Saturday, December 22, 2018

Pros and Cons of Electric Toothbrushes

As dentists who base our practice on removing and replacing teeth, we at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania stress the importance of good oral hygiene. Many patients who wish to care for new implants are curious about which of the many oral hygiene products best suit their needs. When it comes to electric versus manual toothbrushes, it could depend on the person’s brushing skills.


When manual toothbrushes are used properly, they provide as much protection against tooth decay as electric toothbrushes. However, manual toothbrushes also have to be used for two minutes at a time, and many people do not use them for long enough to do a thorough job cleaning. There is also a risk that a manual toothbrush could scratch a denture, although people should only ever be using brushes with soft bristles and there are manual toothbrushes specifically designed for dentures. Electric toothbrushes make tens of thousands of strokes per minute without the user needing to move their hands as much and they don’t exert pressure, so some people get better results with them. But there is also a risk of overbrushing the gums.


Besides being more convenient for people with dexterity issues, the other major benefit of electric toothbrushes is that some of them come with Bluetooth technology. This allows them to interact with apps that monitor whether a patient is skipping over spots on their teeth.  The apps work on a similar principle to chewable plaque disclosing tablets, but can be used to track the brusher’s progress over multiple brushings. This sort of technology costs much more than regular toothbrushes, but may be worth it to someone who has been unable to prevent tooth decay using low-tech means.


Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Replace Teeth with Dental Implants

The doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania replace teeth and restore patient smiles with dental implants. Implants are a permanent restorative option for teeth that are missing or have been extracted.  They look and feel just like natural teeth, and are the most permanent and efficient means of replacing lost teeth.


An implant is placed over a series of appointments because of the healing time required.  Implants are titanium screws inserted through an incision in the gum. Over a period of 3-6 months, the jaw bone heals around the implant to become a solid, stable base for the new tooth. During this time a patient is fitted with a temporary crown, and a custom crown is created to match their smile perfectly.


After the jaw bone and gums have healed appropriately, the custom crown is placed in a second minor procedure.  The doctor may need to expose the head of the implant by removing some gum tissue, and the crown will be screwed to the top of the implant.  When this is complete the tooth looks like part of the natural smile, and with proper care will last for decades!


To learn more about dental implants and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Smoking with Sleep Apnea

Smoking will exacerbate any respiratory condition, and it is proven to cause snoring and lead to obstructive sleep apnea.  Patients struggling with sleep apnea should come see us at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania for evaluation. We can help patients find relief from sleep apnea, but quitting smoking is up to you!


Smoking causes upper airway inflammation, meaning the swelling causes the airway to narrow and disrupts the flow of air to the nasal passage and throat.  This causes snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.  Cigarettes are highly addictive, and some smokers seek treatment for sleep apnea but continue to smoke. Smoking with sleep apnea not only puts more stress on the heart every day, but negates any treatment a sleep apnea patient is undergoing.


Habitual smokers may feel relaxed by one last cigarette for the day, but it actually creates more complications for restful sleep. Smokers can experience nicotine withdrawal overnight, causing more waking up and restlessness.  Quitting smoking cold turkey is very difficult, but even lessening the amount of cigarettes or avoiding smoking at nighttime can help you achieve more restful sleep.  Most smokers cannot quit on their own or on their first attempt, so don’t get discouraged!


To learn more about sleep apnea and the treatments provided at the practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Thursday, November 29, 2018

Retained Baby Teeth

We all remember the funny feeling of losing our baby teeth and watching adult teeth emerge in its place. But sometimes, baby teeth don’t fall out on their own. Dentists are generally reluctant to extract them, but there are times when we at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania recognize that it’s the best option for adult or teenaged patients whose retained baby teeth are causing problems.


A baby tooth falls out because the erupting adult tooth dissolves its root. If the adult tooth is coming in at a different angle, the baby tooth’s root may remain solid, and the patient could end up with two rows of teeth. This most often happens with the lower incisors, although it can happen to the upper ones, as well. In these cases, it is difficult for the patient to brush all their teeth, and they may have alignment problems from overcrowding or bite problems from the teeth’s misplacement. They may be referred for orthodontic work after the extraction is finished.


It’s also not uncommon for people to be congenitally missing adult teeth. This most often occurs with the upper lateral incisors. The baby tooth never falls out because nothing is pushing it. We may recommend that these patients get their missing teeth replaced with implants after the baby teeth have been extracted, if their baby teeth are causing aesthetic or bite issues.


Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Acid Reflux and Holiday Food

Now that the holiday season is in full swing, we at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania want to offer our patients some guidance for avoiding toothaches this winter. While many people rightly think of the sugary treats available this time of year as a threat to oral health, there is another underappreciated source of toothaches: acid reflux. Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, this condition is influenced by what patients eat and drink.


Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter that keeps stomach acid out of the rest of the body opens, allowing the acid to escape upward. This process can sometimes be recognized by the burning pain it causes in the chest; less commonly, it can cause respiratory distress. When acid reaches the mouth, it burns the inward-facing sides of teeth, eroding their enamel and making them more sensitive.


The mouth has its own defense against acid reflux in the form of saliva, which helps regulate its pH level. Unfortunately, there are a number of medications and other conditions which cause dry mouth. Patients can stimulate more saliva production by sucking on xylitol-flavored candy (sugary candy will make dry mouth worse and can lead to tooth decay). To reduce their risk of acid reflux developing in the first place, patients should avoid overconsumption of alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, spicy food, tomato sauce, and mint flavoring. It’s also better to avoid eating in the hours before bedtime and to eat only while in an upright posture.


Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania opperate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Wednesday, November 7, 2018

Diabetes and Gum Disease

If you suffer from diabetes, your teeth may be in danger. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we often do full-mouth restorations on people who need all their teeth replaced. But restorations are easier when patients still have stable jaw bone material, which is why we want our diabetic patients to be on-guard against periodontal disease.


People with diabetes are prone to experience chronic inflammation. Their arteries thicken, making it more difficult for their blood to deliver nutrients and immune agents to locations of infections. Consequently, diabetic people have a more difficult time fighting off gum pocket infections and have higher rates of gingivitis and periodontal disease than the general population. At its most extreme, periodontal disease causes gum and bone tissue to recede, leaving the teeth vulnerable to falling out.


Some evidence has emerged that gum disease may also make it harder for patients to regulate their blood sugar level, worsening other symptoms of diabetes. However, treatment of periodontal disease is associated with improved health. Regular oral hygiene and professional cleanings can help diabetic patients to avoid gum infections, and avoiding smoking can prevent inflammation. If a patient has diabetes, it may be possible for them to get implants, but they will still need to be especially vigilant about their oral hygiene.


Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Thursday, November 1, 2018

Reap the Benefits of Dental Implants

Are missing teeth making you feel insecure? Do you wear dentures but find them uncomfortable? If you’ve answered yes to these questions, Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania would like to discuss the benefits of dental implants. Dental implants are ideal for someone missing one or many teeth and can last up to ten years with proper oral maintenance.


A primary benefit of dental implants is that they preserve bone and prevent further deterioration of the facial structure and can approve aesthetic appearance. Dental implants can take years off of a patient’s face and renew their self-esteem in the process. Unlike dentures, dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, and because they are placed into the jawbone, they will not slip or slide as dentures may do.  


If you have questions or concerns about oral surgery or tooth restoration options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Saturday, October 27, 2018

Consequences of Tooth Loss

Nearly 40% of patients have confessed that they haven’t visited the dentist in their lifetime. People who lack adequate oral care habits will develop periodontal disease that will advance to its aggressive stage and diminish the bone, leading to tooth loss. Smokers are also likely to lose teeth over time as well as those who have a highly acidic diet. Fortunately, Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania have a variety of options to restore the function of your smile.


If missing teeth are not replaced, the patient may notice structural changes in the face. Loss of teeth will cause the face to sag and tend to make a person look older than they are. The way you look affects the way you feel and our doctors want our patients to feel comfortable and confident. If you are missing teeth, don’t suffer the consequences; talk to us about our options.  


If you have questions or concerns about oral surgery, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Swollen Lips after Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions are routine at the offices of the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, but they are most successful when patients feel they understand what to expect. The most common issue for patients to encounter following extraction is swelling.  Although there is little to fear in the long-term from this, patients can take steps to make themselves more comfortable.


It is often necessary to numb an entire jaw when extracting a tooth from it. This creates an unusual sensation which leads some people, especially children, to experimentally bite down on their numbed lips. Swelling is likelier if the extraction was complex, and it is also likelier when the patient irritates their soft tissues by biting on them. Biting repeatedly on swollen tissue creates a risk of breaking the fragile skin and incurring an infection.


If tissue does swell up within 24 hours of an extraction, patients may relieve it by pressing cold packs against the affected area. But it is important to not leave the cold pack on for longer than 15 minutes at a time, and to wait 15 minutes before reapplying it.  After the swelling peaks, warm compresses are will be effective. This treatment will probably only be necessary if swelling is still significant after two days, which is more often the case with complex extractions.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

National Dental Hygiene Month

Good hygiene goes a long way toward preventing dental problems. For patients at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, it is even more essential to ensuring successful procedures and maintaining the health of implants. October is National Dental Hygiene Month, so we thought this would be a good time for a refresher on how to clean teeth effectively.


Babies’ teeth need to be brushed from the time the first one begins to erupt, and people with dentures need to brush just as thoroughly as people with natural teeth. If you are using a non-electric toothbrush, make sure it has soft bristles. There is specialized toothpaste available for dentures, but most peoples’ needs can be met with any of the toothpaste you see in the store. Brush twice a day for two minutes per session, and be sure to reach the parts of your teeth near the gum lines. You’ll have to switch from horizontal, round strokes to vertical strokes while brushing the inward-facing sides of your teeth.


Dentists recommend flossing with regular floss, flossers, or a Waterpik, but you should never pick your teeth with something that wasn’t made for them. When flossing, slide the floss all the way along the side of each tooth and scrape plaque of them by making a shoeshine motion. Don’t forget the backs of your back teeth. Mouthwash can help fight bad breath, but it isn’t very useful on its own. A better way to combat bacteria is by using a tongue scraper once a day.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

CBCT Digital Imaging

Oral surgery of any kind can seem dreadful. It is usually an outpatient surgery performed in stages that include removing a damaged tooth, preparing the jawbone for surgery, and waiting for the jawbone to heal. If a patient requires a dental implant, when it comes to placement, one of our doctors of Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania makes a cut to open your gum and expose the bone. Holes are drilled into the bone where the dental implant metal post will be placed. With CBCT digital imaging software, this process causes less discomfort for the patient.


