Patient – Page 2 – Dr. David Todd, Oral Surgery

Category: Patient

Restore Your Smile With Dental Implants | Oral Surgeon in Lakewood NY

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In recent years, dental implants have become a preferred method for replacing missing teeth. Implants help to maintain healthy bone and soft tissue support, improving the overall look of your facial profile. Surely their biggest advantage is that they feel and function like natural teeth! 

Oral Surgeon in Lakewood , NY 14750

While implants may be the best solution for your smile’s reconstructive needs, there are various considerations to assess to determine the best treatment plan for you. Here are a few of the factors our team will review with you when you come in for a consultation:

Current Bone Health

The state of your oral health plays a significant role in getting dental implants, especially when it comes to the bone health where your implants are to be put in. If you’ve had bone loss in the past or if you’ve gone years with missing teeth, the bone structure in those locations may not be dense enough to support an implant. In these cases, our experts will explore a bone graft to create a stable foundation for your future implant. 

Your Gum Health

Periodontal (gum) health is just as important as the bone underneath when it comes to getting dental implants. Infected gum tissues around an implant often lead to bone damage and implant failure. If you have periodontal disease, it needs to be treated before you can get dental implants, even if it’s in another area of your mouth. It’s also important to keep up with your oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to make sure your mouth stays healthy in the future. Our thorough consultation will assess the overall health of your teeth and gums to ensure your implant procedure is safe and successful.

Are Missing Teeth Undermining Your Smile? 

Modern dental implants can replace teeth lost to through age, accident or decay, and restore your beautiful smile. Our oral surgeon can provide you with estimated costs, a customized treatment plan, and answer all of your questions about dental implant options. Schedule a consultation with our 14750 oral surgeon today.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
120 Southwestern Dr., Lakewood, NY 14750
Lakewood , NY 14750

Orthognathic Surgery: Is it Right for Me? | Oral Surgeon Near Me

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Many dental issues including overbites, underbites, and teeth crowding can be treated using traditional methods such as braces and Invisalign. However, there are some cases where skeletal or structural irregularities are best addressed by a more invasive approach to treatment. In those situations, our office may suggest orthognathic surgery.

Lakewood , NY 14750 Dentist

Understanding orthognathic surgery

Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is performed when problems with teeth and bite alignment cannot be corrected through traditional orthodontic treatments. While the word “surgery” may sound complex, in fact, many orthognathic surgeries are performed as routine, in-office procedures. For example, wisdom teeth removal is considered a very common type of orthognathic surgery that can be performed in as little as 45 minutes!

What types of dental professionals perform orthognathic surgery?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform orthognathic surgeries. These surgeons have completed four years of dental school, and four additional years in a hospital-based residency program. In addition to advanced training, these professionals are also the only medical practitioners besides anesthesiologists who can administer all levels of sedation and general anesthesia.

Who is a good candidate for orthognathic surgery?

Generally, patients who have tooth misalignment, jaw issues, or facial asymmetry problems that cause difficulty chewing, talking, sleeping, or carrying on routine activities, may benefit from having orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery can also address certain cosmetic concerns and medical conditions, including:

·         Protruding jaws

·         Congenital defects such as cleft palate

·         Unbalanced facial features

·         Open bite, protruding jaw or receding chin

·         Malocclusions (bite problems)

·         Obstructive Sleep Apnea

·         Chronic mouth breathing and dry mouth

If you experience difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing, have speech problems, chronic jaw or TMJ pain, you may be a good candidate for orthognathic surgery.

Prioritizing your smile and your oral health

Our office offers various treatment options to effectively address the health and cosmetic concerns that arise from misaligned teeth and/or jaws. Orthognathic surgery is proven to address a number of health issues, while also restoring the functionality of your smile.

If you have more questions and are wondering if orthognathic surgery is right for you, contact our office for a consultation. Our Lakewood oral surgeon can provide you with a thorough exam and explore the best treatment options for your specific symptoms and concerns.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
120 Southwestern Dr., Lakewood, NY 14750
Lakewood , NY 14750

Considering Wisdom Teeth Extraction? Here’s What to Expect | Lakewood, NY 14750 Oral Surgeon

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Having your wisdom teeth extracted may feel like a daunting prospect, especially if you’ve never had oral surgery before. You likely have a list of questions about what to expect before, during and after the procedure. While some anxiety about wisdom teeth extraction is perfectly normal, our dental team is here to walk you through the process and put your concerns to rest.  Here are some of the most frequently asked questions around wisdom teeth removal:

 Q. Why do my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

A. While every patient is unique, you likely need your wisdom teeth extracted to avoid the risk of impaction. Impaction occurs when there is not enough space inside your mouth to accommodate emerging teeth, causing them to grow in at an angle. When this happens, it can lead to overcrowding, discomfort and even plaque build-up and periodontal disease.

