Dental implants can help restore the appearance, stability, and function of a missing tooth while helping preserve the structure of the jaw. They have a reported success rate of approximately 98% and can be cared for much like natural teeth, including regular brushing and flossing.

A dental implant has three main components:

• Titanium post: The post is surgically placed into the jawbone. Titanium is well accepted by the body and allows the bone to grow around the implant through a process called osseointegration, which helps provide stability and durability.

• Abutment: The abutment connects the titanium post to the dental restoration.

• Crown: The crown is the visible portion of the implant that resembles a natural tooth. Porcelain is one option that can provide both strength and a natural appearance.

The procedure generally involves:

• Making an incision in the gums to expose the jawbone.

• Placing the titanium implant into the jawbone.

• Closing the gums with sutures and allowing the implant to heal.

• Allowing time for osseointegration, which can take up to six months or longer depending on the patient's healing

From the initial implant placement to the final restoration, treatment may take approximately six months or longer, depending on healing and whether additional procedures, are necessary.

To learn more about dental implants contact our office at (212) 245-5801 to schedule a consultation.

Types of Extraction

• Simple Extraction: A simple extraction is a procedure performed when a tooth is fully erupted and accessible. The surgeon uses an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth, followed by forceps to lift and remove it from the socket. In most cases, the tooth can be removed in one piece.

• Surgical Extraction: A surgical extraction is more complex and may be necessary when a tooth is broken, compromised, partially erupted, or impacted. The surgeon may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access and remove the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller sections and removed piece by piece. Surgical extractions may require more time and can involve a longer healing period.

Although an extraction may initially appear straightforward, the procedure can sometimes become more complex depending on the condition and position of the tooth.

Following a tooth loss due to injury, a bone graft may be recommended to help preserve the jawbone and support future dental treatment, including dental implants.

After a tooth is lost, the jawbone naturally begins to shrink or atrophy. A bone graft can help preserve the bone in the area of the missing tooth. A tooth socket bone graft involves placing small particles of bone material into the extraction site and securing the area to allow it to heal.

For more information about dental extractions, bone grafting, or our in-office technology contact our office at (212) 245-5801 to schedule a consultation.

Our Face & Jaw Treatments

• Facial Trauma

• TMJ Disorders

• Corrective Jaw Surgery

• Oral Pathology

Facial injuries can affect the skin, soft tissues, bones, and teeth. Lacerations and other soft-tissue injuries require precise treatment to minimize scarring and protect important structures, including nerves and salivary glands.

More severe injuries may also result in broken facial bones or damaged teeth that require surgical repair. Prompt evaluation and treatment following a facial injury can help prevent complications, permanent damage, and unnecessary scarring.

We also evaluate and treat conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull. TMJ disorders can cause:

• Jaw pain or tenderness

• Popping or clicking when opening or closing the mouth

• Pain or discomfort when chewing

• Difficulty opening or closing the jaw

• Jaw locking

• Pain that may extend to the ear or neck

Oral Pathology & Oral Cancer

Regular oral cancer screenings are important because early detection can improve treatment outcomes. Signs that may require evaluation include:

• Persistent white or red lesions in the mouth

• An unexplained lump or swelling in the mouth or jaw

• A sore that bleeds or does not heal

• A persistent sore throat

If an area is concerning, we may perform a biopsy to obtain a sample of tissue for laboratory evaluation. Depending on the results, treatment may include surgical or other appropriate interventions.

To learn more about our face and jaw treatments contact our office at (212) 245-5801 to schedule a consultation.

An Apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery, is a surgical procedure performed when infection or inflammation persists after a standard root canal treatment.

A root canal is performed when the inside of a tooth becomes infected, often due to a deep cavity, cracks, or other pathways that allow bacteria to reach the pulp. Root canal treatment allows patients to preserve their natural tooth, which is generally preferred whenever possible.

When Is an Apicoectomy Needed?