CBCT 3D imaging benefits include, but are not limited to, predictable implant planning, comprehensive 3D communication with the patient, optimal team communication, more precise wisdom teeth extraction, as well as immediate temporary restoration, and cost-efficient results. From dental scanning and planning to drill and implant placement, CBCT offers our Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania a comprehensive 3D system for accurate and efficient treatment.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that removes or loosens the band of muscle tissue that is connected to the lip, cheek or floor of the mouth. Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania perform this procedure right in the office. A frenum that is too short or thick, will cause problems in speech patterns and tooth misalignment. In infants, a shortened frenum underneath the tongue will inhibit breastfeeding.


Before recommending a frenectomy, one of our doctors will consider several factors. One factor is whether the condition is likely to fix itself eventually without surgery. However, if a newborn baby is having difficulty feeding because of this condition, also known as “tongue tie,” then a frenectomy is needed. When the frenulum disrupts movement, growth, or development, corrective action is necessary to resolve the situation. If you or your child needs a frenectomy, the procedure is very successful and causes minimal discomfort.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Smoking And Oral Surgery

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are dedicated to encouraging patients to make the best decisions for their oral health.  We care for patient’s teeth and perform many procedures on patients with various grades of oral health.  Many patients are still smokers, and despite all the known health risks, it is a notoriously tough habit to break.  We have seen patients at every stage of quitting smoking when they need a dental procedure.  Even if you can’t quit just yet, it is important to abstain from smoking after a tooth extraction or procedure on the gums.


We want you to abstain from smoking after oral surgery as long as you can, but we recommend waiting at least five days for your safety.  The sucking action used to inhale a cigarette can dislodge a blood clot at the surgery site, which we would then call a dry socket.  A dry socket is a serious risk for infection and can cause intense pain.  Smoking also causes blood vessels to shrink, so they deliver less oxygen and fewer nutrients to the wound area and it slows the healing process.  We want you to quit cigarettes for good, but after oral surgery you must wait for your safety!


To learn more about oral health and all the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

What Is TMD?

The temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones in your skull, in front of each ear.  A general term for any problem or issue with this joint is temporomandibular disorder, or TMD. The doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania can help patients prevent and recover from negative effects of TMD.


Patients that grind or clench their teeth often end up with a sore jaw.  Other patients experience injuries with facial trauma that cause jaw pain, or result in the patient feeling their jaw gets stuck or ‘locks’ in either an open or closed position.  A custom night guard keeps the jaw in a neutral position during sleep, and this helps many patients find relief from TMD symptoms.  For any pain, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter painkiller or warm and cold compresses.  To prevent further discomfort, you may be assigned stretches for your jaw. 


Whatever your symptoms, you don’t have to suffer with discomfort in your jaw.  To learn more about TMD and the services provided at the practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Tooth Extraction Expectations

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, one of our doctors may recommend wisdom teeth extraction when they become bothersome. Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that patients develop in their late teens or early twenties. These teeth can become misaligned, and when that happens they can crowd or damage adjacent teeth, the jawbone, or nerves. Additionally, if they are impacted (enclosed in the gum tissue) they can cause pain, swelling, and even an infection if left untreated. The idea of oral surgery is scary enough, but fortunately, our doctors will make you feel as comfortable as possible.  


To prepare you for the extraction procedure, our doctors may perform the following:



  • Expose the bone and tooth by making an incision in your gum tissue

  • Remove bone that's blocking tooth root access

  • Break your tooth into sections to make removing the pieces easier

  • Remove the tooth completely

  • Clean out tooth or bone debris once the tooth is removed

  • Stitch up your wound site if necessary to promote healing

  • Control bleeding by placing gauze over the extraction site



If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Saturday, September 1, 2018

Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

If you are considering implants, you must have healthy gums and sufficient bone to support the implant. Also known as regenerative surgery, a bone graft is used to recreate bone and soft supporting tissues that are destroyed during gum disease. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, bone grafting is a common procedure that is used frequently for dental implants and other periodontal procedures.


If a patient’s jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, bone grafting may be required before they can have dental implant surgery. This is because the powerful chewing action of the mouth exerts great pressure on the bone, and if it can’t support the implant, the surgery will likely fail. With bone grafting, a piece of bone is removed from another part of the patient’s mouth.  In some cases, they might only need minor bone grafting, which can be done at the same time as the dental implant surgery.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

What Is An Apicoectomy?

The doctors of Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania perform many root canals to save and repair teeth that are badly damaged or infected.  During a root canal a dentist removes any inflamed or infected tissue, and thoroughly cleans the root canal system. In about 90% of cases, the tooth heals and doesn’t require further treatment. When an infection won’t go away or the canals become re-infected after root canal treatment, our doctors can perform an apicoectomy.


An apicoectomy is also called a root-end resection and is performed to remove damaged tissue and seal a tooth’s root from any further infections.  The procedure involves a small incision in the gums, followed by removal of any infected tissue and finally the end of the root tip itself.  A root-end filling is placed there to act as a seal, preventing reinfection. The gum is sutured, and most patients only feel slight discomfort or swelling during healing.  If you have a tooth infection lingering after a root canal gone wrong, please contact us to discuss your treatment options.