Q. What should I expect before surgery?

A. Before your procedure you will consult with your oral surgeon. During this meeting, you can ask questions about the surgery, discuss any pre-existing health concerns, and decide on anesthesia options.

 Q. How long will the procedure take?

A. Most procedures take no more than 45 minutes. You should plan to have someone drive you to our office and drive you home and it is a good idea to take time off from work or school so you can rest at home following the surgery.

 Q. What should I expect after surgery?

 A. Most people experience minimal discomfort after wisdom teeth extraction. You’ll likely have some swelling for a few days, and our office will provide you with a list of foods to eat and those to avoid while your mouth heals.

Wisdom teeth removal is a very safe procedure that millions of people undergo each year. Doing your homework and getting all of your questions answered in advance will help you make an informed decision about your own procedure.  If you still have unanswered questions or you would like more information, please contact our Oral Surgeon office in Lakewood, NY 14750 today to schedule an evaluation.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
120 Southwestern Dr., Lakewood, NY 14750
Lakewood , NY 14750

What To Expect From A Bone Graft | 14750 Oral Surgeon

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Having a damaged or missing tooth can cause self confidence issues for many. With modern dental implant technology, it is easier than ever to replace your missing tooth. Before you get an implant, the oral surgeon will need to make sure you have a sufficient jawbone. If you don’t, you might be an ideal candidate for a bone graft. A bone graft helps to increase bone density and the strength of your jawbone. Once the bone grafting is complete, your jawbone will be strong and dense enough to support an implant. 

Uses For Bone Grafts 

Bone grafts are used to accomplish the following treatment goals: 

  • Saving Teeth. Severe periodontal disease can cause bone loss. The bone around the tooth can be regenerated in order to save the tooth. This increases bone support and helps keep teeth in place. 
  • Tooth Extraction. Bone grafting material can be placed in a tooth socket after the tooth has been removed. This gives you the option to replace the tooth with a dental implant. 
  • Dental Implants. A realistic looking dental crown can be attached to a small titanium post embedded in the jawbone. This gives you a permanent replacement to your lost tooth. 

If you need a bone graft before receiving a dental implant, this will be done in stages. You can’t receive the bone graft and implant all in one visit. 

The treatment time frame can vary depending on the size of the bone graft and implant. If you have a missing or damaged tooth but your jawline isn’t strong enough or dense enough for an implant, a bone graft is a great treatment option. Call our Oral Surgeon in Lakewood office today to learn more and schedule your consultation.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
120 Southwestern Dr., Lakewood, NY 14750
Lakewood , NY 14750

Oral Surgeon Lakewood | How Sedation Dentistry Can Help Reduce Your Dental Anxiety

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If the thought of going to the dentist makes you feel anxious, you’re not alone. An estimated 13-24% of people around the world have some level of dental anxiety. For some, the nervousness they experience can be so severe that it’s classified as dental phobia. Ultimately, the way you feel about the dentist’s office can prevent you from having access to the care you need and deserve. 

If you need dental treatment but are holding off because of fear of the dentist, sedation dentistry could be the answer you’ve been looking for. 

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety encompasses any level of fear, nervousness, apprehension, or stress that a person may experience when they’re in a dental setting. Fear of visiting the dentist often results in delaying or avoiding dental treatment completely. As a result, your dental health issues may worsen over time which leads to lengthier and more complex treatment needs. Ultimately, a vicious cycle is created out of expanding oral health issues and a lack of treatment. 

How Can Sedation Dentistry Lower Dental Anxiety?

Sedation dentistry is more than “being put to sleep” for a dental procedure. Rather, it’s a process where we work with you to choose a sedation process to best help you relax at a level that’s appropriate for your treatment needs. You may feel as if you’re sleeping, or only drowsy, depending on the type of sedation that is administered. Sedation medications range from a pill or liquid that you swallow, nitrous oxide inhalation (laughing gas), or an intravenous (IV) drip. Our office will help you determine the best type of sedation for your anxiety level and past dental experiences.

Don’t let the fear of the dentist’s office be the source of your dental problems. Our sedation dentistry services provide you with the most comfortable care experience possible, whether you suffer from mild anxiety or severe dental phobia. To learn more about our sedation options, request a consultation today!

