Archive for January, 2019

Oral & Maxillofacial Bone Grafting Techniques

Bone grafting is a routine procedure performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in preparation for dental implant placement. Dental implants require a solid foundation of bone tissue for proper support. But after a tooth is lost or extracted, the jawbone begins to degenerate. Placing a bone graft, made of natural or synthetic materials, works to […]

What Are Dental Implants? The 3 Parts of an Implanted Tooth

For oral surgeons, dental implants are the preferred choice for tooth replacement. With their natural fit, full function and organically beautiful appearance, implanted teeth far surpass bridges and dentures in every way. If dental implants are new to you, you might not realize why they’re the best tooth replacement option. To get a better understanding […]

Rare Complications During Tooth Extraction Procedures

Tooth extractions performed by a skilled and experienced oral surgeon are typically problem-free. In fact, for most patients, the procedure goes off without a hitch. On rare occasions, however, complications can occur. Tooth Fracture When a tooth is being pulled, it can fracture, split or break. If this happens, completing the extraction is likely to […]

Oral Surgery for Orofacial Pain

Orofacial pain is more common than you may realize. Many people suffer from pain in the face, neck and mouth. For some, conservative treatments are effective. For others, oral surgery is the solution. The decision on how to treat orofacial pain is made on a case-by-case basis, after a thorough assessment and diagnostic evaluation. Pain […]

Facial Injuries from Winter Sports – Treatment and Prevention

Winter sports frequently cause facial injuries that require expert care from an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. With skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling, the vast speed means any collision has the potential to cause serious facial trauma. Ice skating can be just as hazardous, particularly for people who lack experience. Fortunately, when the unforeseen happens, the professional […]

Dental Abscess vs. Dental Cyst – What’s the Difference?

While dental abscesses and dental cysts do share some similarities, the two oral health threats are not one and the same. Here, the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Utah team explains the difference – and why you always pursue prompt professional treatment if you suspect you have a dental abscess or dental cyst. What is […]

Are You at Risk for Oral Cancer?

In 2018, the American Cancer Society estimates that oral cancer afflicted approximately 51,540 people in the United States. And for many of those patients – a projected 10,030 people – the disease will prove fatal. Is there a chance you could be diagnosed with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer? The truth is, the disease can […]

8 Times Wisdom Tooth Removal is Recommended

Will you need wisdom tooth removal? Maybe not. If your third molars are healthy and erupting in the proper position, pulling them might not be a must. That said, oral surgeons often recommend proactive extraction, as keeping your wisdom teeth can lead to future complications. And, if you’re experiencing one of the following oral health […]