Getting Implant Supports for Dentures

Do you have multiple teeth you need repaired or replaced? Are you concerned that standard dentures wouldn’t provide you with enough comfort and function? We at the Oral  Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania hear those concerns all the time. One of our solutions is the implant-supported denture. This device stabilizes a denture, while still allowing it to be removed for convenient cleaning.

If a patient is a good candidate for implants, they will be inserted into the patient’s jaw and allowed to integrate with the surrounding jaw bone over a period of a few weeks or months. But implants that support dentures don’t require the patient to have as much jaw bone tissue as single-crown implants, either because the implants are smaller or angled differently. This means a person is less likely to need a bone graft and the implants may integrate with the bone more quickly.

While the implants integrate, the patient may wear a temporary denture. Once the implants have stabilized, your dentist will attach abutments to them that will allow them to snap onto the patient’s custom-fitted denture. The patient will remove the denture each night and brush it, as well as their mouth, but during the day, the denture will not be at risk of slipping and will not need to suction onto their natural palate. Implant supports can be used with both full and partial dentures.

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

 

What Are Impacted Canines?

Did you know that our canine teeth are also known as “eye teeth?” It may sound strange, but there’s actually a logical explanation for the nickname: the canines are simply aligned with the position of our eyes. Our canines are important for biting and guiding the rest of the teeth in position when you close your mouth. Canines also have the longest root compared to the rest of your teeth, making them the last to erupt. Sometimes canines fail to erupt properly, which causes problems for the capacity and appearance of your mouth. We at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania offer surgery for individuals with impacted canines. Any of our experienced oral surgeons can help get your canines in the correct position!

An impacted canine simply means that the tooth has failed to erupt through your gums. Some of the causes of impacted canines include:

- Cysts: abnormal growths on the gums

- Overcrowding: when teeth are squished together from lack of space in the mouth

- Extra teeth: when an additional tooth occupies the space where the canine is supposed to erupt

- Ankylosed: when the canine tooth root is intertwined with the surrounding bone

There are some additional signs of an impacted canine to look for. This includes the presence of a palatal lump, the delayed eruption of the canine (usually after 15 years old), and the absence of a labial canine lump. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s possible that you have an impacted canine. Call one of our offices today and we can get you started on the road to treatment!

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania is located across the PA area. We have offices in Folsom, Clifton Heights, and two offices in Philadelphia. Please visit oralsurgerypa.com for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our offices.

 

Oral Bacteria in Aging Populations

Oral hygiene is crucial for the preservation of teeth and the integration of implants. At The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we’ve seen a lot of people safely through the entire tooth replacement process. But as people age, their risk of oral health complications increases, which is why we wanted to provide some information about the connection between oral bacteria and overall health in the aging population.

Older Americans have higher rates of tooth decay than any population except young children. According to some estimates, 64% of them have periodontitis, which is the more advanced form of gum disease. People with periodontitis experience jaw bone deterioration, which makes their teeth likelier to come loose, migrate, or fall out. Their mouths also lose vertical dimension, causing bite problems. But oral bacteria will not necessarily remain confined to the mouth. They may enter the bloodstream through the dental pulp, an abscess in the gingival tissue, or through the lungs, and cause inflammation throughout the body. This would cause other prosthetics and replacement body parts, such as heart valves, to be at higher risk of premature failure. Oral bacteria that migrated to other parts of the body have also been implicated in rheumatism and Alzheimer's Disease.

It is certainly worthwhile for older people to maintain their regular brushing and flossing. They may want to consider electric toothbrushes and enlarged toothbrush grips. People with dry mouth may also want to use sugar-free gum to increase their saliva production and reduce their intake of sugary drinks, such as iced tea, sweetened coffee, and fruit juice. 

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

Frenectomies

Are you bothered by misalignment or sensitivity in your upper front teeth? Your dentist may have told you that you have a problem with your frenulum. If so, there’s an easy solution. At the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we provide frenectomies, working in concert with a patient’s regular dentist and orthodontist. This simple procedure allows people to more easily pursue other oral treatments and maintain their hygiene, leading to stronger, healthier teeth.

The labial frenulum is the strip of connective tissue that attaches the inside of the upper lip to the gum tissue of the upper jaw. There are a few ways in which an unusually shaped one can cause problems. One is that if it is too thick and low, it may force the front teeth apart. This would result in a diastema or “gap teeth,” which may cause a person to whistle while they speak and force other teeth in the upper jaw out of place. Another problem is that if the frenulum connects too tightly, it may pull the gum tissue upwards, causing it to recede from around the roots of the upper incisors. The frenum may also frequently get injured while the patient brushes their teeth.

 When we determine that a frenectomy is necessary, we will work with the rest of a patient’s oral care team to plan when to perform it. In orthodontic cases, this might be after or near the end of treatment, when the gap has proven itself resistant to correction.  The patient will usually receive localized anesthesia during the procedure, and we will take care to minimize scarring, allowing them to achieve a comfortable, functional, and beautiful smile.

