Conditions of the Teeth
Understanding Tooth Health and Associated Conditions
At the Alaska Center for Oral + Facial Surgery, we recognize the significance of dental health as a cornerstone of overall well-being. As an oral surgeon in Anchorage, our team is equipped to handle a variety of tooth-related conditions and procedures tailored to meet your needs. Whether you're facing discomfort, decay, or require preventive measures, understanding the conditions affecting your teeth is vital for making informed decisions about your dental care.
Common Dental Conditions
Dental conditions can arise from various factors, including genetics, poor oral hygiene, trauma, and lifestyle choices. Recognizing these conditions early on helps prevent more severe complications down the line.
Cavities
Decay caused by tooth enamel erosion.
Gum Disease
Inflammation of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if untreated.
Tooth Sensitivity
Pain during consumption of hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Teeth that do not fully erupt, often leading to pain and infection.
Malocclusion
Misalignment of teeth that can affect bite and overall function.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth
Damage resulting from trauma or excessive force.
Staining and Discoloration:
Change in the tooth color due to various factors like diet and smoking.
Root Canals
Infection or damage to the tooth's pulp requiring specialized treatment.
Oral Cancer
Abnormal growths in the mouth that require immediate attention and diagnosis.
Tooth Extraction
One of the most common procedures performed at Alaska Center For Oral + Facial Surgery is the extraction of teeth. You and your doctor may determine that you need a tooth extracted for a number of reasons, including severe tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease, and broken teeth that can’t be repaired. Some teeth, such as wisdom teeth (third molars), may require removal due to poor positioning in the mouth, preventing you from experiencing their benefit.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Your dentist may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for wisdom tooth evaluation in your early teenage years with the goal of preventing problems such as dental crowding, pain, infection, and cyst development before these issues start.
With an oral examination and imaging of the jaw bones, your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and make recommendations for surgical removal if indicated.
Your wisdom tooth surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort. After your surgery, you will be provided with all necessary post-operative care information and medications to help ensure a quick and manageable recovery.
Our surgeons perform many other tooth procedures, including:
Dental Extractions: Removal of problematic teeth, including wisdom teeth.
Dental Implants: Areas of missing teeth, both partial or complete, or replacement of hopeless teeth when surgical options are needed. Implants, bone grafting, or soft tissue grafting.
Impacted or Immobile Teeth: Orthodontic procedures where surgical adjuncts are required. (Unerupted canines or other teeth, growth modification with plate or pin anchorage required.)
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are essential for detecting and preventing various dental conditions. Our oral surgeon in Anchorage can identify issues before they escalate, saving you time and potential discomfort in the long run. During these visits, our team will:
Perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums.
Take digital X-rays if necessary to visualize underlying issues.
Offer personalized insights regarding your oral health.
Provide necessary treatments or referrals to specialists if needed.
Common Terms and Definitions
Dental Implants
Surgical placement of implants for missing teeth or teeth that need extraction. Dental restorations will be added later by your dentist.
Wisdom Teeth
The third set of molars that typically develop during the teenage years. Most often, these teeth need to be removed.
Alveoplasty
A procedure that reshapes the jawbone, which can be done with or without the removal of teeth.
Apicoectomy or Coronectomy
Surgical procedures that involve removing the crown of a tooth or the tip of its root, usually without performing a root canal.
Frenectomy/Frenulectomy
Surgery to release "tongue-tie" or "lip-tie," conditions where the tongue or lip is restricted in movement.
Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)
A surgical procedure to reposition jaw bones, improving bite alignment and overall smile.
Gum and Soft Tissue Grafting
Surgery aimed at enhancing the thickness and height of gum tissue.
Tooth Removal
The process of extracting erupted teeth, which can be done surgically or non-surgically.
Impacted Teeth
Surgical excision of tumors and cysts associated with teeth.
Preventive Care and Patient Education
Prevention is key to maintaining a healthy smile. Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons emphasize patient education as part of our treatment approach. We offer guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques, dietary recommendations to prevent cavities, and the importance of avoiding harmful habits that could affect dental health.
Additionally, regular cleanings and professional dental exams can help you stay ahead of issues before they require surgical intervention.
Understanding the conditions that affect your teeth is a vital step in promoting better oral health. At Alaska Center for Oral + Facial Surgery, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for a range of dental issues. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or wish to learn more about our services, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our team of expert oral and maxillofacial surgeons is here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile.