Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaws. It encompasses a wide range of procedures, from complex tooth extractions to corrective jaw surgeries and facial trauma reconstruction. Essentially, OMS blends dental expertise with surgical precision to address issues that go beyond the scope of traditional dental care.

At Gen Z Dentistry, our team of experienced oral surgeons combines advanced training with state-of-the-art technology to offer a comprehensive array of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery services. Whether you're dealing with impacted wisdom teeth, facial pain, misaligned jaws, or facial trauma, we are equipped to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.

Jaw Repositioning (Orthognathic Surgery)

Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw repositioning surgery, is a specialized procedure aimed at correcting discrepancies in the alignment of the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. These misalignments, known as malocclusions, can cause a range of issues, including:

• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Speech difficulties
• Jaw pain or discomfort
• TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorders
• Breathing problems, especially during sleep
• Facial asymmetry or imbalance

During the orthognathic surgery procedure, you will be under general anesthesia for your comfort. The surgery involves making precise incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones, repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both into the correct alignment, and securing the repositioned jaw with small screws, plates, or wires. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures.

Dental Implant Placement

Missing teeth can lead to a variety of challenges, both aesthetically and functionally. Not only can they affect your smile's appearance, but they can also result in difficulties with chewing, speech, and even jawbone deterioration over time. Our advanced dental implant procedures offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts act as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. The result is a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. If you're ready to restore your smile with dental implants, contact Gen Z Dentistry in Glendale, NY, today to schedule a consultation.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. However, due to limited space in the jaw, these teeth often become impacted, meaning they do not fully erupt through the gums. Our oral surgeons specialize in the gentle extraction of impacted wisdom teeth. Whether they are partially erupted or fully impacted, we can safely remove these troublesome teeth to prevent further complications and alleviate your pain.

Cleft Lip and Palate Repair

For individuals born with cleft lip and palate, our skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer comprehensive repair procedures to address these congenital conditions. Cleft lip and palate are common birth defects that occur when the tissues forming the upper lip and roof of the mouth (palate) do not fully fuse during fetal development. These conditions can have significant effects on speech, eating abilities, and facial aesthetics. Cleft lip and palate repair surgeries are typically performed in stages, with the first surgery often taking place within the first few months of life.

Oral Pathology Treatment

Oral lesions and tumors can manifest in various forms, ranging from benign growths to potentially malignant or cancerous conditions. Early identification through thorough evaluation is crucial to prevent complications. Common oral pathologies include oral ulcers, cysts, and oral cancer. Our approach to oral pathology treatment begins with a detailed clinical examination, where our surgeons carefully assess the location, size, and characteristics of the lesion. If further investigation is warranted, a biopsy is performed to collect a small tissue sample for analysis in a laboratory. Following a conclusive biopsy indicating a concerning or potentially malignant pathology, surgical removal may be recommended.

Sleep Apnea Surgery

OSA is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing. This obstruction can result from relaxed throat muscles, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or a narrow airway. Common symptoms of OSA include:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Irritability or mood changes
• Difficulty concentrating

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

UPPP is a surgical procedure aimed at treating OSA by removing excess tissue in the throat to widen the airway. During the procedure, our surgeons will:

• Remove the uvula (the dangling tissue at the back of the throat)
• Trim excess tissue from the soft palate
• Remove or reposition the tonsils if necessary
• Tighten the remaining tissue to prevent collapse during sleep

UPPP is often recommended for patients with OSA caused by excess tissue in the throat or a narrow airway. By removing obstructive tissue, this surgery can significantly improve airflow during sleep and reduce OSA symptoms.

Mandibular Advancement Surgery

Mandibular advancement surgery, also known as maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), is another surgical option for treating OSA. This procedure involves moving the upper and lower jaws forward to enlarge the airway and prevent obstruction during sleep. Our surgeons will carefully plan the surgery using advanced imaging techniques to ensure precise and effective results.

During mandibular advancement surgery, the jawbones are repositioned forward, creating more space for the tongue and soft tissues at the back of the throat. By advancing the jaws, the airway is kept open during sleep, reducing the likelihood of blockage and improving breathing patterns.

Salivary Gland Surgery

Salivary glands are vital for maintaining oral health, as they produce saliva that aids in digestion, protects teeth from decay, and keeps oral tissues healthy. However, issues such as salivary gland stones (Sialolithiasis), salivary gland infections (Sialadenitis), and salivary gland tumors can disrupt normal function and lead to discomfort and swelling. Salivary gland surgery at Gen Z Dentistry in Glendale, NY, offers multiple benefits, including restoring normal salivary flow, providing pain relief, preventing recurrence of salivary gland issues, and treating salivary gland tumors.

Trust in Gen Z Dentistry for expert oral and maxillofacial surgery services in Glendale, NY. Schedule a consultation with us today.