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

Your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your jawbone to your skull at your temporal bone. It’s necessary for talking, chewing, and swallowing. You need it just to open your mouth! If you experience pain or discomfort when doing any of those tasks, you may have a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). 

 

TMD is caused by stress, along with the clenching and grinding of the teeth and jaws (bruxism). Other possibilities are facial trauma or inflammatory conditions.

 

The common symptoms of TMD:

• Jaw becoming stuck in an open position


• Difficulty chewing and opening your mouth


• Ear pain, accompanied by headaches


• Popping or clicking noise when moving the jaw


• Teeth grinding

 

The biggest factor for TMD is teeth grinding. Many people do it without even realizing it! When you grind your teeth, your top and bottom rows scrape against each other. This wears down your enamel and exposes the dentin. Dentin is incredibly sensitive, causing discomfort and pain.

 

For short-term relief, apply hot/cold packs to the affected area. Do this in 15-minute intervals for the best results. You should also take over-the-counter pain medications. Sometimes, a nightguard is needed. This prevents your teeth from grinding against each other while you sleep. 

 

 

Senior Dental Care

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we believe that a healthy life is a happy life! Having a consistent dental routine keeps you this way. Proper oral health is increasingly important as you get older. Just like all your bones, your teeth weaken with age. Patients over the age of sixty are at risk for developing periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, and extraction. Proper dental care and appointments for senior citizens is a necessity. Call our offices today in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, PA, to schedule an appointment.

 

It’s common for older people to struggle with certain physical tasks. Even flossing and brushing become challenging. That’s why the dental professionals at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania recommend electric toothbrushes. These thoroughly clean your teeth and gums, while using minimal physical effort. It’s great for elderly patients. Electric toothbrushes are an affordable and healthy option. If you or an older loved one struggle to brush the back parts of the mouth, try elongating the toothbrush handle. Doing this makes it an effortless process. You can do this with materials found around the house. Anything flexible will work. Common items are foam, rubber, and even tongue depressors. Another helpful tip: consider switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush. These are gentler on your teeth and gums. You can also find toothbrushes specifically for senior citizens.

 

If you live with or take care of an elderly individual, help them with their oral health. Talk to a dental professional about assisting them with their dental routine. You also might need to remind them to brush and floss. Schedule and bring your loved ones to their dental appointments. This is important for elderly patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s. They might not know or remember to schedule an appointment. We know that dental care can be expensive. That’s why most communities provide dental services for older patients. Talk to your local social services or public health office.

 

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are located across the PA area. We have offices in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. To schedule an appointment with any of these offices, visit our website.

Denture Stomatitis

Do you notice red bumps developing on the roof of your mouth and at the corners of your lips? If so, that means you have an oral yeast infection. This hygiene problem is particularly likely to happen to people who wear dentures, which is why we at The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania want our patients to understand how to prevent it.

The candida species of fungus are always present in the mouth and are generally harmless. But they can grow out of control when an upper denture is not removed and cleaned regularly. If a denture doesn’t fit well, it may irritate the tissue of the upper palate. But more often, yeast simply grows as much as it can in a place where there’s no saliva to wash it away or subject it to antimicrobial enzymes. Yeast can also grow in the corners of the mouth if they are perpetually damp. An infection is referred to as “stomatitis,” and although it may cause redness, patients do not always feel it.

Although people are at greater risk for stomatitis if they have diabetes or use inhalers, better oral hygiene is usually all that’s necessary to prevent it. Patients should remove their dentures each night and clean them with soap or a non-abrasive denture paste. (Fluoridated toothpaste will scratch dentures' plastic.) Patients should also brush their gums and the roofs of their mouths and scrape their tongues.

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

Bad Breath

Halitosis, or bad breath, can be a chronic condition. As providers of dentures, we at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania take seriously signs of poor oral hygiene and related issues. A dentist can be a crucial ally in a patient’s fight against bad breath and the infections that are usually behind it.

Bad breath is a symptom of lots of ailments, but the odor usually comes from bacterial growth. Bacteria may be hiding in the papillae of the tongue, in gum pockets, and on the undersides of dentures or between dental bridges and the gum line. Diabetes, which damages blood vessels, increases people’s risk of gum infection. Another issues is acid reflux, which erodes teeth while also introducing foul-smelling gas into the oral cavity.

Improved hygiene will go a long way toward combatting bad breath, which can be seen as a precursor to gingivitis. Patients might also want to try using mouthwash and tongue scrapers, sucking on sugar-free candy, and if they suffer from acid reflux, refraining from red meat, alcohol, and citrus juice before bed. Sometimes the problem could be as simple as chemicals from garlic entering the lungs via the bloodstream, but consulting with us can help pinpoint the problem and ensure that oral prosthetics are in good working order.

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

Bite Checks

Bite checks are an important part of any patient’s dental examination, but they’re particularly important for people with dentures or who are undergoing facial reconstructive surgery. We want to ensure that all the patients at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are getting satisfactory use from their prosthetics, and to do that, we need to determine whether a patient’s jaws are aligned and functioning correctly.

