Oral Surgery in Lethbridge

At Ivory Dental in West Lethbridge, we provide oral surgery services for patients.

Bone Grafting

What is bone grafting?

Your jawbone can be reinforced and strengthened using a bone graft procedure. Your dentist will use a special bone grafting material, and graft it onto your jaw bone. Over the course of a few weeks or months, you will have to wait while the graft creates enough new, strong bone.

If you are undergoing bone grafting for dental implants, it is possible if you only require a minor graft. This could mean that the procedure might be able to be done at the same time as the implant surgery. A successful bone graft allows your jaw bone to be strong enough to support your dental implant.

We may recommend bone grafting if you have damaged and depleted jawbones, or if you are getting dental implants

Extractions

When might I need a tooth extracted?

We may recommend a tooth extraction if you have an infection.

Why do I need a tooth extraction?

If your tooth has an infection that is damaging the bone or is causing you pain or discomfort, the only option may be tooth extraction.

Our first goal is to save the tooth, but if it is not possible, extraction can prevent further damage from infection. Once the extraction is complete, you then have the option of replacing your missing tooth/teeth.

Procedures such as dental implants and dental bridges are excellent choices for tooth replacement.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

When might I need my wisdom teeth removed?

If your wisdom teeth become impacted, you may need them removed.

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to become fully developed. When the wisdom teeth do begin to emerge, they often become impacted—trapped beneath the gums—because there is little room for them to grow in properly. In cases such as this, we may need to perform a surgical procedure to extract these teeth before they cause serious pain and damage to surrounding teeth.

Usually performed under general anesthesia, wisdom tooth removal consists of carefully cutting away at the gum so that the impacted wisdom tooth can be removed completely.

Gum Grafting?

What is gum grafting?

Gum grafting may be necessary if you have periodontal disease or receding gums.

A gum graft is a surgical procedure that thickens gums and may be necessary to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession. Also, you may choose to have gum graft to improve the appearance of your smile.

How long is the procedure?

Depending on your level of gum recession it can take anywhere from 1-2 hours.

Will I experience any discomfort during the procedure?

During the procedure, you will be completely frozen. Afterwards, you may receive over-the-counter pain medication.

How long is the healing process?

While it may take a few weeks for your mouth to fully heal, you should be able to return to normal activities the day after surgery. Your dentist will give specific instructions regarding postoperative care which are very important that you follow.