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An impacted tooth is when you have a tooth that is blocked from breaking through the gum. In some cases, teeth are partially impacted, but can still cause issues. Impacted teeth are usually found during your regular exam in the dentist office on an x-ray. Impacted teeth are usually because your mouth does not have the proper space for the tooth, or are caused from genetics.

At Lompoc Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we provide the highest level of care, and our exams can identify impacted teeth, and provide the proper treatment to avoid complications in the future.

Symptoms of an Impacted Tooth

• Bad breath
• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Pain or difficulty when you open your mouth
• Pain during chewing or biting

What Teeth Are Typically Impacted?

Wisdom teeth are the most common teeth that are typically impacted. They are the last teeth to erupt, and typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. In some cases, the jaw and mouth are just too small to allow the wisdom teeth to come in. Wisdom teeth are usually removed if they are causing a problem, or if they are impacted because wisdom teeth are not needed.

In addition to wisdom teeth, the canines are another tooth that is typically impacted. These are the upper eye teeth in the mouth. Canines play an important role in our mouths, and treatment is typically recommended to help these teeth erupt properly.

How Are Impacted Teeth Treated?

Waiting

Impacted teeth may not cause any symptoms or pain, and in some cases waiting is the appropriate approach. Regular visits to the office are required to keep a close eye on the impacted tooth to ensure no problems develop.

Oral Surgery

If the patient is experiencing any symptoms or pain, extraction surgery may be recommended. This is when the impacted tooth is extracted surgically. Tooth extraction surgery is an outpatient procedure, and usually takes between 40-60 minutes. Local anesthesia is used to keep you pain free and comfortable. The recovery can take between 7-10 days, and patients can return to their normal routine a few days after surgery.

When the canine teeth are impacted instead of removing the teeth, doctors can install chains, or other orthodontic appliances to help the teeth erupt into place. If there are teeth blocking the canines, tooth extraction may also be necessary. In rare cases, if the tooth can not erupt, the impacted tooth is removed, and a dental bridge or implant can be used to replace the tooth.

If impacted teeth are not treated properly problems may develop including decay, infection, crowding, or absorption of bone. If you think you have symptoms of an impacted tooth, or are due for your regular exam, we encourage you to contact our office.

Ready To Find Out More About Impacted Teeth?

If you think you may have an issue, or are due for your regular exam, contact our oral surgeon in Lompoc, CA. Treating impacted teeth is important to help prevent infection or damage to surrounding teeth. Attending your regular visits to our office can help identify impacted teeth early, and get in front of any issues before they develop. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery, and always treat patients with the highest level of care. We want you to know you are in good hands when you visit our office, and our staff will work to ensure your experience is positive.

To schedule your appointment, contact Lompoc Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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When you have oral surgery, the recovery is important to ensure you heal properly. During the healing process, it is important to eat the right foods. If you are well prepared at home your recovery will go smooth. We recommend patients plan ahead and purchase soft food items prior to their surgery, so they have choices ready to go when they return home from their procedure.

At Lompoc Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our team will discuss what to eat and what to expect during the recovery period. This allows our patients to ask questions, and ensures they are prepared for the healing process. We provide a detailed list of recovery tips and food items patients should have on hand at home during their recovery.

What Are Examples of Oral Surgery Procedures that Require Special Foods Afterwards?

• Dental Implants
• Sinus Lift
• Bone Grafting
• Ridge Augmentation
• Wisdom Teeth
• Impacted Canines
• Jaw Surgery
• Teeth-in-a-Day

What Are Examples of Oral Surgery Procedures that Require Special Foods Afterwards?

• Soups
• Juices
• Scrambled Eggs
• Jell-O
• Pudding
• Popsicles
• Applesauce
• Ice cream
• Smoothies
• Oatmeal
• Mashed Potatoes
• Rice
• Pasta
• Fish
• Soft Fruit

What Foods Should I Avoid After Surgery?

