Steele Dental Blog

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, but the timing, complexity, and recovery vary from person to person. Understanding the basics helps you prepare for the procedure and schedule it effectively. Steele Oral Surgery helps patients remove these teeth before they become a bigger problem. Here are a few frequently asked questions about wisdom teeth removal:

Why Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that don’t come up until the late teens or early twenties. Because of this, many people don’t have space for them in their mouth, which causes pain, discomfort, and shifting of the other teeth. This could also lead to major oral issues in the future if left unremoved. Some signs that your wisdom teeth need to be removed include:

• Pain in the back of the mouth
• Swollen or tender gums
• Earaches or headaches
• Pain around your jaw
• Having trouble eating

Certain individuals have space in their mouths for wisdom teeth. Some dentists still recommend removal because they are difficult to clean, and may lead to excessive plaque and tartar buildup. Removing them is also a preventive measure to avoid unforeseen issues in the future, like decay or crowding. It also makes daily hygiene more manageable.

What Does the Procedure Entail?

During a wisdom teeth removal procedure, an oral surgeon extracts the teeth. The procedure varies depending on whether the teeth have erupted or are still below the gum line. Before the procedure, patients are usually given anesthesia or sedation for comfort. After the teeth are removed, the dentist will place stitches over the incision.

During the procedure itself, patients won’t feel any pain, but some swelling and discomfort are expected afterward. These symptoms can be managed with pain medication and temporary lifestyle changes, such as eating softer foods or using ice to reduce swelling. Foods to include in your diet include applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid brushing hard around the surgical site, as this aggravates the area. 

How Long Is Recovery?

Recovery time varies by person, and the healing process does not follow a single timeline. Soreness and swelling typically peak after surgery before they gradually subside over time. Discussing recovery and aftercare with the professionals at Steele Oral Surgery helps you create a plan tailored to your situation. One of the main complications in recovery is dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot that protects the extraction site becomes loose or dislodged. This condition is associated with drinking through straws, frequent rinsing, and smoking, so following your dentist’s aftercare instructions helps reduce the risk of it occurring. Following aftercare instructions supports steady healing over time.

Inquire About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Issues related to wisdom teeth can involve pain, and oral surgeons at Steele Oral Surgery provide evaluation and treatment. During a consultation, an oral surgeon checks for signs of concern, including eruption sites, jaw discomfort, and tooth alignment. If treatment is needed, they discuss next steps and outline a recovery plan. Reach out today to learn more about the process of removing your wisdom teeth.

The post FAQs About Wisdom Teeth Removal appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

Some individuals experience anxiety when undergoing certain dental procedures. Sedation dentistry helps to relax patients and increase comfort. The type of sedation used at Steele Oral Surgery is tailored to your preferences and the procedure. Here is more information to help you choose the right sedation method for your dental operation:

Understanding the Intensity

Sedation levels vary from mild to moderate to full unconsciousness. Depending on the type of sedation dentistry, the duration and how quickly it takes effect will vary. Recovery also varies depending on the sedation type; some sedatives require you to get a ride home because you will experience lingering effects. A few sedation types with their intensity levels include:

• Light: Nitrous oxide is often used as a mild sedative that wears off quickly after a procedure.
• Moderate: Oral sedation is pill-based and helps patients relax, though they remain conscious during surgery.
• Deep: IV sedation provides a sedative directly into the bloodstream and is used for longer, more involved procedures.
• Full Sedatio: General anesthesia puts patients into a sleep-like state where the body will not respond to pain or normal reflexes.

Choosing an Administration Technique

Each method of oral sedation varies, and it is delivered through the lungs, bloodstream, or digestive system. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose; this makes it a quick option, and the dental team is able to adjust the amount of gas given to patients over time. Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed pill before your appointment at a set time. These options are beneficial for individuals who prefer alternatives to needle-based sedation. IV sedation is given through a vein in the arm or hand. This allows the sedative to move directly into the bloodstream, and the line will remain in place throughout the procedure. General anesthesia can include using an IV, inhaling anesthetics, or combining both. These more in-depth sedatives are appealing for complex dental procedures where patients want reduced or no awareness of the treatment.

Exploring Use Cases

Different sedation types can be aligned with the demands of specific dental procedures. A short appointment involving minimal work will not require the same level of sedation as a multi-hour visit. For treatments like simple tooth extractions, nitrous oxide is often appropriate. Oral conscious sedation types can be used when appointments go beyond simple procedures, such as addressing implant failures. 

IV sedation and general anesthesia are advantageous for treatments with extended operating times. Implant placement or wisdom teeth removal often fall into this category due to the length and precision required during treatment. It is also used when oral surgeons combine several procedures into one appointment, like extractions paired with bone grafting. These options work well when the length and complexity of the procedure require extended stillness. 

Find the Ideal Sedation Dentistry Technique

Steele Oral Surgery prioritizes patient comfort during every kind of procedure. Whether you are having a complete tooth extraction or an all-on-4 restoration placement, selecting the right sedation type for your needs will make sure you remain comfortable and calm throughout your appointment. Contact our team today to learn more about our oral sedation options.