To learn more about the apicoectomy procedure and all the services we offer, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Chewing Gum For Dental Health

The doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania encourage patients to take care of their oral health in their daily lives.  Even when you brush and floss regularly, chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to freshen your breath and your smile throughout the day. When you picture chewing gum, you may think of kids chewing extra sweet bubble gum blowing and popping bubbles.  But adults can chew and enjoy gum too! 


Chewing sugar-free gum soon after eating is a great way to clean up between brushings.  Choose a gum that is sugar-free or look for one sweetened with xylitol.  Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can also help prevent tooth decay.  Chewing gum for about twenty minutes soon after eating will encourage production of more saliva to neutralize acid and wash it away from the teeth.  The only way chewing gum may be harmful is if you have jaw pain or temporomandibular disorder symptoms, because excess chewing can agitate that issue. Sugar-free gum is still an easy thing to carry along, and a great way to care for your smile.


To learn more about oral health and all the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Thursday, August 9, 2018

Peri-Implantitis

Implants are a highly effective means of replacing lost teeth. At the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania in the Philadelphia area, we regularly see patients through the entire process of implant placement, osseointegration, and crown placement. But like natural teeth, implants need to be cared for, or else patients run the risk of developing inflammation or peri-implantitis.


The gum pockets are great places for bacteria to hide. As they feed, they produce acid that gets stuck to plaque, resulting in decay. But bacteria also inhabit the gum pockets of teeth that have been replaced by prosthetics and may cause inflammation there, as well. As with natural teeth, infected gums will swell and bleed, and prolonged exposure to acid can erode the metal implant post.


At its worst, peri-implantitis can dissolve the bone holding implants in place. This outcome is particularly unfortunate because an implant needs to be removed if it becomes mobile or more than 10% of the surrounding jaw tissue is lost in the first year after placement. However, if the infection can be caught in time and reversed, implants can stimulate the production of new jaw bone growth.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Saturday, August 4, 2018

Consequences of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth (xerostomia) can be one of the most insidious oral health problems. It increases the likelihood of oral infections and can disrupt a patient’s sleep and comfort. At the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we want our patients to understand the consequences of this condition and what can be done about it.


Saliva helps to control oral infections in two ways. It washes away food debris, depriving fungus and acid-producing bacteria of nutrients. It also maintains the pH level of the mouth, neutralizing acids. In the absence of saliva, patients are more vulnerable to developing bad breath and may have trouble tasting food and swallowing.


There are several potential causes of dry mouth, including an autoimmune disorder and diabetes. It is also a common medication side effect, particularly in cancer and psychiatric medications. Dry mouth presents a particular challenge to people undergoing dental extractions, who may be put at risk of developing a dry socket. There are several over-the-counter throat moisturizers that can help, as can stimulating saliva by chewing sugar-free gum. But if the problem persists, we can prescribe stronger rinses that mimic the effect of saliva.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Jaw Tumors

Not all unusual growths in the mouth are cancerous, but they can still cause problems. At the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we use state-of-the-art tools to safely extract oral cysts and tumors, which can be disruptive to the surrounding jaw tissue.


An odontoma is an abnormal growth made up of the make kinds of material found in healthy teeth, such as enamel and dentin. In fact, odontomas could sometimes be mistaken for teeth if not for their unusual locations. Odontomas are the most common kind of jaw cysts, but like the others, they are linked to certain genes and can cause misalignment in teeth, pain, and difficulty swallowing. Other cysts and tumors are made of different materials.


With our piezosurgery tools, we can remove cysts and tumors with minimal risk to surrounding tissues while the patient is numbed and sedated. To ensure we understand the problem correctly, it will be necessary for some of the tumorous tissue to be assessed for cancer. We often deal with oral cancer and work closely with patients’ oncologists, but in most cases, unusual jaw growths are benign.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Alveoplasty for Dentures

As part of the preparation for restoring patients’ teeth, we at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania sometimes must reshape the jaw ridge. This procedure is known as an alveoplasty, and it’s done to ensure that a denture or fixed bridge will be comfortable, stable, and not set patients up for bad oral hygiene.


After using our CT scanner to assess the patient’s current jaw shape, we’ll numb and sedate them. Gum tissue in the area where the bridge will eventually go will be cut away, exposing the jaw bone. Our office uses piezosurgery tools, which are extremely precise and allow bone tissue to be filed smoothly without endangering the surrounding nerves. The patient will not feel vibrations from the instruments and the surgical site will be constantly cleaned during the procedure. After the surgery, the gums will be sutured and allowed to heal.


It will usually take a few weeks for a patient who has undergone an alveoplasty to be ready for a denture or fixed bridge. We will want to be certain of the jaw ridge’s final shape before fabricating a prosthetic. By filing down the ridge, we can be sure that there will be enough vertical dimension for the replacement teeth and that the denture’s base will not be in an awkward concave shape that would trap food.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Tuesday, July 10, 2018

Extraction Site Preservation

If a patient is missing teeth due to tooth extraction, or facial trauma, it’s important to fill the empty space where the natural tooth once lived. Since wisdom teeth are located in the back of the mouth, the site from extraction will heal on its own with no complications. However, if it’s necessary for other teeth to be removed, plans must be made to fill the empty space. Fortunately, the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania have plenty of options for you to choose from.


