodontic treatment
- To make room for dental implants or other restorations
Q: Are there any risks that are commonly associated with oral surgery?
A: Any medical procedure can come with potential risks, and oral surgery is no exception. However, with the help of an experienced oral surgeon like Dr. Scott Stucki and his team at Common Sense Family Dentistry, as well as proper post-operative care, these risks are greatly minimized. Common risks include:
- Infection
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Nerve damage
- Bleeding
Q: How long does it take to recover from oral surgery?
A: Recovery time varies depending on the type of oral surgery performed and the individual patient’s healing process and aftercare. In general, most of our patients at Common Sense Family Dentistry experience some discomfort for several days following their procedure before returning to their normal activities.
Q: Who can I call in the area of St. George, Utah, to learn more about oral surgery?
A: Our team is here to educate you on the many procedures available to help you restore and rejuvenate your smile–while ensuring health and wellness! Call (435) 319-8992 to request a visit to 619 S Bluff St #400 to discuss your needs!
Q: Will I need x-rays before having oral surgery?
A: Yes, x-rays are typically required before oral surgery to give your surgeon a detailed view of the affected area. X-rays help the surgeon assess the condition of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures, allowing for accurate procedure planning. They are essential for identifying potential issues that could affect the surgery’s outcome, such as impacted teeth, infections, or bone density concerns. Depending on the case’s complexity, additional imaging, such as a CT scan, may be recommended to evaluate the surgical site further.
Q: Will I need to fast before my oral surgery?
A: Fasting is often required before oral surgery, especially if you will be receiving general anesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation. Fasting typically means no eating or drinking for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure. This precaution helps reduce the risk of complications, such as nausea or vomiting, during and after surgery. Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding fasting based on the type of anesthesia being used. Following these instructions closely is important to ensure a safe and successful surgery.
Q: Will I be offered sedation before my oral surgery?
A: Yes, sedation is commonly offered before oral surgery to ensure your comfort and reduce anxiety during the procedure. The type of sedation used will depend on the complexity of the surgery and your personal preferences. Options include local anesthesia, which numbs the surgical area, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild relaxation, oral sedatives for deeper relaxation, and intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia for a completely unconscious experience. Your oral surgeon will discuss the sedation options during your appointment to determine the best approach for your needs.
Q: Following my oral surgery, will I be able to drive home?
A: If you receive general anesthesia or IV sedation during your oral surgery, you will not be able to drive yourself home afterward. These forms of sedation can impair your coordination, judgment, and reflexes for several hours, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle. It’s important to arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours following surgery. If you only receive local anesthesia or nitrous oxide, driving may be possible, but it’s still advisable to have someone accompany you as a precaution.
Q: Is there a risk of complications with my oral surgery?
A: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications with oral surgery, though these are typically rare and can often be managed effectively. Potential complications may include infection, bleeding, swelling, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. In some cases, nerve damage, sinus issues, or delayed healing may occur. Your oral surgeon will discuss the specific risks associated with your procedure during the appointment and provide you with instructions on how to minimize these risks. Following your surgeon’s pre-and post-operative care guidelines can help ensure a smooth recovery.
Q: How long should I expect my recovery from oral surgery to last?
A: The length of recovery from oral surgery depends on factors, including the type of procedure undergone and the severity of the issue being treated. For simpler surgeries, such as tooth extractions, recovery may take just a few days. More complex procedures, such as jaw surgery or bone grafting, may require several weeks of healing. During recovery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, which may include resting, managing pain with prescribed medications, and avoiding certain foods and activities. Your surgeon will provide a specific recovery timeline based on your case.
