Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to erupt successfully.

These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the tooth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection. The result: swelling, stiffness, pain and illness. The pressure from the erupting wisdom tooth may move other teeth and disrupt the alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid such problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.

Injuries to the Teeth and Surrounding Dental Structures:
Isolated injuries to teeth are quite common and may require the expertise of various dental specialists. Oral surgeons usually are involved in treating fractures in the supporting bone or in replanting teeth which have been displaced or "knocked out". These types of injuries are treated by one of a number of forms of "splinting" (stabilizing by wiring or bonding teeth together). If a tooth is "knocked out", it should be placed in salt water or milk. The sooner the tooth is re-inserted into the dental socket, the better chance it has to survive. Therefore, the patient should see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. Never attempt to "wipe the tooth off", since you may remove remnants of the ligament which hold the tooth in the jaw. These are vital to the success of replanting the tooth. Other dental specialists may be called upon to perform root canal therapy, and/or repair or rebuild fractured teeth. In the event that injured teeth cannot be saved or repaired, dental implants may be utilized as replacements for teeth that are lost.

What are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs where ever teeth are missing.

Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those who have an improper bite because of jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. When this happens it affects chewing, speech, overall oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery is required when the jaws need to be repositioned.

Technology and Orthognathic Surgery:
Dr. Kewitt and his staff use modern techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays and imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you'll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed and to see the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

Trouble with Your Jaw?
TMJ disorders develop for many reasons. You might clench or grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint. You may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, "clicking" or "grating" noise when you open your mouth, or inability to open your mouth widely.
Treatment
There are various treatment options that Dr. Kewitt can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Dr. Kewitt will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care joined with professional care.

Post-Operative Information
After the operation patients may experience slight bruising around the area that quickly fades. Normal activities can be performed immediately. Possible side effects are temporary weakness of nearby muscles or in rare cases an eyelid may droop. BOTOX® Cosmetic is completely reversible so any side effect is only a temporary condition. The doctor will explain all risks associated at the time of your consultation.