If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone will degenerate and change shape during healing and can cause your teeth to shift. This can create problems in your bite and affect your ability to speak and chew. Depending on your individual needs, one of our doctors can determine if you would benefit from dental implants or another method of treatment to restore your smile. Once a recommendation is made, a treatment plan will follow.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or extraction site preservation, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Saturday, July 7, 2018

Digital X-rays Benefit Patients

Digital X-rays provide excellent comfort than traditional X-rays and reduce radiation exposure. Additionally, these types of X-rays allow the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania to magnify images for greater diagnostic accuracy for more timely and appropriate surgical treatment. Digital X-rays dramatically reduce the harmful chemicals such as lead and silver that are released into the environment and provide various benefits to the patient.


Our digital X-ray system is designed with the patient in mind and is much more sensitive to radiation. This is because a digital X-ray provides nearly 80% less radiation than a standard X-ray. Additional patient advantages include avoidance of chemical processing errors, which means that our doctors will be able to take a closer look at the teeth and surrounding structures with astounding accuracy.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or digital X-rays, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Friday, June 29, 2018

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

As providers of biopsies, we at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania work with patients who are battling cancer. Facing a diagnosis of cancer does not mean that a person’s oral health should be neglected, but it can create complications in the form of osteonecrosis of the jaw. We want our patients to be able to understand why cooperation between oral surgeons and oncologists is so important.


Osteonecrosis of the jaw is when exposed jaw bone tissue dies. It can happen as a result of herpes or severe periodontal disease, but is usually a side effect of undergoing dental extractions while on bisphosphonate medication. These treatments are used to slow bone disintegration in people with osteoporosis or who are undergoing cancer treatments such as radiation and steroid use. Some symptoms of osteonecrosis include pain, swelling, and the failure of gums to heal after extractions.


While osteonecrosis may sound terrifying, it is often responsive to conservative treatments such as antibiotic rinses. It is also a very rare problem and not particularly associated with implant placement. But because there is no good way to predict whether someone will suffer osteonecrosis, it is important for patients to share with their oncologists whether they expect to need significant dental work and to have tooth extractions done early in their cancer treatment.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Uses of a CT Scanner

The offices of the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are fully equipped for our patients’ diagnostic and treatment needs. One of the most important pieces of equipment we have is the computed tomography (CT) scanner. This kind of x-ray allows us to see the patient’s bone structure in much greater detail than can be done in most dental practices.


Typically, x-rays only allow a few views of a person’s mouth. By contrast, the CT scanner rotates around the patient's head, capturing images from every angle. This is important because the success of implant placement depends on where they are put and how much bone structure the patient retains. Following implant placement, the patient will need to periodically undergo imaging tests to ensure the bone and implant are integrating. If they are not, the implant must be removed. During apicoectomies, use of a CT scanner is also necessary to locate the tips of tooth roots. Often, an initial root canal fails because it did not account for an unusual tooth shape.


 The use of a CT scanner presents very little risk of radiation exposure to the patient. It takes less than a minute, is painless, and does not require any special preparation.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Impacted Tooth Exposure for Orthodontics

When a tooth is impacted, this simply means that it’s stuck and not able to erupt and maximize function. The problem with impacted teeth is that they often become infected, and may cause significant bone loss, resorption of roots of adjacent teeth, as well as gum recession. If a patient requires orthodontic treatment, but exposure is necessary to make room for the brackets, our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania can perform this procedure.


In a simple surgical procedure performed in our office, the gum on top of the impacted tooth will be lifted upward to expose the hidden tooth underneath. If a baby tooth is present, it will be removed as well. Once the tooth is exposed, one of our oral surgeons will bond an orthodontic bracket to the exposed tooth. The bracket will have a miniature gold chain attached to it which will allow the oral surgeon to guide the chain back to the orthodontic arch wire where it will be temporarily attached. Once the patient is stitched up, shortly after surgery they will return to the orthodontist.


If you have questions or concerns about oral surgery or impacted tooth exposure for orthodontics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Saturday, June 9, 2018

Risks Associated with Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect any of the working parts of the mouth or oral cavity. This includes the lips, the tissue that lines lips and cheeks, teeth, the tongue, gums, and the roof of the mouth. Oral cancer may also reside in the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and considers oral cancer screening to detect problems early when they are easiest to treat. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we can examine these areas and treat concerns accordingly.


If you smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol or have a poor diet, changing these habits can decrease the chances of developing oral cancer. Also, if you’ve had oral cancer before, you may be more likely to develop it again, so keeping up with regular dental visits is important. If you notice mouth ulcers that do not heal, pain when swallowing, a sensation that something is stuck in the throat, or pain in the neck or ears that isn’t going away, schedule a consultation with one of our doctors to treat the problem.


If you have questions or concerns about oral surgery or oral cancer, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Why are Teeth Extracted

When a patient needs a tooth pulled, there’s nobody better in the Philly area than the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. But why do teeth need to be extracted, anyway? There are a number of possible reasons and we want our patients undergoing extractions to understand why it is in their interest.


Sometimes, teeth are severely infected. In these cases, they would usually undergo a root canal and we provide apicoectomies, or root tip replacements, when an initial root canal fails. However, even this may not be enough for the most stubborn infections, and some patients have a compromised immune system which prevents them from fighting off an infection in time to prevent it from entering the bloodstream. It may also happen that the gums are infected and are unable to keep the teeth stable. These cases require the assistance of a periodontist, or gum disease specialist, but they may not be able to stabilize the teeth. A tooth that has suffered a cracked root would also need to be removed since that injury does not heal.


