The term maxillofacial surgery refers to treatments of the face and the front portion of the head. “Maxillo” is a Latin word meaning the jawbone. Therefore, the term “maxillofacial” denotes the face and jawbones, and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized dentistry field focused on addressing dental concerns in these areas.
At PopUP Smiles in Newport Beach, California, we have the expertise to treat problems affecting the teeth, jawbone, and soft tissues of the face. We provide a wide range of oral and maxillofacial surgeries, including dental implant surgery, wisdom tooth removal, bone graftings, and corrective jaw surgery. We also work with Dr. Orest Frangopol, a specialty dental implant dentist with extensive experience and expertise, to meet our patients' implant surgical and prosthetic needs. Dr. Frangopol brings his international skills to our dental office to ensure that our patients receive the best possible dental care. At PopUP Smiles, we utilize the latest, state-of-the-art technology that includes 3D Cone Beam CT-Scan, 3D CAD-CAM Digital Design, etc., from start to finish of our dental and surgical procedures, ensuring the best possible results.
How Does Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeries in Newport Beach, CA Help?
Oral & maxillofacial surgeries will help address several oral concerns, including:
- Correct the abnormality of the bite.
- Treat chronic pain of the face, head, neck, and jaws.
- Placement of dental implants
- Wisdom tooth extractions
- Corrective jaw surgery
- Remove complex tumors
- Reconstruct the facial damage caused due to injury or disease
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Treatments in Newport Beach, CA
- Dental Implants
Dental implants are durable solutions for missing teeth. The implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and grafted with the jawbone through osseointegration. As dental implants become a part of the jawbone, the issue of bone loss does not arise.
- Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last molar teeth to grow. Sometimes they emerge properly from the gum line, and the jawbone is large enough to accommodate them. But if the wisdom teeth fail to erupt correctly and become impacted, they need to be removed. During the surgery, the impacted wisdom teeth are extracted by making incisions on the gums. The tooth may be broken into tiny pieces for easy removal if necessary.
- Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery is performed in which the upper or lower jaw and chin may be repositioned to correct skeletal and dental irregularities. The misalignment of jaws and teeth is rectified to improve chewing, speaking, and breathing functions. Contact us today!
- Facial Trauma
Maxillofacial injuries include any injury to the face, mouth, and jaw. Facial fractures can involve the upper jaw, lower jaw, cheekbones, palate, eye sockets, or a combination of these bones. These injuries need the help of oral and maxillofacial surgeries to correct them.
- Temporomandibular Joint Surgery
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a tiny joint in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw connect and allow the efficient movement and functioning of the lower jaw. If you experience headaches, jaw pain, earaches, limited ability to operate your mouth, clicking, or grating sounds, you may have temporomandibular disorder. If non-surgical treatment is not helpful or if there is evident joint damage, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect before, during, and after an oral and maxillofacial surgery procedure?
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Before the Procedure: Your surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans. They will discuss the procedure, anesthesia options, and post-operative care. You may need to follow specific pre-surgery instructions, such as fasting.
- During the Procedure: The surgery is performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The surgeon will make necessary incisions, perform the required treatment, and then close the incisions.
- After the Procedure: Post-operative care includes following instructions for pain management, oral hygiene, and diet. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common but manageable with prescribed medications and proper care. Your surgeon will schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and address any concerns.
What are the risks and potential complications associated with oral and maxillofacial surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, oral and maxillofacial surgery carries some risks and potential complications, including:
- Infection: Post-surgical infections can occur but are usually manageable with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal, but excessive bleeding may require additional treatment.
- Swelling and Bruising: These are common side effects and typically subside within a few days.
- Nerve Damage: Temporary or rare permanent changes in sensation or movement if nerves are affected during surgery.
- Delayed Healing: Factors like smoking or underlying health conditions can affect the healing process.
How should I prepare for oral and maxillofacial surgery, and what is the recovery process like?
To prepare for surgery:
- Follow Pre-Operative Instructions: This may include dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, and arranging for transportation if anesthesia is used.
- Prepare Your Home: Set up a comfortable recovery area with necessary supplies like pain medications, ice packs, and soft foods.
- Arrange Help: Have someone available to assist you, especially if you are sedated or undergoing general anesthesia.
Recovery typically involves:
- Managing Pain and Swelling: Use prescribed pain medications and follow your surgeon’s instructions for managing swelling, such as applying ice packs.
- Maintaining Oral Hygiene: Follow guidelines for oral care to prevent infections and promote healing.
- Adhering to Dietary Restrictions: Stick to a soft or liquid diet as advised and avoid strenuous activities.
- Attending Follow-Up Appointments: Regular visits to your surgeon to monitor healing and address any issues.
By understanding these aspects, you can better prepare for and manage your oral and maxillofacial surgery experience.
To learn more about our oral & maxillofacial surgeries, visit PopUP Smiles at 2131 Westcliff Drive Suite 210, Newport Beach, CA 92660. You can also reach us at 949-729-9950 and schedule an appointment.