During every dental examination, patients are asked to demonstrate how they bite down. We use panoramic digital x-rays to see how a patient’s teeth are fitting together, along with a visual examination. If a patient with dentures is developing a cross-bite or an overbite, we’ll need to adjust their prosthetics. (Patients should not attempt to reshape dentures on their own.) Ordinary drift in natural teeth’s position may also require us to adjust partial dentures, and we’ll monitor changes in the size of a patient’s jaw bones to ensure their teeth still have enough vertical dimension.

When doing a bite check, dentists are also looking for signs of temporomandibular joint disorder. Artificial teeth can get worn down by bruxism, and while we can restore them, it would be better for a patient to wear a night guard. An implant that has come loose has to be replaced, so it’s especially important to keep pressure off of it.

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

Surgeries for Cleft Palates

A cleft palate is a major health issue that takes significant expertise to correct. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, our doctors have the training and experience to see each patient through to a healthy smile. Correcting a cleft palate will require time and cooperation with orthodontists, so we want patients’ families to know what to expect.

A gap in the upper palate will result in misaligned teeth. Besides being an aesthetic issue, teeth that are misaligned are difficult to use and clean. An orthodontist will make corrections that will leave a gap where an implant can be inserted, but before a post can be placed, there needs to be enough bone to place it in. The bone tissue used for a maxillary graft could come from several sources; it could be from another part of the patient’s mouth or body, from a donor, or a synthetic material. Regardless, it will take a few months for the new bone tissue to fuse into the cleft.

An implant can be placed into integrated bone tissue, but other prosthetics may be preferable if the patient needs multiple teeth replaced. In some situations, a partial denture may be preferable even after a cleft has been filled in. Children will need multiple surgeries over the course of their mouth’s development, so our doctors are dedicated to each patient’s long-term care.

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.

 

After Dental Implants

After dental implants, it is important that you do not disturb the wound in any way. This includes rinsing, spitting, or touching the afflicted area. Interfering with the stitches heightens your risk for complications. The amount of recovery time may be increased and an infection could also occur.

Patients are likely to have bleeding occur during the first 24 hours after surgery. Control any excessive bleeding with a gauze pad on the wound for upwards of 30 minutes. If you are bleeding for longer, give us a call right away for instructions.

To control the pain when the anesthetic wears off, take general over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol or Aspirin. Your oral surgeon might prescribe a stronger medication as well.

Your diet will consist of softer foods for the first few days. Avoid hotter substances due to teeth sensitivity.

Remember to keep your physical activity to a minimum. Besides the pain, vigorous activity can loosen your stitches. Your restricted diet can also reduce your energy levels. It’s best to rest while you recover.

After the dental implant procedure, you’ll be instructed to come in 24-48 hours afterward. This is just a precautionary measure to confirm that everything is healing properly.

If you have any questions, please give us a call. To learn more about all the services we provide at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. Contact our offices in Philadelphia, Clifton Heights, or Folsom to learn more.

New Patient Information

For our new patients visiting Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania for the first time, we want you to know what you should expect. Your initial visit will consist of a diagnosis of your dental issue and the treatment options. For dental problems that require a quick fix, it might be possible to do the surgery during the same day. More often than not we will need you to come back another day to treat the issue.

 

During your visit please be advised that we will need a list of medications you are taking, completed insurance forms, and a photo ID. X-ray’s will be taken unless you have a copy of your recent x-rays.

 

It is important that you don’t eat or drink 8 hours prior to your scheduled surgery time. Patients under the age of 18 require supervision by a legal guardian.

 

If you have any questions, 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, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, call 215-463-4141.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Your wisdom teeth are the final set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth. When this happens, they will either come in naturally or crowd your gums due to a lack of space. If your wisdom teeth protrude from your gums, they need to be extracted at your local dental office.

 

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we can easily detect wisdom teeth in need of removal. This consists of a physical examination and routine x-rays. In most cases, wisdom teeth erupt at an angle that causes crowding for your teeth and possible damage to your jawbone or nerves. Partially impacted wisdom teeth, those which didn’t fully emerge from the gums, increase your chances for bacteria formation. This leads to a variety of dental issues, such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease.

 

If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain or there are signs of an infection, please give us a call. The earlier we remove your wisdom teeth, the lesser the chance that your teeth will shift and create future problems.

 

If you have any questions, 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, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, call 215-463-4141.

After Removing Multiple Teeth

Extracting multiple teeth is much more complicated than removing just one. It has more side effects, risks, and recovery time. If you have multiple teeth removed, be prepared to adjust your entire oral hygiene routine and diet. You’ll also encounter side effects that include bleeding, swelling, and pain.

 

After your extraction, our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania advise patients to use ice packs for the first 36 hours to limit the swelling. For pain management, utilize over-the-counter medication like Tylenol or aspirin. Your surgeon may prescribe stronger medication if needed. Limit your diet to softer foods and approved liquids. Avoid engaging in any vigorous physical activity. You’ll want to avoid irritating your stitches.

