Stem cells are used and harvested during a variety of oral surgery procedures, such as:

• Bone grafting. Stem cells are often used in bone grafting procedures to encourage regeneration of lost bone tissue. 
• Wisdom teeth extraction. During the wisdom teeth extraction, Dr Miyamoto would place stem cells into the extraction site to help promote fast healing.

Benefits of Using Stem Cells in Oral Surgery

There are many benefits to the use of stem cells in oral surgery, such as: 

• Faster recovery. Numerous studies have shown that when stem cells are used in oral surgery, patients experience accelerated healing and faster recovery rates. 
• Aids in regeneration of tissues. Stem cells can help lost tissue to regenerate, or grow back. Because stem cells can become any type of cell, they take their cue from the enzymes and hormones that naturally occur in that part of the body, becoming whatever type of cell is needed. 
• Helps to repair damaged tissues. Tissue that is damaged from infection, such as gum disease, can be repaired more effectively with help from stem cells. This includes soft tissues such as receding gums and hard tissues such as alveolar bone. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Stem Cells 

Are stem cells safe?

The use of stem cells is a safe procedure with minimal risks and side effects. The results have been overwhelmingly positive when used with oral surgery. 

Fullerton Oral Surgery Uses Stem Cells 

Fullerton Oral Surgery stays consistently up to date with advanced techniques and best practices in the field, which is why we use stem cell technology in procedures when appropriate. We have seen the benefits firsthand in our patients, the faster recovery and positive outcomes that result from this method. 

 

To learn more, call 714-525-1178 or contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

 

What Are Impacted Teeth and Why Do They Need Extraction?

Evolution has rendered wisdom teeth unnecessary in humans, and about 85 percent of these third molars eventually require removal because of tooth crowding, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS). Trapped in the gums, impacted wisdom teeth may lead to dental problems such as pain, infection or misalignment of other teeth.

Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

 

Wisdom teeth are the last to erupt and typically do so between the ages of 17 and 25. But according to the American Dental Association, they may grow sideways, emerge only partially or remain completely trapped under gum and bone, which either produces no symptoms or causes:

• Swollen, red, tender or bleeding gums
• Swelling around the jaw
• Bad breath
• An unpleasant taste in the mouth near the affected area
• Headache or jaw ache
• Occasional difficulty opening the mouth
• Occasional swollen lymph nodes in the neck

How are Impacted Wisdom Teeth Diagnosed?

To diagnose impacted wisdom teeth, dentists look for swollen gums or signs of infection such as tenderness, redness and drainage, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). They also inquire about symptoms and regular oral cleaning habits. A diagnosis can only be confirmed with dental x-rays, which may also indicate damage to other teeth or the jawbone.

Surgical Options

Some impacted wisdom teeth don’t require removal, but symptomatic cases usually need surgical extraction by a dentist or oral surgeon in an outpatient setting. Local or general anesthesia may be used, depending on the severity of the condition. First, an incision in the gums is made and any bone blocking the impacted tooth is removed before the tooth itself, according to the Mayo Clinic. Afterward, the incision is stitched shut and the empty tooth socket is packed with gauze.

Wisdom Teeth Oral Surgery may be delayed if a wisdom tooth is already infected, in which case a dentist would likely prescribe antibiotics and wait a week to 10 days before proceeding.

After Surgery

Patients are sent home with instructions for diet modifications and other measures to help manage the expected post-surgical pain and swelling. Complications are unusual, but may include:

• Infection of the tooth or gums due to bacteria or trapped food
• Sinus damage near upper wisdom teeth
• Dry tooth socket or bone exposure
• Weakened lower jawbone
• Nerve damage to the lower lip, chin or tongue

Patients who develop any post-surgical complications should contact Dr. Miyamoto immediately by calling our Fullerton, CA office at Fullerton Oral Surgery Phone Number 714-525-1178.

Risk on Non-Removal

Because bone is more flexible in people under 30, wisdom tooth removal may be simpler before then, according to the NIH. Some impacted wisdom teeth never need removal if they don’t cause dental problems, although AAOMS research indicates that even third molars that erupt in a normal, upright position may be as disease-prone as impacted ones.

Impacted teeth that are not removed may lead to serious complications, including:

• Cyst development around the tooth that may gouge the jawbone and damage adjacent teeth
• Infection of the tooth or gums
• Chronic mouth discomfort
• Misalignment of teeth
• Plaque caught between teeth and gums