3D CT Scan for Accuracy and Success

Using the most technologically advanced equipment is what allows our practice to provide our patients with the highest degree of care. Here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA, we utilize a 3D CT scanner for the most accurate and successful treatment.

The 3D CT scan is faster, more accurate, and provides much more information than traditional x-rays. They provide us with a three-dimensional image of the teeth, bone, tissue, and nerves. This is what helps us determine the best route and position for a dental implant. We can see exactly where nerves, sinuses, bone, and other teeth roots are at, so we can plan the right place and depth for an implant. We can also know exactly what size implant will work best for the space available.

The world of technology is ever-changing. There is always new technology making dental procedures more accurate, more efficient, and more comfortable for the patient. Efficiency and accuracy ensure a successful procedure and can save the patient time and money. This is why we choose to update our office with the latest advances. This is why we implement the 3D CT scanner here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania.

To learn more about the technology we use here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA call us at (215) 463-4141 or visit our website, www.oralsurgerypa.com. 

What Types of Anesthesia Will Be Used for my Procedure?

Depending on the type of procedure being performed, there are several different options for anesthesia available here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. Local anesthetic, nitrous oxide, and general anesthesia through an IV are used for a variety of different procedures.

Local anesthesia is placed only where the surgery is being performed to numb the area. The patient is awake but cannot feel the procedure. Local anesthesia is used for every procedure.

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas”, is administered through a mask. This form of anesthesia keeps the patient conscious, but relaxed.

General anesthesia is administered through an IV. In this scenario, the patient is completely unconscious. He or she is deeply asleep and unaware of the procedure.

Our office also offers patients “twilight sedation”, or IV sedation. This is a form of sedation where the patient may drift in and out of “twilight”-like sleep. This helps the patient relax and not remember the procedure. It also has medications that decrease pain.

Our patients’ comfort and safety is of the utmost value to us. If you are preparing for oral surgery and are curious about the type of anesthesia or sedation that will be used, contact us at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. For more information, visit our website, www.oralsurgerypa.com. 

Post-Extraction Care from Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania

Taking care of your mouth after a tooth is extracted is vital to healthy healing. Here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we take post-op seriously.

When a tooth is extracted, it is often to avoid an infection from spreading. After surgery, keeping the area clean and allowing it to heal properly will also prevent infection. After the extraction, any bleeding will need to be clotted. Your doctor may have you bite down on gauze until the blood is clotted and bleeding slows down. While bleeding is still present, do not lie flat, as this will promote more bleeding. Lie with your head propped up.

Make sure to take painkillers as directed by your doctor before the anesthesia wears off. For the rest of your day, relax. Any strenuous activity that could increase bleeding should be avoided. Avoid smoking and other tobacco products. Drink plenty of water and eat soft foods while healing. You can try harder foods as the healing progresses along. Do not use a straw, as sucking motions could cause more bleeding. Very carefully brush your teeth and your tongue. After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with salt water a few times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we know that the health of your mouth is important to the health of the rest of your body. For more information about how to care for your mouth post-extraction, visit our website, www.oralsurgerypa.com. 

Apicoectomy May Save Your Tooth

Root canals already have a bad reputation, but in the event that the root canal does not work, this can be frustrating, not to mention painful! The doctors here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are experienced in performing apicoectomies for when root canal therapy fails.

When a root canal becomes infected again after one or more root canals have already been performed, an apicoectomy may be performed. An apicoectomy is when the root tip of a tooth is removed and the infected debris is cleaned out. A filling is then placed to seal the root tip. This saves the tooth from being extracted.

Your doctor will cut the gum away from the affected tooth so the root is accessible. The root tip will be removed, as well as the infected tissue. The root canal will be cleaned and then sealed. Your doctor will then stitch or suture the gums that were cut. Afterwards, the bone tissue around of the tip of the root will heal around the newly healthy and sealed tip.

If you have had one or more root canals, but the infection keeps coming back, you may benefit from an apicoectomy. Schedule an appointment at any of our four Philadelphia, PA area locations. For more information, please visit our website, www.oralsurgerypa.com.