 

It is very important that you don’t rinse your mouth out the first 24 hours after surgery or while there is still bleeding. After 24 hours, use warm salt-water to rinse away the debris and food particles.

 

You can read more about the post-extraction process on our website.

 

If you have any questions, 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, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, call 215-463-4141.

Soft Tissue/Gum Grafts

It may seem redundant, but brushing and flossing every day is necessary for your oral health. Neglecting your dental routine leads to periodontal (gum) disease. The early stages, like Gingivitis, can be reversed. Advanced stages require aggressive treatments like Soft Tissue or Gum Grafts. Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania offer this procedure to our patients. Contact our offices in the Philadelphia, Folsom, and the Clifton Heights areas.

 

An unclean mouth attracts hordes of bacteria, leaving plaque on your teeth. Gingivitis occurs when these bacteria attack the soft tissues or gums. They become inflamed and painful. Eventually, the bacteria create large pockets. Dr. Bahram and his staff can clean these out, but they’ll still be visible. An abnormal amount of tooth structure will be showing. It’s not only aesthetically displeasing but dangerous too.

 

 

A soft tissue/gum graft is the perfect solution. It restores and heals the gums to their natural state of being. Dr. Bahram begins by applying a local anesthetic to the area. He’ll remove healthy gum tissue from other areas of the mouth, like the roof. It’s stretched out and stitched on the injured area. The results are a newly covered tooth. A successful graft encourages new tissue to grow. The end results are a fresh and healthy looking mouth.

 

Following your post-operative instructions is the only way to guarantee a successful recovery. The healing process takes upward of two weeks. Avoid eating harder foods during this time. Do not engage in any form of vigorous exercise. Don’t brush or floss near the treatment site. If you’re worried or experience signs of an infection, contact Dr. Bahram or your physician immediately. Antibiotics may be prescribed.

 

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania have four office locations in the PA area. Contact each office in the Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights areas. Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff are available by appointment. Visit our website to learn more.

Dry Mouth

There’s an endlessly long list of reasons why it’s important to get a six-month dental examination. One of them is to get treatment for Dry Mouth, also known as Xerostomia. It’s a lack of saliva in the mouth. The dryness makes it difficult to talk, eat, and drink. Talking to Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania can get you on the path to treatment. We have four available locations in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Contact us to learn more.

 

Patients with untreated dry mouth experience a lower quality of life. Besides the discomfort of the condition, it can lead to heightened dental problems. The lowered amounts of saliva attract bacteria. It functions like a natural cleansing solution for your mouth. Without it, patients report increased amounts of plaque.

 

Dr. Bahram may ask a few questions to help determine the cause of your dryness. There is a dense amount of medications that can cause dryness. This includes types that treat pain, blood pressure, and even allergies. An autoimmune disorder can also be the case. Sjögren's syndrome is a systematic disease that targets the salivary glands. A side effect of chemotherapy and many cancer treatments results in dryness. Lastly, smoking commonly produces dry mouth.

 

Your recommended treatment varies depending on the root of the problem. This can include eliminating certain foods and drinks from your diet. Sugar is known to dry out the mouth. Cut back on coffee, soft drinks, tea, and alcohol. Talk to your doctor about any medications you take frequently and whether they can be at fault. Try increasing the amount of water you intake too. This should moisten your mouth. There are also products designed specifically for treating dry mouth. Most grocery stores sell different varieties of dry mouth gel. There are also products like toothpaste and mouthwashes that target your symptoms.

 

Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff are available by appointment at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. Our offices are in four separate locations in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, PA. Visit our website to learn more or call today.

What To Do When A Dental Implant Fails

Dental implants are a common surgical procedure where a trained dental professional inserts artificial roots into the jaws. These are then used to replace missing teeth or correct damaged dental devices. It can take a few months to a year to heal from the procedure. But what happens if you don’t recover, forcing the implant to fail? Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania can help. He and his team are available at four different locations in Folsom, Philadelphia, and Clifton Heights, PA.

 

It’s important to keep in touch with Dr. Bahram’s team during the healing process. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact us immediately. This includes the implant feeling loose, pain, swelling or infection, and bleeding. There are factors that can put you at risk. If you are a smoker, it’s best to stop smoking entirely throughout the healing process. Certain conditions like gum disease and bruxism can cause damage to the implant. Osteoporosis diminishes your bone strength, making it difficult for the implant to anchor. Make sure to discuss any daily medications with our staff to ensure there aren’t any negative interactions.

 

Short-term implant failure is simple to treat. Dr. Bahram will remove the damaged implant. But what happens if an implant fails in the long run? If the implant has already healed and been restored, treatment is much more advanced. Common long-term failure is caused by Peri-implantitis. This is a serious and chronic infection in the bone and gums. Treatment varies by patient and severity. Frequent dental examinations are a must, with laser therapy and surgery needed to restore the bone. Antibiotics are used as a supplement to other treatments. Other long-term problems are easier to fix. These usually involve prosthetic issues like fractures or damage.

