Note: Periodontics and oral surgery are considered separate specialties and we utilize both depending on the case and extent of treatment. Sometimes we may utilize both even though they do provide similar procedures, such as implants. Where aesthetics is involved, a periodontist may be referred so we can work together.

Tooth Extraction

The most common form of oral surgery is tooth extraction. Removing a tooth is usually done when it is severely decayed or fractured or there is advanced gum (periodontal) disease. Depending on the best procedure necessary to remove a tooth, we may refer you to a specialized oral surgeon, particularly if general anesthesia is required.

Jaw Reconstruction

Corrective jaw surgery refers to procedures we use to correct various types of problematic jaw conditions. Any facial skeletal or dental irregularity that causes functional difficulty, such as problems eating, TMJ pain, or inability to close the jaw may indicate a need for jaw reconstruction procedures. Other issues, such as bite (occlusion) abnormalities could necessitate jaw reconstruction. In some cases of sleep apnea, chronic mouth breathing, and excessive tooth wear, jaw reconstruction can be a corrective solution. Injury, development irregularities, and birth defects also contribute to the problems mentioned above.

At Michael S. Yung DDS we perform full mouth rehabilitation to correct many of these problems. In some special cases we will refer you to an oral or maxillofacial surgeon that we work closely with if more extensive treatment is required.

Oral Cancer Screening

Early detection of oral cancer is so important. That’s why as the front line for this disease, we believe in the importance of having the best tools for screening.  We use a special state-of-the-art light scope, called the Sapphire Plus Lesion Detection, which can be highly effective in identifying early lesions. It provides enhanced visual information so we can better detect and diagnose the presence of cancer or pre-cancer. It can find lesions that are not visible under white light. This is a routine part of the complete visual and physical exams we perform in our practice. When suspicious lesions are noticed during a routine exam we will do a preliminary biopsy, called a brush biopsy, to sample the suspicious tissue.

Based on the results, Dr. Yung will prescribe the best treatment which may include referral to a specialist he works closely with.

Implant Crowns

These are specifically designed to go over implant abutments (the part that sticks out of the gums) which are usually anchored to the implants themselves. This procedure is done here in our office.

Implants

Implants are definitely the wave of the future for dentistry. The procedure is safe and causes very little discomfort if at all. Having an implant placed where a tooth has been missing can help preserve bone in that area while restoring your chewing function. Compared to a bridge, it also saves having to drill on neighboring teeth to replace a missing one. In our office we do promote implants and will provide the necessary referral to the oral surgeon or periodontal specialist to place the implant. After that, I would restore the implant with a new crown by matching it in color and shape to the rest of your teeth.