• Hard or sticky foods
• Chewy foods
• Spicy Foods
• Alcoholic beverages

On the day of your surgery, we recommend only drinking clear fluids. Patients can gradually move towards soft foods as they heal. It is important to make sure you eat during recovery to promote proper healing. Drinking out of a straw should be avoided, as this can disrupt the surgery area. To optimize healing, patients can increase their protein intake to help the healing process. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous physical activity. Patients can resume brushing and flossing, but should be careful around the surgery area. Keeping up with oral hygiene and keeping the area clean is important.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about oral surgery and the recovery process, we encourage you to contact our oral surgeon in Lompoc, CA. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery, and always provide the highest level of care to all of our patients. We provide a calm and welcoming environment, and use state of the art technology to make your experience exceptional. When you choose an oral surgeon, you want to know you are in good hands, and at Lompoc Oral &  Maxillofacial Surgery, we provide quality dental care that you can trust.

To schedule your appointment contact us and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Right Dentist for Dental Implants

When you decide to invest in dental implants to restore your smile, you want to make sure you find the perfect dentist. Quality dentistry you can count on is important to ensure your implant procedure is successful.

 

There are many things to look out for when choosing a dentist in your area. Dentists should have proper training and years of experience in implant dentistry. It is important that the dentist you choose is heavily involved in continuing education. This ensures they are staying on top of the latest trends and techniques available in the dental industry. If you need a source or list of dentists in your area, you can visit the American Academy of Implant Dentistry website to locate an implant expert.

What Are Tips To Consider When Choosing My Dentist?

  • Complete research on your own and find out what services your dentist offers, and how many years they have been treating patients.
  • Check on their continuing education experience to ensure your dentist is providing the highest level of care and technology to all patients.
  • Research or ask questions about the dentist’s experience and background on implant dentistry, and how many patients they have treated successfully.
  • Ask friends or neighbors that have had implant surgery, and have them provide feedback on the procedure and recovery process.
  • Look for a full-service practice that can handle the entire process from start to finish. You don’t want to have to visit multiple offices when you are going through an extensive process like dental implant surgery.
  • Talk to your dentist about sedation options and what may work best for you. It is important to feel comfortable about the dental implant process, and your dentist should want to help choose the best option for sedation that works for you.

At Lompoc OMS, we are a full-service practice, and our passion is restoring smiles for our patients. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have broken or cracked teeth, our team can help. We have years of experience in implant dentistry, and we love to help patients restore their confidence with a brand-new smile.

 

Don’t live with a smile that causes you to be embarrassed around others. Implants offer a permanent solution, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Dental implants are durable, and can function just like our natural teeth.

Looking for a Dental Implant Specialist in Your Area?

If you are interested in finding out more about how dental implants can benefit you, contact Lompoc OMS today. Our staff would love to welcome you to our practice, and help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Dental implants are a big decision and can be life changing. Let our doctors get you started with our dental implant consultation process today.

 

To schedule your appointment, contact Lompoc OMS, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Popcorn and Dental Implants

Dental implants are an investment, and after you go through the process and finally have that perfect smile, it is important to care for them properly. Watching what you eat or chew on helps to ensure your implants stay in great condition. There are certain foods patients should avoid with their dental implants to help keep them looking and feeling great.

 

At Lompoc OMS, we specialize in implant dentistry, and our team is trained to work with each patient throughout the entire process. We prepare our patients on what to expect, and discuss how to care for your implants at home. Practicing good oral hygiene is always key to ensure you keep your implants clean and free of harmful plaque.

Can I Eat Popcorn?

Popcorn is one of the foods that should be avoided if you have dental implants. Any food that is a seed can be dangerous, and can cause you to have potential issues. Popcorn specifically can get stuck between the teeth and gums, and damage your implants. If you chew on an un-popped kernel, this can put stress on your implant, and can cause the implant to become weak or unstable. Implants are durable, but in some cases, they can break or crack if they are not treated with care.

 

We always recommend patients treat their implants just like their natural teeth. Keeping your dental implants clean and healthy can avoid unnecessary or painful trips to the dentist. After investing in your smile, you want to avoid the need for repair. There are plenty of snacks and foods that are softer, and are safe to eat with dental implants.

Looking to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they can benefit you, contact Lompoc OMS today to schedule your appointment. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and we provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for our patients.

 

If you are unhappy with your smile, and are looking to restore the functionality of your teeth and mouth, Lompoc OMS can help. Let us get you started with the process towards a smile you can be confident to show others.

