Featured Services
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Worry-free wisdom teeth extraction
By the age of 18, the average adult has 32 teeth - 16 teeth on the top and 16 teeth on the bottom. Each tooth in the mouth has a specific name and function. The teeth in the front of the mouth (incisors, canine and bicuspid teeth) are ideal for grasping and biting food into smaller pieces. The back teeth or molars are used to grind food up into a consistency suitable for swallowing.
Wisdom Teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. In most people, Wisdom Teeth erupt abnormally or remain impacted.
Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
The extraction of Wisdom Teeth is necessary when they do not properly erupt into the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum and even remain impacted - trapped beneath the gum and bone. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to erupt successfully. Poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause problems:
- When Wisdom Teeth are partially erupted, they are very difficult to clean, therefore, the opening around the tooth often becomes infected which may cause swelling, stiffness, pain, and illness.
- The pressure from impacted Wisdom Teeth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth.
- In rare cases, tumors or cysts may form around the impacted Wisdom Tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth.
Removal of the offending impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid future problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment of Wisdom Teeth result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their Dentist or Orthodontist.
Oral Examination & Medical Evaluation
With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Blaine Austin can evaluate the position of the Wisdom Teeth and reveal important features such as curved roots, proximity of the tooth roots to nerves, and other vital surgical information that can’t be determined by visually inspecting the mouth. A complete medical history will also be taken, with particular attention to allergies, medications or health problems that might affect surgery and/or the administration of anesthesia.
Anesthesia
All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Dr. Blaine Austin has the training and experience to provide various types of anesthesia for patients to select the best alternative. In most cases, the removal of Wisdom Teeth is performed under IV anesthesia; other options include laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia) or local anesthesia. Anesthesia options as well as any surgical risks will be discussed with you during your initial consultation, before the procedure is performed.
After Your Surgery
You will be given specific post-operative instructions to follow after your surgery is completed. As your mouth heals, your jaw may be sore and may not open as wide as usual. After a few days, moist heat applied to the face may be helpful, and gentle opening and closing of the mouth can help exercise the jaws and restore normal movement.
Most patients are able to resume light activities within two days. Vigorous physical activity can generally be resumed in about one week.
Dental Implants
Changing the way people live
Dental Implants look, feel and function like healthy, natural teeth. They can help protect your oral health and preserve your facial structure by preventing bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing. Dental Implants also enable you to eat a normal diet and smile with confidence, knowing that your teeth appear healthy and natural.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants are used to anchor one or more teeth. As the illustration
indicates, a Dental Implant is made up of three separate pieces - each fulfilling a unique role. The actual
Implant is a small titanium post that your Doctor surgically places in the jawbone. During the next three to six months, the
implant will integrate with the jawbone, forming a secure anchor upon which the two other components, the abutment and the crown, will be placed.
The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the Dental Implant process involves two phases. First, the implant is placed into the jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implant is gradually integrating with the jawbone beneath the surface of the gum.
After the implant has integrated into the jawbone, the second phase begins. The implant will be uncovered and a small temporary post will be attached, which will allow the gum to heal round the implant. Shortly after this minor procedure, your restorative Dentist will begin to make the crown for the implant.
The entire implant process (first and second phase) takes about six months. During this time, most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.
Who actually performs the Implant placement?
Implants are a team effort between your Utah Oral Surgeon Blaine Austin and your Dentist. Dr. Austin performs the actual implant surgery, your restorative Dentist will make the permanent replacement crown. Your restorative Dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis you may need during the implant process.
Are you a candidate for Dental Implants?
People of all ages (with the exception of growing children) can benefit from Dental Implants.
Medical Conditions. If you have routine dental treatment, it's likely you can have an implant placed. Patients with high blood pressure and diabetes may be candidates for implant treatment.
Gum Disease. Implants have a high success rate in patients who have lost their teeth to periodontal disease or decay. Bone loss, which is common in people who’ve had periodontal disease or tooth loss, may require Bone Grafting. Our Doctors are trained and experienced in grafting bone to prepare the jaw for implant placement.
Full or Partial Denture Wearers. Implants can be used to stabilize and secure full or partial dentures for added comfort.
Anesthesia
During your initial evaluation, your Doctor will discuss the type of anesthesia that is most appropriate for you. You can be assured that every effort will be made to minimize your anxiety and discomfort during and after surgery.
Caring For Dental Implants
Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your Dental Care Provider.
Other Services
Utah's top Oral Surgeon provides care dental trauma and can help you recover your healthy smile, relieve pain and give you a smile to last a lifetime.
Other services include:
- TMJ surgery
- Corrective jaw surgery
- Facial trauma
- Reconstructive surgery
Our staff is on hand to provide professional IV Sedation and general anesthesia if required or requested. We accept many forms or insurance, so don't let a small problem become a big one!
Please call today to schedule a consultation for your specific dental needs.