 

Talk to Dr. Bahram about preventing any complications. Any changes to your health can affect the success of your implant. Keeping up a strict oral hygiene routine is critical. Remember to brush twice a day for at least two minutes. Floss daily as well. Antibacterial mouthwash can reduce the risk of infection by eliminating bacteria.

 

Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff are available at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. We can be reached at four separate locations in Clifton Heights, Folsom, and Philadelphia, PA. To learn more, call or visit our website.

Canker Sores

Canker Sores are one of the most common and hated oral problems in the modern world. They’re painful and irritating, making everyday activities like eating unbearable. Dr. Ramin Bahram and his staff at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania have experience with a triage of oral problems. That’s why we’ve put together a simple guide on Canker Sores and how to treat them. To learn more, contact one of our four locations in the Philadelphia, Clifton Heights, or Folsom areas.

 

Canker Sores are small, yellow or white sores with a red border. They’re often on the soft tissues, like the gums or lips. They come in three distinct forms: minor, major, and herpetiform. Minor, as the name suggests, are small, healing between a week or so. Major sores are quite larger. These can take up to six weeks to heal. Herpetiform appear in clusters of ten to one hundred. They are about the size of a pinprick. If canker sores are severe or reoccurring, visit the dentist or your local physician.

 

There are a handful of naturalistic or holistic treatments for canker sores. Apply ice to the corresponding area on the face. Other remedies suggest placing a wet tea bag over the ulcer. You can also never go wrong with good old-fashioned salt water or baking soda rinse. Combine water with either substance, swishing it around your mouth for a minute or so. Certain studies indicate that there may be a connection between canker sores and nutritional deficiencies. Make sure your diet includes foods that are rich with iron and several B vitamins.

 

Over-the-counter treatment options are also available. Most grocery stores sell a large variety of canker sore relieving products. Benzocaine is a numbing agent used in most of the various gels. Dabbing a small amount of the agent temporarily numbs the canker sores. This gives you a chance to eat or drink pain-free. There are also antibacterial rinses that target canker sores. These clean the area while also soothing the sore.

 

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania provide treatment for all your needs, including canker sore relief. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ramin Bahram and our staff, visit our website or call. We have four offices across the PA area, including Philadelphia, Clifton Heights, and Folsom.

Mouth Guard Usage

Proper use of athletic mouthguards is one of the most important parts of oral health maintenance. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we hate to see a patient’s restorations destroyed and hope that most people won’t need their teeth repaired in the first place. Keeping safe during exercise and sports significantly reduces the odds of a dental emergency.

The better-fitted a mouthguard is, the less bulky it needs to be and the better protection it provides. Athletic stores and online retailers sell boil-and-bite mouthguards, which can easily be adjusted. These are particularly advantageous for kids and people undergoing orthodontic correction, since their teeth are rapidly shifting position. It is also possible to have a permanent, customized mouthguard fabricated, often with a dentist’s input. A properly-fitted mouthguard shouldn’t cause breathing problems.

Mouthguards are mandatory for most organized sports, and dentists also recommend them while cycling, skating, or tumbling. The mouthguard and its case need to be cleaned with each use to prevent oral infections and foul odors, after which they need to be patted dry. They also need to be kept out of high temperatures to avoid accidental reshaping.

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

 

Surgery for Oral Cancer Patients

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are a crucial part of the care team for anyone in the Philadelphia area facing oral cancer. Not only are our surgeons able to perform soft-tissue biopsies, they are also able to assist with the construction of prosthetic teeth and mouth parts a patient may need following the excision of a tumor.

Sometimes tumors can be cut out of soft tissue, such as the tongue or inside of the lip. But when they are inside or behind a jaw bone, a section of the bone will need to be cut away. Following its removal, the section of bone may be reinserted or replaced with a prosthetic or a bit of donor tissue (possibly from another part of the patient’s body). If the hard palate on the roof of the mouth was removed, it can be replaced with a specialized prosthetic that may also include replacement teeth.

The silver lining of bone replacement is that the new bone tissue may be better suited for receiving implants. There needs to be a certain amount of healthy bone for an implant post to fuse with, and bone grafts are sometimes necessary for people who have been without teeth for a long time. A patient’s oncologist will likely want them to undergo a dental examination prior to radiation treatment to determine whether any pre-existing caries will be aggravated and if any teeth are likely to need replacements.

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

 

How Gum Disease is Linked to Arthritis

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are accomplished prosthodontists and often provide new teeth to people with severe gum disease. Periodontitis, the advanced form of gingivitis, can be treated, but it takes regular maintenance to prevent relapses. Recently, scientists have found evidence that it can also cause other diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) differs from some other forms of arthritis in that it is an autoimmune disorder. It causes the immune system to attack synovium, the tissue that lines joints, making the joints painfully swollen. Smoking and family history increase a person’s risk of RA, but scientists recently found evidence that it is triggered by a chemical process called hypercitrullination. During hypercitrullination, the body deforms a large number of proteins, leading to the creation of an excessive number of anti-protein antibodies. The antibodies subsequently turn on synovium cells.