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
Url: https://dwtodd.com/
120 Southwestern Dr.
Lakewood, NY 14750

Lakewood NY Oral Surgeon | Quitting Smoking Can Decrease Your Risk of Implant Failures

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The dangers of smoking have been prevalent for a very long time. Lung disease, periodontitis, and tooth loss are all but a few common side effects of this habit. For many adults who are looking to replace a lost tooth, dental implants have become a viable option. Even for those who have been life-long smokers, implants offer a cosmetic restoration to their smile. Nevertheless, if you smoke or are thinking of smoking in the future, you should be aware of the fact that this habit can cause your dental implants to require replacement sooner than necessary.

The dental implant failure rate is noticeably higher in those who smoke compared to those who do not.  In general, about one percent of all dental implants fail in those who do not smoke. Alternatively, studies show the dental implant failure ratio for those who smoke is above 15 percent.  Dental implants are made of titanium and supplementary materials that are entirely well-suited with our bodies. Titanium is known to attract bone cells which will grow and adhere to the post over time. This strengthens the implant within the mouth. However, complications arise when the patient smokes.

Nicotine adversely impacts the health of teeth through blood vessel constriction, dry mouth and pocket formation within the gums. As blood flow is reduced, the body loses its ability to fight disease and infection. Smoking decreases the rate at which bone grows throughout the entirety of the body, including the mouth and face region. Smoking also damages the mouth’s salivary glands, drying them out to the point that there is minimal fluid remaining to wash away bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Not surprisingly, most dentists believe that smoking adversely curtails the likelihood that the implants will heal properly, let alone last. The surgically impacted area simply cannot get the necessary healing nutrients it needs to recover.

Dentists offer differing opinions as to whether to fit smokers with dental implants. Nonetheless, doctors all agree that the best way for dental implants to last is for the patient to exercise good oral health. Not only will regular brushing and flossing help, but so will quitting the smoking habit altogether. Giving up smoking before your scheduled implant surgery will provide a healthy foundation for your new teeth to thrive for years to come. 

If you would like more information on dental implants, please contact our oral surgery office or schedule an appointment for a consultation. We look forward to helping you smile with confidence again. 

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
Url: https://dwtodd.com/
120 Southwestern Dr.
Lakewood, NY 14750

Oral Surgeon Lakewood | Healthy Smile, Healthy Body

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Good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. What you might not know is that research has found the health of your mouth actually mirrors the overall condition of your body. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a direct relationship between gum disease and many serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The good news is, research also shows that good oral health may actually help prevent certain diseases from occurring.

Understanding the mouth/body connection

Poor oral habits can cause bacteria to build up on your teeth, making your gums more prone to disease and infection. When that happens, your immune system goes to work attacking the infection, leading to inflammation and gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontitis and chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on the rest of your body, leading to a host of health problems. Thankfully, this “worst-case-scenario” is easily preventable. Here’s what you can do to elevate your oral hygiene habits and keep unwanted health concerns at bay:

  • Brush twice a day for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to choose a toothbrush that is the right size for your mouth so you can reach back teeth easily. If you have any questions about which toothbrush, we recommend for you, you can ask Dr. Todd Oral Surgery during your appointment.
  • Remember to replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
  • Choose an American Dental Association-approved fluoride toothpaste to keep teeth free from decay.
  • Floss daily to remove tooth decay-causing bacteria that tend to linger between teeth. Regular flossing also helps remove plaque under the gumline and minimize your risk of contracting gum disease.
  • Eat a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks.
  • Avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products, which are known to contribute to gum disease and oral cancer.

In addition to maintaining good daily oral health habits, seeing your dentist regularly is one of the best ways to keep your mouth – and your body – healthy. These exams allow our Lakewood oral surgeon to monitor any changes to your teeth and gums and make recommendations that will help you avoid future health problems. Call Dr. Todd Oral Surgery today to schedule an exam.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
Url: https://dwtodd.com/
120 Southwestern Dr.
Lakewood, NY 14750

Best Oral Surgeon Near Me | Oral Surgeons: The Facial Experts

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When most people think about oral surgeons usually the first thing to come to mind is removing wisdom teeth. However, with extensive knowledge and experience, oral surgeons have the ability to treat a wide array of areas from medical to cosmetic. Oral surgeons train and learn in different areas of the medical field to become experts on nearly all of the different possible dental and facial needs you may have. Learn more about oral surgeons’ training and how they might be able to benefit you.

How Oral Surgeons Reach Their Positions

Did you know that oral surgeons are the only dental specialists recognized by the American Dental Association who are surgically trained in a hospital-based residency? Oral surgeons must complete a 4-year minimum hospital-based residency program focusing on facial skin, bone, and muscle. This training allows them to train alongside general surgery, internal medicine, and emergency specialists to name a few. Oral surgeons also learn and train extensively in anesthesia (general and local) and sedation, and how to properly administer them to patients.

