Family dentistry and oral surgery under one roof in San Francisco
When you become a patient of West Portal Family Dentistry, you can count on receiving the care you need, including oral surgery, from the San Francisco dental team you know and trust. Dr. Terri Nguyen and Dr. Laura Huynh handle most oral surgeries without having to refer patients out.
Extractions
If at all possible, our dentists will repair decay or damage with expert treatments such as fillings, crowns, and root canal therapy. However, in some cases extraction is the best solution for your oral health:
- Breakage below the gum line.
- Advanced, unrepairable tooth decay.
- To make room for orthodontics.
- In preparation for dentures.
- Impacted wisdom teeth.
Dr. Nguyen performs basic and complex extractions, including erupted wisdom teeth and partially impacted wisdom teeth. Every precaution is taken to make the experience tolerable and to speed healing. In addition to numbing, oral sedation and IV sedation are available.
Bone grafting
When a tooth falls out or has to be extracted, surrounding jawbone atrophies. Bone grating may be necessary to provide stability for a dental implant. Dr. Nguyen performs immediate bone grafting (at the time of extraction), and in cases where the tooth has been missing for some time. Bone for augmentation may come from a spot in your own mouth that has healthy bone, from a human cadaver, or from non-human sources.
Gum surgery
Patients with advanced gum disease may require oral surgery to facilitate healing and ongoing gum maintenance. In this situation, the dentist trims away diseased gum tissue. Underlying bone may also be trimmed and augmented. These procedures help to restore a tight seal of gums to teeth, and halt progression of gum disease.
Oral Surgery FAQs
What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery involves procedures related to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. It can include anything from wisdom tooth extraction to implants or corrective jaw surgery. It involves special care for your smile and the structures that support it, ensuring proper oral health and wellness when problems arise.
Does oral surgery hurt?
Most of our West Portal Family Dentistry oral surgeries are performed with anesthesia or sedation, which keeps you both comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. While you might feel some discomfort afterwards, your surgeon at our clinic provides instructions and medication to manage it.
Why might I need oral surgery?
There are many reasons someone might need oral surgery. Common cases include removing impacted wisdom teeth, treating jaw misalignment, repairing facial injuries, or placing dental implants. Your oral surgeon will explain why surgery is the best option for your individual needs compared to alternative treatments.
How long does it take to recover from oral surgery?
Recovery times vary significantly depending on the procedure. You might return to normal for minor surgeries like wisdom tooth removal within a few days. More complex surgeries, like jaw correction, could require weeks of recovery time. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions speeds up the healing process.
What can I eat after oral surgery?
Soft foods are your best friend following oral surgery procedures! While recovering, items like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups are great choices. Avoid crunchy, spicy, or hard-to-chew foods while you heal. And don’t forget to stay hydrated, as this is just as important to the healing process.
Will I be awake during oral surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery and the anesthesia used. For some procedures, you might stay awake with a numbed mouth, while others might involve sedation or general anesthesia, so you will sleep through it. Your oral surgeon discusses all options beforehand so that you are fully prepared.
Is oral surgery safe?
Yes, oral surgery is generally considered extremely safe when performed by a skilled and licensed professional. Your oral surgeon at West Portal Family Dentistry in San Francisco, California, takes every precaution to ensure the procedure goes smoothly, and they guide you through pre- and post-surgery care to minimize the risks.
Gentle, effective oral surgery is among the services provided in San Francisco by West Portal Family Dentistry. New patients are welcome – just call (415) 604-9292 to begin receiving comprehensive care.