The acid secreted by oral bacteria triggers hypercitrullination as a means of self-defense. Researchers also found some evidence that treating gum infections can reduce RA symptoms. As oral surgeons, our job is not only to provide periodontitis patients with prosthetic teeth, but also to educate them on cleaning their prosthetics so that they won’t suffer further decay. We hope that understanding the connection between gum disease and arthritis will motivate more people to seek treatment and to be diligent about their hygiene.

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

 

Tooth Sensitivity

One nice thing about prosthetic teeth is that you don’t have to worry about sensitivity. But many of the patients at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania have a mix of prosthetic and natural teeth, and we want to ensure their natural teeth are comfortable, as well. If you dread biting into an ice cream sandwich, read on.

Dentin, the layer of the tooth in between enamel and pulp, is made up of small tubes. It is an efficient conductor of heat, particularly if the enamel has a cavity. The tooth roots are covered in an adhesive material called cementum that seals them in the gum pocket, but they have less enamel and are more sensitive if the gum tissue recedes. Although the outer layer of a tooth can be cracked or eroded, sensitivity is usually due to acid.

Infectious oral bacteria secrete acid after metabolizing food particles. Acid may also be regurgitated from the stomach, particularly in patients who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).  Improved brushing can reduce sensitivity, but patients may want to try switching to extra-fluoridated toothpaste to provide their enamel with reinforcement. If enamel mass has already been lost, it will have to be replaced with a prosthetic.

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

 

Oral Cancer Screenings

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we encourage our patients to look for symptoms of oral cancer. Routine checkups for oral cancer should be done every year. The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of treating it without any long-term effects.

During an oral cancer screening, our doctors will look for any lumps or abnormalities in your mouth that may be cancerous.

When possible, we advise our patients to avoid using tobacco as it increases your chance of developing oral cancer. If you consume alcohol regularly you have a higher chance of developing it. Our patients that have a family history of oral cancer or have previously been diagnosed with oral cancer are encouraged to have an exam at least once a year.

Remember to ask for an oral cancer screening or schedule one if you haven’t had one in the last year. If you notice any signs of oral cancer give us a call right away.

If you have questions or concerns regarding oral cancer, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the office, visitwww.eldersburgdentist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kurt B. Linkoff, DDS in Eldersburg, MD, call 410-795-2900. 

Before General and IV Anesthesia

General and IV anesthesia are used for a multitude of oral surgery practices and procedures. At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, Drs. Bahram, Richman, Mohan, and Barunas are skilled at both surgery and anesthesia. You may need general or IV sedation for procedures like wisdom teeth extractions or dental implant placement. Intravenous sedation or “twilight sedation” can also be used for certain procedures or for patients with high anxiety levels.

 

It is important to follow these strict instructions before undergoing anesthesia. Not following these instructions can cause complications during surgery or even result in postponing the procedure. The most important step to follow is that you cannot eat or drink anything for eight hours prior to your appointment. You can’t even have water. Smoking is also a big no. Ideally, you should cut down on smoking before the procedure. At a minimum, do not smoke for at least twelve hours beforehand.

 

You should not drive yourself to or from the office after the procedure. You can’t operate machinery for twenty-four hours following as well. A responsible adult will bring you to the office and take you home.

 

Before coming into the office, try to wear looser fitting clothes. Remove any contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures. Don’t wear lipstick or any makeup. You will need to have at least one finger free of any nail polish or artificial nails.

 

Let our staff know if you are not feeling well leading up to the surgery. These include colds, sore throats, and upset stomachs. Make sure to notify us of any routine oral medications that you take.

 

Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are located in four offices across the PA area. We are located in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, PA. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Bahram, Richman, Mohan, and Barunas, visit our website or call our main South Philadelphia office at 215-463-4141.

Post Surgery Bone Graft

A bone grafting procedure is when there is a missing or damaged tooth that needs to be repaired. Our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania want our patients to know what to expect the days following a bone graft.

Since bone grafts are made up of particles, you may notice some granules in your mouth the days after surgery. While the particles aren’t a cause for concern, there are ways to limit the number of particles that are dislodged. After surgery, avoid rinsing, smoking, spitting, and touching the wound to limit the number of particles. It is important you don’t blow your nose or sneeze holding your nose, make sure your mouth is wide open.

One full day after the bone graft you may brush your teeth gently to clean your teeth and to prevent messing with the repaired area.

Remember to take the antibiotics as shown on the label to start the recovery process. Before you know it your mouth will be back to normal and healed.

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

April 2019: Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Dental professionals are often the first to detect and diagnose oral cancer in patients. That is why it is important that you schedule an appointment with Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania anytime you experience abnormal oral symptoms. Schedule an appointment ASAP with Drs. Bahram, Richman, Mohan, and Barunas when experiencing new symptoms lasting over two weeks.

