Q: Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed if they do not bother me?
A: Wisdom teeth that are impacted (stuck inside the gums) or partially impacted are often asymptomatic, which means that they are not bothersome. However, these teeth will likely end up causing severe problems such as infection, damage of the neighbouring teeth (such as tooth decay or bone loss), cysts and other pathologies. The removal of those teeth, and the healing period, is much more predictable before the age of 20. Once your dentist has determined that your wisdom teeth will not completely erupt, it is safer to remove the them sooner than later.
Q: Are x-rays dangerous for my health?
A: At Montréal Maxillo-Facial, we are equipped with digital radiography. These machines use a much lower dose of radiation compared to conventional x-ray machines and therefore greatly reducing risks to your health.
Q: Why do I have to see two different doctors for my implant?
A: There are two phases to dental implant therapy. The first one is the surgical phase which means having the titanium implant placed into your jawbone by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The second phase is the crown or prosthesis being fabricated and placed over the implant. It is recommended that these two treatment phases be provided by two different teams because of the differences in skill requirements and the better results provided by that approach.
Q: What is the life span of a dental implant?
A: With proper maintenance and hygiene a dental implant should last for the rest of your life.
Q: Could one be allergic to dental implants?
A: The material of the dental implants has no allergenic components and is biocompatible with the body.
Q: I am having a front tooth replaced. Will I have a gap during the time of implant placement and crown fabrication?
A: It is possible to have a removable or even fixed temporary denture fabricated for you during the treatment so that you are never left with a gap. Your surgeon will further discuss this with you at the time of consultation.
Q: When could bone grafting be necessary?
A: If teeth and the associated chewing load in the jaw are absent for an extended period, the bone gradually shrinks. If the bone structure is weakened or thin to the extent that there is little or nothing to hold an implant in place bone grafting may be necessary.
Q: Are there risks associated to intravenous sedation?
A: Intravenous sedation is a safe, proven technique used daily in our practice. Only specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery, thanks to their advanced training in anesthesia, can use this technique. Vital signs are monitored closely during the surgical procedure and, although quite rare, we are ready to handle any adverse reaction.
Q: Will it hurt?
A: During the procedure there will not be any pain. However you may feel some level of manipulation, pressure and noises. Intravenous sedation is very helpful to reduce those undesirable sensations.
Q: How much swelling will I have?
A: It is normal to have swelling following a surgical procedure. This will increase for up to 48 hours. It is important to apply ice for those first 48 hours.
Q: Will I be able to eat after the surgery?
A: You should wait until the anesthesia has worn off and then start with a soft diet. When you feel comfortable increase to harder foods.
Q: What can I eat?
A: A soft diet such as ice cream, yogurt, pudding, fish and pasta is recommended following surgery and for the first few days.
Q: Can I return to work or school after surgery?
A: It is preferable for you not to return on the same day as the surgery. Some procedures require a few additional days of rest prior to your return to work or school.
Q: When can I work out again or do physical activity?
A: Again, based on the type of procedure performed we may recommend a few days without any strenuous physical activity.
Q: Is smoking permitted after surgery?
A: Smoking can cause complications and delayed healing following surgery. We recommend not to smoke during that time.
Q: Will the implant set off a metal detector during an airport security inspection?
A: No. Since the dental implants are small like fillings they will not trigger metal detectors.
Q: I see a hole in my gums, should I worry?
A: No. Normal healing of the gums occurs that way. You do need, however, to keep the wound clean until complete healing.
Q: I’m in pain, am I infected?
A: Pain can be a sign of infection but it’s not the only one. Other common signs include redness and warmth of the cheek, new, firm or persistant swelling and pus drainage of the wound.
Q: I have an elevated temperature following my surgery.
A: This can also be a sign of infection but never by itself and not before 48 hours.
Q: My wound tastes bad, is it infected?
A: A unpleasant seeping of yellowish, clear fluid during healing is normal and is not a sign of infection.
Q: I see something white on my gums, is it infection?
A: Probably not. A clot (fibrin) or dental plaque are usually the reasons for that appearance.
Q: My implant is moving!
A: This is usually due to the healing abutment getting unscrewed. Don’t panic. Let us know and keep it to bring with you at your next appointment. In rare cases, an implant can get infected during the healing phase and become mobile. This implant will need to be removed and, if possible, replaced.
Q: I feel nauseous.
A: Cease the oxycodone if you are taking this opioid as it may cause nausea and vomiting. If the vomiting persists you can try taking an over the counter anti-nausea medication such as Gravol in suppository form and continue to use it until vomiting has stopped.
Q: I’m bleeding!
A: Bleeding is an expected consequence following surgery of the mouth. It can last a few days and it’s usually well controlled by applying firm and continuous pressure with gauze. It is exceptional that an additional intervention is needed in this mater.
Q: I’m having trouble opening my mouth.
A: It’s normal. Jaw muscles are sensitive to inflammation. Moist heat, after 48 hours, applied to the cheek can help with return to normal.