How Can an Oral Surgeon Help You?

Oral surgeons specialize in numerous areas related to face, mouth, and jaw surgery. With both medical and cosmetic specialties, oral surgeons may be able to assist you with something you had not expected previously. While specialties can vary from surgeon to surgeon, most can treat a variety of areas including, but not limited to:

  • Wisdom teeth
  • Corrective jaw surgery
  • Tooth extractions
  • Cleft lip and palate
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Oral, neck, and head cancer

With a multitude of specialties, oral surgeons can treat areas and issues you may not have previously thought of. If you have any questions for our Lakewood team, or would like to learn more about us, visit us online or contact Dr. Todd Oral Surgery today.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
Url: https://dwtodd.com/
120 Southwestern Dr.
Lakewood, NY 14750

Dental Implants in Lakewood | Oral Surgeons Can Help You with More Than Just Wisdom Teeth

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For many of us, the only time we’ll think of an oral surgeon is when we need to get our wisdom teeth removed. While this is definitely a valuable service they provide, there’s a whole lot more you need to know about oral surgery. Read on to learn more of the ways that oral surgeons help people every day.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are different from other dental specialists in many ways. For instance, apart from anesthesiologists themselves, they are the only healthcare specialists who can administer all levels of sedation up to general anesthesia.

Because oral surgeons are focused on treating problems related to the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth and jaws, it is normal to be referred to one by your general dentist or orthodontist for a number of reasons.

Tooth extractions are one of the most common procedures oral surgeons perform. While many dentists are knowledgeable on this subject too, an oral surgeon is usually called in when complications (such as impacted teeth) arise.

Corrective jaw surgery is sometimes needed when orthodontics can’t correct a malocclusion alone. Oral surgeons often work with orthodontists to plan and carry out surgery that reshapes, repositions or realigns jaws and teeth.

These specialists can also perform reconstructive surgery after a traumatic injury to the face or other dental issues. This can happen due to an accident, injury, birth defect or the performance of another operation. Experts in working with both hard and soft tissues, oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in reconstructing facial structures.

Oral surgeons may also be called upon to help with bone grafting required for proper dental implant placement, or as a consult on obstructive sleep apnea cases. The wide range of clinical experience they possess means that oral surgeons can help with just about anything related to your face and mouth.

If you’re ever in need of an expert in oral surgery, our office, Dr. Todd Oral Surgery, is just a phone call away. If you’ve already been referred to our office by your dentist, we look forward to meeting you.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
Url: https://dwtodd.com/
120 Southwestern Dr.
Lakewood, NY 14750

Implant Dentist in Lakewood | What to Do Before Your Dental Implant Surgery

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Dental implant surgery is a fantastic solution for patients who are missing teeth and can provide results that look and feel completely natural. While many people consider the surgical recovery process most important, what you do before your surgery is just as important to ensuring you heal quickly and properly. Follow these pre-op tips and help make your surgery as smooth as possible.

Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco Products

We know this may be difficult for some of our Lakewood patients, but alcohol and tobacco products will have a negative effect on your healing process. To ensure that you heal fully and properly, you should avoid these products for a few weeks both before and after your surgery.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene

Prior to your surgery, make sure you brush and floss like you normally would. Ensuring good oral health keeps oral bacteria under control. This prevents complications such as infection from occuring during the surgery.

Take Care of Business

You want to make sure that your recovery period is filled with rest and healing. To help make this possible, you’ll have to make like a boy scout and prepare yourself. In the time leading up to your surgery we recommend that you

  • Pick up your medications
  • Purchase anything you might need, such as soft foods or dental products
  • Clean up around your home

Clean and Comfortable 

Make sure you get a good night’s sleep before your surgery so you can be as rested and relaxed as possible. Our Lakewood team also recommends wearing loose, soft clothing to make sure your surgery is as comfortable as possible.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you want to learn more about dental implants, and whether or not they could be right for you, contact Dr. Todd Oral Surgery today. We’ll help you make smart decisions regarding your oral surgery and you dental health options.

Dr. Todd Oral Surgery
Phone: (716) 484-8091
Url: https://dwtodd.com/
120 Southwestern Dr.
Lakewood , NY 14750

Location

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Lakewood

120 Southwestern Drive
Lakewood, New York 14750

Office Hours

Monday: 8AM-5PM
Tuesday: 8AM-5PM
Wednesday: 8AM-5PM
Thursday: 8AM-3PM
Friday: 7:30AM-4PM

Contact Us

Schedule an Appointment
(716) 484-8091

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