Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral and maxillofacial surgery plays a vital role in restoring the health, function, and aesthetics of the teeth, jaw, and facial structures. At Restorative and Implant Dentistry of Bayside, our multidisciplinary approach allows patients to receive comprehensive, coordinated treatment tailored to their specific needs. Prosthodontist Sameet Sheth, DDS works to ensure patients receive the highest standard of care, whether they require simple tooth extractions or more complex reconstructive procedures. By combining advanced technology, proven techniques, and attentive patient-focused care, our practice aims to create a comfortable experience and exceptional results for every individual. 

• What Is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Candidates
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Procedures
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Recovery
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Cost

What Is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, jaws, face, and related structures. This includes both functional and aesthetic concerns, ranging from impacted wisdom teeth and traumatic injuries to corrective jaw surgery and dental implant placement. These procedures often address issues that cannot be managed through general dentistry alone and require the skills of a surgeon trained in the complexities of facial anatomy.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons undergo extensive education and hospital-based surgical training that encompasses dentistry, medicine, and anesthesia administration. This unique expertise allows them to perform a wide range of surgical procedures safely and effectively.

Who Is a Candidate for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

Individuals may be candidates for oral and maxillofacial surgery for a variety of reasons. Typically, patients are recommended for surgical treatment if they:

• Have impacted or severely damaged teeth, including wisdom teeth that cannot erupt properly
• Experience jaw pain, functional issues, or misalignment that affects chewing, speaking, or overall comfort
• Suffer from bone loss that complicates tooth replacement with dental implants
• Have facial injuries, including fractures or soft-tissue trauma
• Require oral pathology evaluation, such as biopsy for abnormal tissue
• Need full mouth reconstruction, which often involves a combination of dental implants, bone grafting, and prosthetic restoration

During your consultation, Dr. Sheth will evaluate your dental health, medical history, imaging, and long-term goals. Patients with complex cases often benefit significantly from an approach that incorporates all aspects of oral function, facial aesthetics, and long-term restorative planning. Conservative options can be explored first, but when surgery appears to be the most effective solution, our team is equipped to guide you through the process.

What Are Common Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Procedures?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses a broad range of treatments, many of which support or enhance restorative dentistry. Common procedures include:

Wisdom Tooth Removal

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, crowding, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth. Extraction is often recommended to prevent these complications.

Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial roots into the jawbone. Dr. Sheth is experienced at designing the final restoration, as well as ensuring optimal placement and long-term stability.

Bone Grafting and Ridge Augmentation

When bone loss prevents implant placement, bone grafting techniques help rebuild the jaw to create a stronger foundation. Ridge augmentation may also improve facial support and aesthetics.

Tooth Extractions

Severely decayed, damaged, or infected teeth sometimes require tooth extraction to protect neighboring structures or prepare for future restorations.

TMJ Disorder Treatment

TMJ disorder treatment often falls under the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, addressing issues that affect jaw function, comfort, and mobility. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve joint therapy, bite correction, or surgical intervention to relieve pain and restore proper jaw alignment.

Corrective Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery

Orthognathic surgery repositions the jaws to improve bite function, facial balance, and overall oral health.

Trauma Repair

In cases of facial injury, oral surgeons may treat fractures, repair soft tissue damage, and restore dental and facial structures.

Each treatment plan can be customized based on a patient’s needs and designed to promote long-term function, comfort, and aesthetic harmony.

How Is Recovery Following Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

Recovery can vary depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. Minor or more straightforward treatments, such as extractions, typically require a few days of healing. More extensive procedures, such as bone grafting, dental implant placement, or jaw surgery, may involve longer recovery periods and more detailed post-operative instructions.

Common aspects of recovery may include:

• Temporary swelling or soreness, usually managed with medication
• Modifications to diet, such as soft foods during early healing
• Limiting strenuous activity for the first few days
• Follow-up visits to track healing and ensure proper progress

Our team can provide clear, thorough instructions to support comfort and proper healing. Open communication and close monitoring by Dr. Sheth can also help ensure that your results are both successful and long-lasting.

How Much Does Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Cost?

The cost of oral and maxillofacial surgery generally depends on the specific procedure, its complexity, the type of anesthesia used, and any preparatory or restorative treatments needed. For example, dental implant surgery, bone grafting, and corrective jaw surgery can all vary in price based on individualized treatment requirements.

During your consultation, you will receive a detailed cost estimate and an explanation of all recommended procedures. Our team is committed to transparency and will guide you through the financial aspects of your care so you can feel confident moving forward with your treatment.

To learn more about oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sheth, please contact Restorative and Implant Dentistry of Bayside today.