Oral surgery

Oral surgery encompasses various procedures to treat conditions related to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. Whether you're dealing with impacted teeth, tooth loss, or preparing for dental implants, oral surgery in Sterling, IL, offers advanced treatment options to help restore oral health and function. Performed by our skilled dentist in Sterling, IL, these surgical procedures are designed to resolve complex dental problems, promote healing, and ensure the long-term success of other restorative or cosmetic treatments. Contact us to learn more.

This comprehensive overview will explore three common oral surgical procedures: surgical extractions, ridge augmentation, and bone grafting. Each plays a critical role in maintaining or improving oral health.

Surgical Extractions

Surgical extractions are necessary when simple extraction methods cannot be used to remove a tooth. This procedure is typically required for teeth that are impacted, severely decayed, fractured, or positioned in a way that makes them difficult to remove. One of the most common types of surgical extractions involves wisdom teeth, which often become impacted and require careful removal.

During a surgical extraction, our dentist in Sterling, IL, makes a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal. Advanced tools and techniques are employed to minimize discomfort and promote efficient healing.

Patients may need surgical extractions for various reasons, including:

• Severe Decay or Infection: When a tooth is beyond repair with fillings or crowns, surgical extraction may be the best solution to stop the spread of infection and relieve pain.
• Fractured Teeth: Teeth broken or cracked beneath the gumline often require surgical extraction to protect the adjacent teeth and jawbone from further damage.

Following a surgical extraction, our dentist in Sterling, IL, provides detailed post-operative care instructions to support healing and prevent infection. Many patients find that surgical extractions are key to alleviating pain, preventing future complications, and setting the stage for future restorative procedures, such as dental implants.

Ridge Augmentation

Ridge augmentation is a specialized oral surgery procedure performed to rebuild the natural contours of the jawbone after tooth loss or bone deterioration. When a tooth is extracted or lost, the alveolar ridge, or the bone surrounding the tooth roots, can diminish over time. This bone loss can affect the jawline's appearance and complicate dental implant placement.

Ridge augmentation helps restore the jaw's function and aesthetics by reshaping or rebuilding the bony ridge that supports teeth. The procedure involves placing a bone graft in the area where bone loss has occurred to encourage new bone growth and provide a solid foundation for future restorations.

This procedure is particularly important for patients considering dental implants. A stable, healthy ridge is essential for the successful placement of implants, as it ensures that the implant has adequate support. Without ridge augmentation, patients with significant bone loss may not be candidates for dental implants due to insufficient bone structure.

Our dentist in Sterling, IL, will assess the condition of your jawbone and determine if ridge augmentation is necessary as part of your treatment plan. While the procedure may require additional healing time, it significantly improves the long-term success of dental implants and enhances the overall appearance of the mouth and jaw.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a common oral surgery procedure used to rebuild and strengthen the bone in areas where it has deteriorated or been lost. It is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced bone loss due to tooth extractions, periodontal disease, or trauma. Bone grafting helps restore the structural integrity of the jaw, enabling future dental restorations such as dental implants or bridges.

During a bone grafting procedure, our dentist in Sterling, IL, places bone graft material in the area of bone deficiency. The graft material may be sourced from the patient's body (autograft), a donor (allograft), or a synthetic substitute. Over time, the graft material integrates with the patient's natural bone, promoting new bone growth and strengthening the jaw.

Bone grafting is commonly used in cases such as:

• Preparation for Dental Implants: If sufficient bone to support an implant is not available, a bone graft can rebuild the bone, ensuring the implant has a strong and stable foundation.
• Periodontal Disease: Gum disease can cause significant bone loss, especially in the later stages. Bone grafting helps regenerate lost bone and can be part of a comprehensive periodontal treatment plan.
• Trauma or Injury: Jawbone loss from injury or trauma can be corrected with bone grafting, restoring both function and appearance.

The healing process for bone grafting typically takes several months as the body integrates the graft material and forms new bone. However, this investment in time and care pays off by ensuring that future restorations, such as dental implants, are successful and long-lasting.

Why Choose Us for Oral Surgery in Sterling IL?

Oral surgery in Sterling, IL, offers patients access to cutting-edge treatments and skilled care in a comfortable environment. The procedures outlined above — surgical extractions, ridge augmentation, and bone grafting — are essential components of a comprehensive dental care plan, helping to resolve complex dental issues and prepare the mouth for long-term restorative solutions.

By working with our experienced dentist in Sterling, IL, patients can expect personalized care that focuses on their unique needs and goals. Whether you seek to improve your oral health, prepare for dental implants, or address ongoing pain and discomfort, our oral surgery services provide effective and lasting solutions.

Conclusion

From managing impacted teeth to rebuilding the bone necessary for dental implants, oral surgery in Sterling, IL, offers a range of procedures to restore oral function and enhance aesthetic outcomes. Surgical extractions, ridge augmentation, and bone grafting are vital procedures that ensure the foundation of your mouth and jaw is strong and healthy, setting the stage for successful future dental work.

Working with our skilled dentist in Sterling, IL, ensures that these procedures are performed with precision, care, and attention to detail, allowing you to achieve a functional, pain-free, and confident smile. If you face complex dental challenges, oral surgery may be the key to restoring your oral health and quality of life.

To schedule an appointment at Dental Care of Sterling, located at 2000 Locust St., Ste. B, Sterling IL 61081, call (815) 625-6842. You can also visit our official website to learn about the various services we provide.