In some cases, infection can persist even after a root canal. This does not necessarily mean that the original treatment was unsuccessful due to an error. The root system contains small branches extending from the main canal, and infected tissue or debris can sometimes remain in these areas despite thorough treatment.

The procedure generally involves:

• Making a small incision in the gum near the affected root.

• Accessing the infected area around the root tip.

• Removing the infected tissue and the tip of the tooth's root using microsurgical techniques.

• Preparing the root-end cavity.

• Sealing the root end with a biocompatible material, typically a calcium-silicate-based material.

• Closing the gum tissue with a few sutures to support healing.

Following the procedure, patients can typically manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication as recommended. Patients should follow post-operative instructions and take care around the surgical site and sutures while healing.

We also treat root resorption, a rare condition in which the body's cells begin to destroy the root of a tooth. Root resorption can be associated with trauma or infection, among other causes.

Early evaluation is important when root resorption is identified because treatment may help preserve the natural tooth. While saving the natural tooth is always a priority, extraction may be necessary in some cases.

To learn more about an apicoectomy, root-end surgery, or other surgical endodontic procedures, contact our office at (212) 245-5801 to schedule a consultation.

Botox® is a highly purified toxin used in very small, carefully controlled doses. When injected, it temporarily blocks nerve signals to targeted muscles, causing them to relax. Botox has been shown to be an effective treatment with a low rate of complications when properly administered.

Botox may be used for:

• Reducing facial lines and wrinkles: Temporarily relaxes targeted muscles to soften crow’s feet, lines between the eyes, and other visible signs of aging.

• Reducing facial and jaw pain: For patients with TMJ dysfunction, Botox may relax strained or inflamed muscles and help relieve pain while the underlying jaw alignment issues are being addressed. It may also help with associated headaches and facial discomfort.

• Reducing muscle spasms: By blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles, Botox can reduce or stop muscle spasms, including spasms around the eyes, neck, and other areas of the body.

• Reducing a gummy smile: Botox can relax the muscle that raises the upper lip, reducing excessive gum exposure when smiling.

Botox is generally safe and effective when appropriately administered. We do not recommend Botox for patients who are pregnant or nursing, or for patients who are currently experiencing an infection anywhere in the body.

Dermal, or facial, fillers work differently from Botox. Botox relaxes targeted muscles, while dermal fillers add volume and fullness. Fillers can be used in the face, lips, and areas of volume loss or depression to help smooth and restore the appearance of the skin, creating a fuller and more youthful appearance.

If you have questions about Botox, dermal fillers, or other treatments, please call our office at (212) 245-5801 to schedule a consultation.

Orthognathic surgery corrects significant jaw misalignment and helps establish a proper bite. It is typically performed before or as part of orthodontic treatment, allowing braces or other orthodontic appliances to fine-tune the position of the teeth after the jaws have been properly aligned.

Surgery may be recommended for patients with:

• Severe jaw misalignment or malocclusion (an improper bite)

• Difficulty chewing or opening and closing the mouth

• Jaw or facial pain, including problems associated with the TMJ

• Jaw abnormalities that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone

• Significant differences between jaw and tooth size

Orthognathic surgery is generally performed after the jaws have finished growing, which typically occurs around age 16 in females and age 18 in males. The procedure is usually performed in a hospital and may take several hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Recovery and Orthodontic Treatment

Recovery takes time, and patients are often advised to rest and limit jaw activity for approximately two weeks following surgery. Depending on the procedure and individual recovery, you may need to take time away from work or school. Once the jaws have adequately healed, your orthodontist will continue treatment to fine-tune your bite and tooth alignment.

Why Correct Your Bite?

Correcting a severe bite can provide both functional and aesthetic benefits. Treatment may help improve:

• Chewing and overall jaw function

• Mouth opening and closing

• Jaw or facial discomfort

• Bite and tooth alignment

• Facial balance and the appearance of your smile

• Confidence when smiling.

Please contact our office at (212) 245-5801 to schedule a consultation.