 

To schedule your appointment, contact Lompoc OMS, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Gum Disease

Gum disease or periodontal disease is when you have inflammation of the gums. Gum disease breaks down the tissue around our teeth and gums, and if not treated can lead to tooth loss. In recent studies doctors have looked at the correlation between gum disease and heart disease. Heart disease is when the blood vessels around the heart are narrow or blocked.

What Is the Correlation Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease?

According to a research study in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, people who treated their gum disease had less cardiovascular issues compared to other people that did not seek oral treatment. This indicates that gum disease does affect our heart health. Other studies have found that there is a direct link between our oral health and our heart health. Gum disease can increase a person’s risk of heart disease by 20 percent. The inflammation in the gums can cause narrowing of the arteries, and can result in heart conditions.


Gum disease is also linked to other conditions if not treated. These conditions include respiratory disease such as pneumonia, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis. If you have diabetes, research suggests that you may have a greater chance of developing gum disease in the future. This is due to the inflammation and the risk of infection.

How Can We Help?

At Lompoc OMS, we focus on prevention and help patients take control of their oral health. If you notice inflammation of the gums, and think you may have gum disease, we encourage you to call our office. Gum disease can progress and lead to unstable teeth, or even tooth loss if not treated.

 

Taking care of your oral health is important because the health of your mouth is directly linked to your overall health.  Our team has years of experience in treating gum disease, and we give patients advice on how to take care of their teeth and gums at home. Practicing good oral hygiene is important as well as attending your regular visits to our office. Dental exams can ensure your gums look healthy, and allow our team to get in front of any issues before gum disease develops.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, or are concerned you may have gum disease, contact Lompoc OMS, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you. We provide honest and quality dental care you can trust, and we look forward to you joining our dental family.

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Periodontal Pockets

If you notice your gums are inflamed or receding, you may be wondering what procedures are available to help shrink periodontal pockets. When gums are loose and no longer fit snug around your teeth, this can cause bacteria and plaque to collect underneath the gums. This can cause severe damage to your gums and teeth, and if not treated can result in unstable teeth, or even tooth loss.

 

At this point brushing and flossing can not reach the bacteria that is deep down in the infected pockets of your gums, and you need to contact a periodontist. There are a few different procedures available to help shrink or fix periodontal pockets and prevent bacteria or plaque from collecting in the future.

What Treatments Are Available to Treat Periodontal Pockets?

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing helps to deep clean in and around the periodontal pockets. This procedure removes the plaque and bacteria on the tooth and underneath the gum line. Scaling and root planing helps to shrink periodontal pockets and can heal gum tissue. This treatment prevents further infection, and keeps your teeth and gums looking and feeling great. After scaling and root planing most patients notice their gums recede less, and they are restored.

Gingival Flap Surgery

Gingival flap surgery is when the gum tissue is folded back and the diseased tissue is removed. The gum is then secured back into place, and the area is smoothed out to prevent bacteria from entering in the future.

Gingivectomy

This procedure removes overgrown tissue around your teeth by cutting it away. This can help patients clean their teeth easier, and stops bacteria from collecting in the gums.

Gingivoplasty

A gingivoplasty procedure helps to reshape gum tissue around the teeth. During this procedure gum grafts can be used, and stitched into place where the gums have receded.

 

The treatment needed will depend on the severity of the patient’s periodontal pockets. During our consultation process we perform a detailed evaluation and develop a customized treatment plan. Our doctors will discuss the recommended treatment, and talk to the patient about all of their options to treat their periodontal pockets. Treating gum disease is very important, and can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

 

At Lompoc OMS, we have years of experience in periodontics, and love to help patients restore their gums and smile. Let our team help you take that first step towards healthier gums with one of our periodontal gum treatments.

Interested in Finding Out More About Periodontal Pocket Treatment Options?

If you are interested in finding out how periodontal pocket treatments can benefit you, please contact Lompoc OMS, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Tooth Infection

Infections can be serious, and it is always important for patients to know when to call their dentist. Infections should always be treated right away to avoid complications, or other issues from developing. If you have a toothache and throbbing pain that does not go away, the infection could spread to other places in the body. At Lompoc OMS, we are equipped to handle any dental emergency, and offer flexible hours to accommodate our patients.

