Dental Oral Surgery

Wisdom Teeth Extractions and Maxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom teeth extractions are a common oral surgery procedure, especially for patients experiencing pain, crowding, or impaction. These third molars often emerge at awkward angles, affecting adjacent teeth and causing discomfort. A tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent complications such as infection, cysts, or damage to neighboring teeth.

For more complex surgeries, including cases involving impacted wisdom teeth, maxillofacial surgery may be required. Our experienced team ensures safe and efficient removal using the latest surgical techniques and sedation options for patient comfort.

Additionally, maxillofacial surgery addresses congenital conditions such as cleft lip, which requires precise surgical intervention to restore both function and appearance. We provide customized treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient, ensuring optimal outcomes and a smooth recovery process.

Bone Grafting in Oral Surgery

Bone grafting is often required when the jawbone deteriorates due to missing teeth, a condition known as resorption. This procedure allows the successful placement of dental implants or other restorative solutions by replacing lost bone and encouraging new bone growth. Without adequate bone density, placing a dental implant becomes challenging, making bone grafting a crucial preparatory step for many patients.

Types of Bone Grafts for Effective Restoration

Several types of bone grafts are available, each offering distinct advantages. Autogenous bone grafts use the patient’s own bone, typically harvested from the chin, jaw, or hip. This method provides optimal results since the material is live bone, promoting natural regrowth. Alternatively, allogeneic bone grafts use donor bone that has been freeze-dried and processed to serve as a framework for new bone development. Xenogeneic bone grafts, sourced from animals like cows, undergo high-temperature processing to ensure safety while providing structural support for new bone formation.

Additional grafting options include demineralized bone matrix (DBM), graft composites, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), each designed to enhance bone regrowth through specialized biological processes. Advanced techniques like sonic welding utilize resorbable materials to replace missing bone, providing long-term stability for dental restorations.

Why is Bone Grafting Needed in Oral Surgery?

As mentioned above, bone grafting is needed when oral surgery is seen as an option to address significant bone loss that occurs due to missing teeth. With a bone graft, the doctor can replace bone where it is missing and promote new bone growth. This aids in dental reconstruction when using implants that can restore functionality and esthetic appearance.
A Variety of Bone Grafts for the Best Results

There are different types of bone grafts. This variety of choice allows the doctor and patient to place the right type of bone that will provide the best results. Types of bone grafts and substitutes include:

Autogenous Bone Graft: Autogenous bone grafts, or autografts, consist of your own bone that is taken from another part of your body. Bone is typically harvested in a second, separate procedure from the chin, jaw, lower leg, hip, or skull. Autogenous bone grafts are considered best in that the material is your own, live bone. Autografts promote regrowth of your own bone, but may not be the best option for a patient with other medical risks. The doctor will advise you if it is not in your best interest.

Allogeneic Bone Graft: An allogeneic bone graft, otherwise known as an allograft, uses bone harvested from a cadaver that is processed using a freeze-dry method to extract water using a vacuum. The allogeneic bone cannot produce new bone on its own, but does serve as a type of framework or scaffold over which bone from the surrounding areas can grow in to fill the defect or void.

Xenogeneic Bone Graft: Xenogeneic bone comes from the bone of another species, usually a cow. The bone is processed at very high temperatures to avoid potential immune rejection and contamination. Xerographic grafts, like allografts, serve as a framework for new bone to grow on from the surrounding area in order to fill a void or defect.

Both of these options have the advantage of no second procedure to harvest your bone. However, the bond regeneration may take longer than with autografts, with a less predictable outcome.

Demineralized Bone Matrix (DBM) / Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bone Allograft (DFDBA) Bone Graft Substitutes: These graft substitute products combine an allograft bone, containing collagen, proteins, and growth factors that are extracted from the allograft bone. It may come in the form of a powder, putty, chips, or a gel that can be injected through a syringe.

Graft Composites: These consist of other bone graft materials and growth factors to achieve the benefits of a variety of substances. Some combinations may include:a collagen/ceramic composite (which closely resembles the composition of natural bone), DBM combined with bone marrow cells (which aid in the growth of new bone), or a collagen/ceramic/autografts composite.

Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs): BMPs are proteins that are naturally produced in the body to promote and regulate bone formation and healing.

Sonic Welding: Dental grafting is the most advanced form of grafting when a significant amount of bone has been lost. This revolutionary grafting technique incorporates 100% resorbable, amorphous, non-crystalline poly-D, lactic acid sheets that replace the missing bone place. This allows the most advanced results of any technique when large portions of bone have been lost.

Caring for Your Oral Health After Surgery

Maintaining good oral hygiene following oral surgery is essential for healing and long-term success. Brushing twice daily with antibacterial mouthwash, using dental floss to clean between teeth, and avoiding excessive pressure on treated areas help prevent complications. Patients should also be cautious of allergic reactions to dental materials, ensuring they discuss any sensitivities with their dentist before undergoing treatment.

Regular dental visits allow for the monitoring of crowns, dental implants, and other restorations, ensuring that they remain functional and aesthetically pleasing. With proper care and attention, restorative dentistry can provide lasting improvements to both oral health and overall well-being.

Best Dentists in Charleston with Generational History

At Simpson Dental, we’ve built a reputation as Charleston’s most trusted dental practice through generations of dedication to our patients. Since 1948, our family-led team has been committed to creating lasting relationships with those we serve, delivering care that goes beyond the chair. From the moment you walk into our office, you’ll experience the difference – a warm, welcoming environment, a compassionate team, and an unwavering focus on your comfort and well-being.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has made Simpson Dental a cornerstone of the Charleston community. We’ve proudly maintained a tradition of innovation and trust led by Dr. Mark Simpson and Dr. Christen Simpson Raynes. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are joining our practice for the first time, we’re here to provide the personalized care you deserve. Call Simpson Dental today at (304) 427-6045 or visit our contact form to schedule your appointment. Let us show why Charleston families choose us for their dental care.