Sometimes teeth are also removed due to overcrowding. This is often the fate of wisdom teeth. If canines or lateral incisors are impacted, they would usually be exposed so an orthodontic bracket can be glued to them and they can be guided into position, but this may not be practical if there are other alignment issues.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Thursday, May 24, 2018

Zimmer Biomet Dental Implants

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we utilize Zimmer Biomet Dental Implants to restore a smile that is missing teeth. Biomet Dental Implants can help improve a patient’s quality of life by minimizing oral bone loss, preserving natural facial appearance, reducing the potential to compromise adjacent healthy teeth, and restore self-esteem and confidence. If you desire to replace your missing teeth, talk to us about Zimmer Biomet Dental Implants.


Biomet Dental Implants caters to a patient’s ever-changing needs. The dental implant process involves several steps that take place over a time period that ranges from four to nine months. After a careful evaluation, one of our doctors will determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Once you reach a final decision, he or she will guide you through the placement process. With proper oral care and maintenance, dental implants will last for ten years or longer.


If you have questions or concerns regarding dental implants, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Friday, May 18, 2018

National Arthritis Month

May is National Arthritis Month, and at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Philadelphia, we want our patients to understand how arthritis can impact their dental health. People with arthritis have higher frequencies of periodontal disease, and if it’s not brought under control, they may wind up losing teeth and needing replacements.


The phrase “arthritis” refers to several different diseases which cause joint inflammation. Of the two most common types, osteoarthritis is caused by wear-and-tear over time but rheumatoid arthritis is the result of the body attacking its own cells. Studies have found that rheumatoid arthritis is more highly correlated with tooth loss. The reasons for this are not entirely clear. Any disease which interferes with patients’ ability to grasp a toothbrush is going to be correlated with gum disease, but rheumatoid arthritis seems to have common genetic factors with severe periodontal disease and there are similarities between the cellular structures of the gums and joints.


Fortunately, there is also evidence that oral care can reduce periodontal disease, even in people with rheumatoid arthritis. People who have difficulty grasping ordinary toothbrushes may try an electric alternative. If Sjögren’s Syndrome is interfering with their saliva production, they might want to try artificial throat moisteners.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Saturday, May 12, 2018

Soft-Tissue Biopsies

Biopsies are an important tool for diagnosing lesions and malignancies in patients. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, a biopsy will be necessary to identify oral cancer. If you have an increased risk of oral cancer in your family history, as well as a history of mouth sores or dental abscesses, discuss an oral biopsy with our doctors to lessen your risk.  


When an oral biopsy is required, one of our doctors will remove the symptomatic soft-tissue and run it through a series of tests. Anesthesia will be administered beforehand, for the patient’s most optimal comfort. Once the tissue is sent to the laboratory, a pathologist will look for signs of cancer cells. If the results test positive for malignancies, we will discuss the next few phases of treatment.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Friday, May 4, 2018

Lip Biopsies

It is sometimes necessary when diagnosing a patient to take a biopsy, or tissue sample. At the offices of the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we take biopsies of the tongue, mouth, and lip. There are various diseases which could affect these body parts which patients need to be aware of, and this week we’re looking at lip biopsies.


Two of the most common diseases lip biopsies are tested for are oral cancer and Sjögren’s syndrome. Lip cancer is a type of oral cancer and can be recognized by the persistent ulcers, lumps, and discoloration it causes. Fortunately, lip cancer has much higher survival rates than other types of oral cancer due to the ease of detecting it and applying treatment. Diagnosing it requires a sample of the suspicious tissue to be cut away. Sjögren’s syndrome is an inflammatory immune disorder which causes dry mouth and dry eyes. In order to test for it, a biopsy needs to be taken of the salivary glands. There are several of these on the inside of the lower lip which can be plucked easily after the patient has been numbed (and hundreds more throughout the mouth). Once a few glands have been removed, the lip may be sutured. It is recommended that patients do not take anti-inflammatory medicine in the weeks prior to getting a biopsy and that they stick to soft, non-sticky foods until they have healed.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Thursday, April 26, 2018

Missing Incisors

At the offices of the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we provide people with replacements for missing teeth. When most people hear this, they probably think of teeth that have been lost to injury or infection, but prosthetic teeth are also of great value to people whose teeth never developed at all. In about 2% of the population, the upper lateral incisors, which are the flat teeth on the sides of the two front teeth, fail to erupt.


Fixing this problem requires collaboration between the oral surgeon and an orthodontist, particularly when the incisors exist but never descended through the gum line. In these cases, it may be necessary for the oral surgeon to cut into the gum tissue and expose the teeth and attach brackets. The incisors may then be guided into place with wires  by the orthodontist.  But when the teeth are absent altogether, they have to be substituted. If an orthodontist is able to make enough space, the incisors can be replaced with several different kinds of prosthetics depending on the patient’s needs. These could be anything from fixed single implants or bridges to removable partial dentures. If the patient decides to go that route, it is very important for them to wear their retainer, or else their teeth may shift into a position that won’t work with the denture or bridge.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Monday, April 16, 2018

Smoking after Oral Surgery

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania don’t need to lecture you on why you shouldn’t smoke, as you are probably already aware of the consequences. Smoking after an oral surgery procedure, however, is a definite restriction. Having a tooth removed is already an unpleasant experience and smoking will only aggravate the healing process.