What Are Symptoms of a Tooth Infection?

  • Throbbing pain that does not subside
  • Pain in your jaw, neck, or ear
  • Sensitivity when you place pressure on the area
  • Pain that gets worse when you are lying down
  • Swelling around the jaw or mouth
  • Tender lymph nodes
  • Bad breath or odd taste in the mouth
  • Fever

Knowing these signs can help treat an infection before it spreads and becomes more serious. Never hesitate to call your dentist when you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. At Lompoc OMS, we put our patients’ health first, and provide exceptional care you can trust. Our team is trained to handle any emergency, and we will work to relieve your pain and keep you comfortable.

What Happens If the Infection Spreads?

There is little chance that a tooth infection will spread to other parts of the body. Patients that have any of the below symptoms should call our office right away. Infections that spread can be life threatening and should be taken seriously.

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Change in vision
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Confusion
  • Swelling around the face or mouth

Pain that does not subside

What Treatment Is Available?

The treatment provided will depend on the severity of the infection. If an abscess is present, we will identify the location of the abscess, and determine how far the infection has spread. Root canal treatment may be necessary to treat an abscess if it is located inside the tooth. If root canal therapy is not enough, our doctor can perform an apicoectomy to open up the gum area near the root, and remove the infected tissue.

 

Other treatments may involve prescribing antibiotics to treat the infection and stop it from spreading. Our team will monitor your progress on the antibiotics to ensure they are working. If necessary, the type of antibiotics used may need to be changed, and a hospital stay may be required.

 

Sepsis can occur when an infection spreads, and the immune system overreacts to an infection in your blood. If this is left untreated, sepsis can lead to septic shock which can cause organ failure, or even death. Patients that have sepsis will need to be hospitalized and given special intravenous treatment.

 

Treating an infection is extremely important to avoid complications like sepsis. We encourage you to contact our office if you experience any sign of an infection. Let our team help relieve your pain, and get you on the road to recovery.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you think you may have an infection, we encourage you to contact our office right away. To schedule your appointment, please contact Lompoc OMS, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem, and many patients encounter pain or discomfort when they eat certain foods that are hot or cold. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, around 40 million adults suffer from sensitivity. Usually, the pain is temporary and can be treated to improve, but not cure the condition.

At Lompoc OMS, we provide many general dentistry services including treatment for patients that suffer from sensitivity. We strive to provide quality dental care in a caring and friendly environment, where patients can relax during their treatment. We welcome new patients to our practice, and look forward to you joining our dental family.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can happen suddenly, and to anyone. Typically, symptoms of sensitivity include a sudden sharp pain when your teeth are exposed to cold, hot, or acidic foods. Tooth sensitivity can also come after you brush or floss your teeth. Teeth whitening can cause sensitivity after treatment, so patients should consider this when they are deciding to start a whitening regimen.

 

Our teeth are protected by enamel, and underneath the enamel is a layer of dentin. Dentin is soft, and if the enamel on your teeth is worn down, or your gums have receded the dentin can become exposed. Dentin can be exposed from cavities or cracks in your teeth. The dentin is connected to the nerve area, and this is what can cause pain or sensitive teeth.

Other Actions That Can Cause Sensitivity

  • Brushing too vigorously
  • Gum recession from periodontal disease
  • Gingivitis
  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Cracked or injured teeth
  • Plaque
  • Acidic foods or drinks
  • Dental procedures such as sensitivity after a filling
  • Teeth Whitening treatments

What Treatments Are Available for Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can never completely go away, but there are treatments available that can help alleviate the sensitivity you experience. If you are experiencing any sensitivity, we recommend you make an appointment for an exam in our office. We can treat sensitivity easier if we know that is what is causing you pain. Never leave pain untreated as this could lead to more serious issues in the future.

Sensitivity Treatments

  • Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
  • Changing to a soft bristled tooth brush.
  • Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
  • Avoid acidic foods or drinks.
  • Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth.
  • Inlays or bonding can help fix a tooth and decrease sensitivity.
  • Gum grafts can help protect the root area of the tooth.
  • Fluoride gel or varnish treatment can help protect your teeth from wear and tear.
  • Root Canal therapy if needed can help with severe tooth sensitivity, but this is typically the last resort.