 

When strange oral symptoms refuse to heal or take over two weeks, schedule an appointment. This is often the first signs of a serious underlying medical problem. Call our office immediately if you notice any of these symptoms:

 

Lumps or hard spots in the mouth, bumps that bleed easily, a strange coloring of the gums, mouth sores or ulcers that take over two weeks to heal, a lump on the outside of the neck that has been there for at least two weeks.

 

When it comes to HPV-caused oropharyngeal cancer, symptoms can differ than other types of oral cancer. These symptoms manifest as a hoarse or sore throat, problems swallowing, a constant cough, and/or pain in one or both ears.

 

There are a few major risks that can lead to oral cancer. Partaking in heavy smoking and drinking is the largest factor. Engaging in other tobacco products, like chewing tobacco, is also detrimental to your health. Another risk is contracting the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus 16.

 

If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, contact Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania immediately. We have four offices located in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights, PA. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Bahram, Richman, Mohan, and Barunas, visit our website or call our main South Philadelphia office at 215-463-4141.

Bone Grafting

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, our staff works daily to supply our qualified patients with dental implants. In some cases, a patient might require a Bone Graft before being eligible. But what exactly is bone grafting?

Bone grafting occurs when a section of the jawbone associated with missing teeth begins to disintegrate. This leaves the bone in poor condition, either not strong enough or large enough to house implants. An x-ray will be taken to determine how much jaw bone is available. Depending on the results, a bone graft will be needed. Thanks to today's technology, our staff at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania have the ability to grow bone where needed. The bone is acquired from a tissue bank, where we determine the necessary size and width. This also gives us a chance to guarantee the functionality and appearance of the graft.

Bone grafting can repair implant sites compromised due to previous extractions, structural damage, gum disease, and injuries. Once everything has been given the all clear, your bone graft surgery will be scheduled.

At the procedure, you will be brought under general anesthesia. An incision in the skin will open up where the graft is being placed. The bone will be put into place, held using: pins, plates, screws, wires, and/or cables. Afterward, the incision will be stitched and bandaged.

Recovery depends on the size of the graft and other health variables. Typical recovery can take place from two weeks to up to a year. Avoid vigorous activities as long as your doctor suggests. Make sure to follow all postoperative instructions received.

If you’re in need of an oral surgeon or bone graft surgery, schedule an appointment with the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania today. Our offices are located across the Philadelphia, PA area. You can visit our website to schedule an appointment, or call 215-463-4141.

 

Impacted Canines

Put simply, an impacted tooth is a stuck tooth that can’t fully emerge from the gums. Most cases of impacted teeth involve the third molar (wisdom) teeth. The second most common teeth to become impacted is the maxillary cuspid (upper eyetooth). At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, our team can help with these canine impactions.

 

The cuspid teeth are crucial for biting. They are designed to be the first teeth that touch when your jaws close together, guiding the rest of your teeth into place. The cuspid teeth are usually the last teeth to come in. Upon impaction, the cuspid will make every effort to reach its proper spot on the dental arch.

 

It is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontics that a panorex screening x-ray and examination be performed on all dental patients by the age of seven years old. This allows the dentist to predetermine any issues with the child's adult teeth. If by ages eleven to twelve the eruption pathway for the impacted tooth is clear, then most likely the tooth will emerge without intervention. If it hasn’t emerged by ages twelve to thirteen than other actions must be taken. Together, your orthodontist and oral surgeon will work with you to achieve the best possible result.

 

The most common outcome will start with the orthodontist placing braces onto the patient's teeth to create space for the impacted tooth. Once the space is clear, the next step is with the oral surgeon. At the surgeon's office, the gum covering the impacted tooth will be lifted. If there is a baby tooth present, it will be removed. A bracket with an attached chain will go onto the cuspid, attaching it back to the orthodontic wire. Shortly after surgery, the patient will return back to the orthodontist. A rubber band will be attached to the chain to gently force out the impacted tooth. It can take upwards of a year for the impacted tooth to fully emerge.

 

Dr. Bahram, Dr. Richman, Dr. Mohan, and Dr. Barunas are available at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania offices across the Philadelphia, PA area. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call one of our four locations.

 

 

Apicoectomy

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, our staff has saved and repaired teeth that are badly damaged or infected. Although we don’t perform root canals, we do perform Apicoectomy. In the cases where root canals are not enough, an apicoectomy is the next step. It is the most common surgery used to save damaged teeth.

 

An apicoectomy removes damaged tissue and seals a tooth’s roots from further infections. The procedure details a small incision made in the gum tissue, exposing the bone and inflamed tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the end of the root tip. A filling is placed to prevent infection, and the gum is sutured closed. The bone will naturally begin to heal around the root after a period of months. Afterward, the full function will be restored. Following the procedure, there may be slight discomfort and swelling while it heals. Follow any post-operation instructions given to you by our doctors. For pain relief, use medications approved or prescribed by your doctor.