If you have to smoke, we ask that you please try to wait as long as possible after your procedure to do so. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots that are forming as part of this process. As a result, dry sockets will form and a dry socket is associated with intense pain around the extraction site. Lighting up a cigarette is not worth the complications.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Saturday, April 14, 2018

Avoiding Oral Infection

Any kind of surgical procedure carries the risk of infection, but by following the post-operative instructions that you will receive from the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, you should have a smooth recovery and no complications at all. Preventing an oral infection after a surgical procedure is critical to the healing process. Successfully doing so will keep you out of the dental chair.


If a patient undergoes tooth extraction, he or she will not be able to brush, rinse, spit, or use mouthwash for 24 hours after the procedure. To avoid infection, it’s necessary to keep the mouth as clean as possible. The next day, rinse every two hours with salt water and be careful about irritating the extraction site. Additionally, avoid foods that irritate the wound and take medication as directed.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Wednesday, April 4, 2018

Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

A bone graft procedure is done to replace missing bone in a patients mouth.  The doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania use a bone graft to strengthen jaw bones in preparation for dental implants.


Missing a tooth for an extended period of time can leave the jaw bone vulnerable and compromise its structure.  When a patient needs an implant for a permanent replacement tooth, a bone graft reinforces the jaw bone so it is strong enough to handle the placement of an implant. 


In our practice, we use a processed bone grafting material and graft to the compromised area of the jaw bone.  This strengthens the weakened bone, and encourages growth of new bone material as it heals.  After the procedure, the bone graft will be monitored over the course of months.  When the jaw bone has strengthened enough to handle the placement of an implant, our doctors can move forward with the patient’s plan of care.


To learn more about bone grafting and all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Everyone has a set of wisdom teeth behind their visible molars, but this set of ‘final molars’ often stays impacted.  Some patients experience these teeth beginning to erupt, usually between the ages of 17 and 24.  Even when that happens, there is not enough space in the mouth for these wisdom teeth to grow, which is why the doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania typically recommend extraction. 


Keeping wisdom teeth too long can cause oral discomfort, headaches, damage the surrounding teeth and put a patient at risk for infection. If you experience swollen or tender gums around the wisdom teeth, jaw pain, or facial swelling, give us a call. We can determine if you need your wisdom teeth removed, and discuss sedation options and procedure with you.  The procedure will include stitches and some down time, but following instructions, a patient’s recovery shouldn’t take more than a week.


To learn more about your wisdom teeth and all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Preparing for Oral Surgery

Knowing what to expect before your oral surgery procedure with the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, can ease your anxiety and effectively guide you through an easy recovery. If you have any questions or concerns before the procedure, don’t hesitate to call us. We will provide as much information as possible to make you calm and comfortable.


The night before your procedure, confirm your transportation arrangements. For those patients going under general anesthesia, you will need to have a friend or family member accompany you to your appointment so that they are able to drive you home once the surgery is complete. In addition, you will be required to fast before oral surgery. It is required to stop consuming food and beverages eight  hours before your appointment.  


If you have questions or concerns about oral surgery, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Thursday, March 8, 2018

Sectioning Teeth

When tooth extractions are difficult, patients come to the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted, but when it is impacted or has very large, curved roots, a more complicated extraction process may be necessary. Those extractions often require the tooth to be sectioned.


Sectioning a tooth means splitting it up and removing the individual pieces. This requires less force than trying to pull the entire thing out at once and is less likely to hurt the jaw bone. Often, this is done during wisdom tooth extractions. While drawings of molars conventionally represent them as having two roots, the upper ones often have three and can be tricky to pull, especially when they are at an angle. By drilling them into pieces and pulling out each section, we eliminate the need to twist them around, lessening the chance that a root will break off. This also means there are fewer ligaments anchoring each section. Sectioning a tooth does not make the extraction process painful for patients; they are kept numb and a steady stream of water prevents the drill from overheating.


Drs. Bahram,Richman, Mohan and Dieu operate at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania at 2546 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19145. To schedule an appointment, call 215-463-4141 or visit Oral Surgery PA and fill out a contact sheet.


 

Friday, March 2, 2018

Coronectomies

We provide wisdom tooth extractions at the offices of the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania in the Philly area, but there are times when an alternative is necessary. When wisdom teeth are impacted, their large crowns need to be removed because they threaten to push the other teeth out of alignment and because partially-erupted crowns pose a risk for oral hygiene. However, there are times when the crown is the only part of the tooth that needs to be removed.


Wisdom teeth are located close to the inferior alveolar nerve, which controls feelings in the chin and lower lip. They are also near the lingual nerve, which controls the tongue. If the teeth are at a very strange angle, the roots may be so close to these nerves that removing them would pose an unacceptable risk of damage to the nerves. In these cases, our doctors will cut back a flap of gum tissue and drill off the exposed crown. The roots would then be sealed and smoothed, and the gum flap sutured. This process is less strenuous on the patient than a complicated extraction. It is usually done on patients who are old enough to have fully developed tooth roots. Should the roots erupt later, they will be far enough from the nerves to be extracted safely.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.


 

Friday, February 23, 2018

Apicoectomy Following a Failed Root Canal

When root canals fail, patients find relief at the offices of the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. An apicoectomy is a treatment done after a root canal was unable to remove a dental infection. It is a minor bit of surgery that can save a patient’s tooth, and potentially their life.