Taking care of your teeth and knowing when to call your dentist is important. Patients should never have prolonged pain or sensitivity to hot or cold. It is always important to take care of your oral health, and practice good habits at home. At Lompoc OMS, your oral health is our priority, and we strive to provide our patients with quality and affordable dental services. Let our team help you take charge of your dental health.

Ready To Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about treatments for tooth sensitivity, contact Lompoc OMS, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Emergency Dentist

If you have found yourself with a dental emergency you may wonder where to start. Doing research ahead of time to find an emergency dentist is important. This not only helps you to be prepared in an emergency, it also helps make the situation less stressful. Typically, your emergency dentist should be the one to call when you have a dental emergency.

 

Your dentist can handle an emergency and perform an oral exam to determine what is needed. If the situation requires an oral surgeon, your dentist will refer you to a great surgeon they recommend. Common dental emergencies include injury to a tooth or the mouth, prolonged pain or swelling, or an infection.

What is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Oral Surgeon?

Many patients are unsure what the difference is between their dentist and an oral surgeon. Oral surgeons receive different training and education compared to your dentist. An oral surgeon can offer different services that your dentist may not be able to perform.

 

General dentists can perform minor surgeries, but their training is focused on services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and root canals. Visiting your dentist first is a great start if you have any emergency. Your dentist can evaluate the emergency and determine if they can treat your issue, or refer you to an oral surgeon.

 

An oral surgeon is required if your emergency involves a tooth extraction, concern with your gum tissue, or an issue with your jaw bone. Oral surgeons are trained in various surgeries such as impacted teeth, jaw concerns, bone loss, and wisdom teeth.

 

There are dentists available who can do both, and finding that perfect dentist can make your life easier. In many cases there is an oral surgeon in the same office and your dentist can refer you to them for a same day appointment. An oral surgeon can help patients that have suffered any traumatic injury.

Looking To Find Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about what emergency services we provide, we encourage you to contact our office. Our staff is trained to handle dental emergencies, and are available to answer any questions you may have. Calling our office is the first step when you have a dental emergency. We can take a look, and evaluate next steps to help get you on the road to recovery.

 

To get in touch with us or for more information contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you!

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Root Canal

If you are dealing with persistent tooth pain you may be in need of a root canal. Root canals are typically needed when your tooth is severely damaged, or there is an infection in the pulp area of the tooth. Common issues can damage the pulp of a tooth including trauma, infections, or decay.


In some cases pain is not evident when the issue first happens. Over time, the pain may get worse and you will need to make an appointment at the dentist.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a common dental emergency to save an infected or damaged tooth. Root canal therapy includes removing the damaged tissue or pulp and sealing the area. This prevents future bacteria from entering. A filling or crown is then used to keep your tooth sturdy and secure.

How Do I Know If I Need Root Canal Treatment?

Persistent Pain in or Around the tooth

This can be caused by an infection in the pulp area of the tooth. Patients should not wait to call the dentist, and should seek immediate attention.

Injury or Damage to a Tooth

If your tooth has been damaged from injury or trauma you may need a root canal to save the tooth. A crown can be used to restore your tooth, and make it look natural.

Tooth Discoloration

If you notice your tooth has white spots, or has changed color this may indicate the root of your tooth is damaged. Symptoms may include pain or sensitivity to hot or cold. Crowns can be used to restore your tooth, and can be customized to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.

 

Ignoring pain is something patients should never do. Our team is here to help, and making that call is the first step to help you become pain free. If your tooth is injured or your pain is persistent, this indicates something is wrong and you may need an emergency root canal. Root canals can save your tooth and should always be addressed right away.

Think You May Have an Emergency?

If you think you may have an emergency or are experiencing symptoms please contact our office. Our staff will ensure you are seen right away. We offer flexible and emergency hours to ensure we can accommodate any situation.

 

To schedule your appointment please contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

Contact Lompoc Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Contact Us Today!

Address

619 East Ocean Avenue Lompoc, CA 93436

Phone

(805) 735-3665

E-mail

Info@lompocoms.com

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