 

If you have a tooth infection lingering after a root canal, or suspect something might be wrong, please contact us to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the apicoectomy procedure and our other services, visit https://www.oralsurgerypa.com/ for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bahram, Dr. Richman, Dr. Mohan, or Dr. Barunas in the Philadelphia, PA area, call 215-463-4141.

 

Bad Breath

Bad breath, medically called halitosis, can be caused by bad oral hygiene and could be a sign of more serious health problems. Our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania restore and replace patient’s teeth using dental implants. To perform implants, our patients need to have enough quantity and quality of bone available. The bones in your mouth breakdown when gum disease reaches an advanced state, but halitosis is an early warning sign.

When teeth aren’t brushed and flossed regularly, food particles stick to your teeth and bacteria builds. We encourage patients to practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing. If you always have a bad taste in your mouth, gum disease may be forming because of plaque buildup. When left untreated, gum disease can spread to bones or tooth roots and require a bone graft.

Other potential causes for bad breath include yeast infections and cavities. We advise our patients to practice good oral hygiene such as regular brushing and flossing to prevent bad breath and other infections.

If you have any questions about oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgery.pa.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.

Cleaning a Night Guard

We at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania treat a lot of people who have suffered damage from temporomandibular joint disorder. Many of them damaged their teeth by grinding or clenching them at night. But some people have a lot of success using night guards to avoid tooth damage or protect replacement teeth. Since we want patients to be able to enjoy their teeth for as long as possible, we wanted to provide some guidance on cleaning night guards and preventing oral infections.

Wearers will remove their night guard each morning upon waking up. There are antibacterial rinses commercially available for soaking night guards in, and antibacterial soap and water work well for cleaning, too. But people still commonly brush their night guards to ensure they have removed bacterial build-up. If they do, it is important for them to avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes or toothpaste with extra fluoride, which won’t protect plastic and may even scratch it.

The protocol for maintaining a night guard doesn’t differ too much from maintaining a denture, except for one key thing: a night guard needs to be kept dry. The case it is kept in should be ventilated and should also be cleaned daily with antibacterial soap. When not in use, the night guard should be kept out of extreme heat, which could warp it. A wearer should always brush and floss prior to putting it back in at night.

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

When a Tooth Cracks

Breaking a tooth is scary. While there’s no way to be completely prepared for when it happens, we at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania want people to know that teeth often can be saved, and that getting treatment quickly increases their chance of successful treatment. In this blog post, we discuss what to do immediately after discovering a broken tooth and what treatments are likely.

The molars are the likeliest teeth to break. They are the ones that can normally withstand the force of the patient’s bite, although they may break against something extremely hard. When other teeth are used for chewing, they are much likelier to break or be pushed sideways. If a patient chips or cracks a tooth, they should rinse their mouth with salt water and cover the broken crown with dental wax if they have any on hand, or sugarless gum if they don’t.

A small chip may be repairable with bonding. For this procedure, a dentist would apply and contour an adhesive material onto the tooth. But if the tooth is significantly broken, a dentist may need to reshape it in preparation for an entire new crown. The crown would be custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and cemented over the reshaped natural enamel, which would be left in place to cover the dental pulp. If an x-ray reveals that the tooth is cracked at the root, it will need to be removed. We’ll work with a patient to determine whether an implant or a partial denture would make a better replacement.

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

 

New Patients

At Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we are always looking to grow our family. To take advantage of all the services we offer, we want to give you a better idea of what your first visit with one of our doctors will look like.

First time patients will go through consultation to discuss the diagnosis and treatment options for your surgery. We ask that patients bring us some form of ID, a copy of their insurance x-rays (if applicable), surgical referral slip, and a list of medications you are taking. Any new patients under the age of 18 need a parent or legal guardian present.

Our doctors advise patients that surgery will most likely be performed on the second visit after an evaluation of your medical history and the treatment necessary.

If you have any questions about your first visit, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgery.pa.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.

Avoiding Dry Sockets

We’re proud to say that dry sockets are rare at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania. This complication following a tooth extraction is extremely unpleasant, but it is also avoidable in most cases if the patient follows simple instructions. Although only about 2-5% of people who get extractions suffer from dry sockets, we wanted our patients to better understand them so that if they get an extraction, they won’t be hearing their post-operative instructions for the first time.

A simple extraction is one in which the tooth is rocked until it can be lifted out with forceps. Complex extractions involve gum incisions and may require the tooth to be sectioned. A dry socket can result from either, though it is more commonly from the latter. Usually, blood clots would close off the empty socket, protecting it from irritating debris and pathogens, but sometimes the blood may fail to clot or the scab may come loose. If this happens, the socket will dry out painfully and be at risk for infection.

Three of the biggest risk factors for dry sockets are smoking, birth control pills, and the use of straws. The estrogen in pills can prevent blood from clotting, while smoking can dissolve the clot and suction can pull it loose. We also advise patients to avoid brushing near the extraction site on the first day after the procedure and to avoid solid foods. The socket may be cleaned with a salt water rinse.

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