The most common reason for root canals to fail is that the vessels in the tooth roots branch in a way that was unexpected and the doctor doing the root canal was unable to remove all the infected material. If the tooth’s crown had already been replaced with a prosthetic, a second attempt to drill into it may be too damaging. In those cases, it would be simpler to cut away a flap of gum tissue near the root of the tooth and observe the infection at the apex of the root. The apex and surrounding infected material can then be cut or drilled away. The apex of the root is replaced with a filling and the gum flap is sutured up.


While some soreness is expected after an apicoectomy, the sutures can usually be removed after a week. Patients are kept numb during the actual procedure, which is done using micro tools to minimize collateral damage. Patients usually resume normal activities within two weeks.


The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA or call 215-463-4141.

Saturday, February 17, 2018

Thank You for Your Testimonials!

The doctors and staff of Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania appreciate feedback from our patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Suhee Y. for this five-star review, but we would like to thank her for accompanying her friend to her wisdom teeth extraction appointment. If you recently experienced exceptional service from us, please let us know!  


“My friend has been having major pain with her wisdom teeth for a while now and she finally made an appointment to take care of it. Let me tell you...she is DEATHLY afraid of dentists...even the thought of going for a consultation will make her cry. Well, that being said...we drove out here on early Friday morning for her appointment at 8:30 am.


We arrived about 20 min early so we checked in and waited. The women at the front desk were SO friendly and kind. They were very sympathetic to my friend. At 830am, she was called in and I walked back there with her. The dental technicians were SO INCREDIBLY nice and patient with my friend. I’m a customer service snob and these ladies exceeded my expectations!


 My friend had two of her upper impacted wisdom teeth pulled. I knew the procedure was standard but damn! It only took them around 15 minutes to complete!!! My friend was in no pain. When we got her home, I made sure to check in with her from time to time. She said that she felt really good and that she was very happy. AND it was so damn affordable (it made my friend skeptical at first).” –Suhee Y.

To leave a review or learn more about the services we provide, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.

Friday, February 9, 2018

Bite Collapse

People in need of an oral surgeon have often suffered extensive wear to their teeth. When teeth are worn down or absent, the patient may experience bite collapse, which is also known as loss of vertical dimension. Since fixing this is one of the most important aspects of what we do, we want to make sure our patients understand how it affects them.


Vertical dimension loss doesn’t only occur when tooth enamel is eroded; it can also occur when the front teeth are tilted outwards and back teeth are missing or broken. The loss of bite dimension is often evident from the appearance of the patient’s face, which may be wrinkled and have a mouth that is disproportionately small compared to the surrounding features. It also can be the cause of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), which causes pain throughout the head, neck, and shoulder and can lead to more tooth grinding.


If your teeth are worn down extensively, your dentist might refer you to Oral Surgery Consultants of Pensylvania for extractions.  After healing, you would follow up with your dentist for any restorative work.


 


Drs. Bahram, Richman, Mohan and Dieu operate at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania at 2546 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19145. To schedule an appointment, call 215-463-4141 or visit Oral Surgery PA and fill out a contact sheet.


 

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

Your First Visit

Our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are dedicated to making your experience with us a memorable one for all the right reasons. When visiting our office for the very first time, you may find the process similar to visiting your general practitioner. This is because your initial appointment will consist of a consultation, where you and our doctor will reach a diagnosis and discuss treatment options.


During your first visit, there are some things we don’t want you to forget. You’ll need to bring your surgical referral slip from your dentist or periodontist as well as any X-rays if applicable. If you don’t have X-rays, we will take them for you. In addition to those items, we will need to know which medications you are taking at the moment, as well as your insurance card and a form of ID. Please alert our office before surgery, if you have a medical condition that may be of concern. All patients under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at the consultation.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or appointment scheduling, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Saturday, January 20, 2018

Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are an excellent option for patients who have missing teeth. Dental implants not only restore the aesthetics of a smile, they restore the function of a smile because once dental implants are placed, you’ll notice an improvement while eating your food and you may even have the urge to smile like never before. Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts. Our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania understand that this procedure may seem frightful, which is why we are here to ease your fears.


Dental implant surgery is performed in stages and before surgery, our doctors will discuss sedation options that best suit your needs. First, the implant, that looks like a screw is placed into the jawbone. Over the next two to six months, the implant and bone will need to bond together in a process called osseointegration. Once this takes place, you will visit your restorative dentist for placement of a crown.


If you have questions or concerns regarding oral surgery or dental implants, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenum is a muscular attachment between two tissues, and the procedure of removing this attachment is called a frenectomy. The doctors of Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania perform frenectomies to correct a number of issues patients may have with their teeth, lips, and tongue.


One frenum is located underneath your tongue, and removing this is called a lingual frenectomy.  Patients that have an enlarged frenum underneath their tongue may not be able to move their tongue freely.  This interferes with speech and is often called ‘tongue tie’. Lingual frenectomies are typically performed on very young patients, who can recover quickly and continue to develop their speech.


Another frenum in your mouth connects the inner surface of the lip with the gum. These are present between both the top and bottom front teeth. Removing this attachment is called a labial frenectomy. Patients who have receding gums can benefit from this procedure, because a strong frenum from the gum to the lip can cause extra pulling on the gums and lead to further recession.


To learn more about frenectomies all the services we offer, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141.