Oral and oropharyngeal cancers account for roughly one death every hour in the United States, yet outcomes improve substantially when the disease is found early. During April’s Oral Cancer Awareness Month, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) is encouraging the public to take two simple steps: perform a monthly self-exam and schedule regular screenings […]
Continue ReadingOral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) can use advanced imaging technology to determine the best course of action for wisdom teeth management. These tools allow an OMS to visualize the wisdom teeth (also called third molars) and surrounding structures in detail to diagnose and plan treatment. For example, these images can help show if teeth are […]
Continue ReadingIf you are scheduled to have oral and maxillofacial surgery, proper preparation will contribute to a smooth procedure and successful outcome. Consultation and Evaluation Before surgery, you will have a consultation with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). Your OMS will assess your specific condition and perform a thorough examination of the area of concern […]
Continue ReadingImplant-retained dentures – an alternative to traditional removable dentures that rest on the gums – are fixed directly into the jawbone to provide more stability for everyday activities. Problems With Traditional Dentures Conventional dentures can slip or cause embarrassing clicking sounds while eating or speaking, and frequent adjustments and adhesives can be inconvenient and frustrating. […]
Continue ReadingZygomatic (cheekbone) dental implants offer a solution for patients who may not be candidates for traditional implants due to bone loss in the upper jaw. Unlike traditional implants that are placed in the jawbone, zygomatic dental implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone. They are longer than traditional implants. Benefits include: Efficient and Time-Saving Solutions Bone grafts […]
Continue ReadingAfter dental implant surgery, a proper healing process is essential to ensure the long-term success and stability of the implant. Understanding the healing process can help you prepare and know what to expect as you embark on your new tooth journey. What to Expect After Surgery Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) will provide post-surgery instructions: […]
Continue ReadingDental implants, which may replace a single tooth, several teeth, or a full set of teeth, are composed of multiple parts that work together to provide a functional tooth replacement. Implant Titanium implants – surgically inserted into the jaw – fuse to the bone through a process called osseointegration to serve as an anchor for […]
Continue ReadingMRONJ (medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw) is commonly associated with drugs that prevent bone resorption, such as bisphosphonates, and RANK ligand (RANKL) inhibitors such as denosumab. These drugs are used to treat osteoporosis or cancer that has metastasized to the bone and can interfere with the jawbone’s ability to heal properly after invasive dental procedures […]
Continue ReadingHuman Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. While HPV can spread through direct contact between the genital areas, it also can be transmitted to the mouth and throat. Oral HPV can lead to cancers of the oropharynx (the area at the back of the throat, including the tonsils and back […]
Continue ReadingThe use of tobacco and e-cigarettes can present significant health risks, including oral, head and neck cancers. Among the health concerns: Cigarette smoking is the single largest risk factor for cancer, including head and neck cancer. Smokeless tobacco use appears to be associated with head and neck cancer, particularly oral cavity cancers. E-cigarettes and vaping have […]
Continue Reading