The post Choosing the Right Sedation Method for Your Dental Procedure appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

Visiting the dentist may involve a range of procedures, such as routine cleanings. More advanced treatments, such as oral surgery, provide other sedation options, like general anesthesia. Sedation dentistry supports patients during these procedures by using medications that allow treatment to be completed more efficiently. At Steele Oral Dentistry, our team incorporates sedation into a variety of services, and this helps patients undergo simple visits to complex procedures. Here’s how sedation dentistry can improve your dental experience:

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication during dental procedures. Depending on the method, patients may remain awake and responsive, or enter a deeper state of sedation. The dental team monitors the patient closely, regardless of the option. This creates conditions that allow the dentist to complete treatment efficiently while maintaining patient safety. At Steele Oral Dentistry, sedation includes a wide range of treatments, and this includes oral surgery. 

Types of Sedation 

Some clinics offer several types of sedation, and each provides different procedures to patient’s needs. Nitrous oxide, administered through a nasal mask, takes effect within minutes. It also wears off quickly, allowing patients to return to normal activities soon after their visit. 

Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before the appointment. This method reduces awareness of sights and sounds during treatment while still allowing the patient to remain responsive. The prescribed medication option offers benefits for longer procedures or when multiple treatments are scheduled in one visit. 

IV sedation delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, producing a deeper level of sedation. Professionals adjust the dosage as necessary throughout the procedure, and it makes it useful for more complex services such as extensive restorative work. General anesthesia places the patient in a fully unconscious state for highly involved procedures.

Dental Procedures

Procedures such as tooth extractions, dental implants, or other oral surgeries offer sedation for one appointment, and this reduces the need for multiple visits. This approach benefits patients undergoing longer procedures or a combination of services. An individual needing both restorative work and surgical treatment may be able to complete these services in one session.

Sedation dentistry also plays a role in improving how procedures are performed. By helping patients remain still, dentists are able to work more effectively. This enables procedures that require accuracy, such as implant placement or detailed restorative work, to be done efficiently and safely. Sedation helps reduce physical responses that might interfere with treatment, such as a strong gag reflex or difficulty keeping the mouth open for extended periods. Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation can all be used to address these challenges, allowing dental professionals to maintain consistent progress throughout the procedure. 

Look for a Sedation Dentist

Sedation dentistry helps improve dental procedure performance by allowing dentists to schedule complex treatments into a single visit. By offering multiple sedation options such as nitrous oxide and general anesthesia, our team at Steele Oral Dentistry provides flexibility in how care is delivered. Contact our team today to learn more about our services and treatment plans with professionals.

The post How Sedation Dentistry Can Improve Your Dental Experience appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

Wisdom teeth often begin to emerge in your late teens or early twenties. When there is not enough space in the mouth, the can become impacted, leading to pain and infection. Steele Oral Surgery aims to remove wisdom teeth before complications occur, and this safeguards long-term oral health. Here are some tips to help you prepare for wisdom teeth removal:

Adjust Your Schedule

The procedure for wisdom teeth removal may only last an hour, but recovery often requires a few days. Resting immediately after surgery promotes healing and recovery, so activity should be limited. Some patients experience side effects from anesthesia or prescribed antibiotics that further disrupt normal schedules. Preparing for a modified schedule before the surgery helps reduce unexpected time off work or missed obligations. Medications can affect your ability to drive safely, so it is beneficial to arrange alternate transportation in advance for those who rely on you to get to work, school, or other activities.

Support Recovery

Like many surgeries, wisdom teeth removal results in swelling and discomfort. Having recovery tools at home helps manage pain and support recovery. Before your surgery: 

• Prepare your space: Designating a comfortable resting spot with extra pillows helps keep your head elevated, reducing swelling.
• Stock the kitchen: After surgery, you must avoid chewing hard foods to protect the incision site and reduce pain. Nutritious, soft foods, such as yogurt, applesauce, broth, and smoothies, are good options.
• Plan for pain management: Some doctors prescribe pain medications after wisdom teeth surgery, but others recommend over-the-counter options like ibuprofen. Applying ice packs to the jaws periodically can reduce swelling and its related discomfort.
• Pause medications: Tell your surgeon what medications you are currently taking, because some may interfere with blood clotting or prescribed antibiotics.

Follow Pre-Operation Instructions

Following your surgeon’s pre-operation instructions helps prevent complications during the procedure and sets the foundation for healing. Patients receiving general anesthesia or sedation must fast for about eight hours before the surgery. Fasting includes not consuming food and water, and it helps reduce nausea, a common side effect of sedation. You should also not smoke or drink alcohol before surgery. These substances may delay healing or increase the risk of dry socket. 

Surgeons also require you to arrange transportation to and from your appointment because sedation impairs your ability to drive safely. Wearing loose clothing, such as a t-shirt and sweatpants, supports comfort during the procedure and recovery period; short-sleeved shirts also make it easier for the surgeon to insert an IV if needed. Not following preoperative instructions may result in surgery being cancelled to maintain your safety.

Schedule Wisdom Teeth Removal

A dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal after reviewing X-rays or oral scans; these reveal whether teeth are likely to become impacted as they emerge. If your teeth are already growing in, persistent mouth pain and headaches could indicate a need for surgery. Specialists at Steele Oral Surgery will evaluate your mouth to create a treatment plan that aligns with your needs. Contact us today to learn more about wisdom teeth procedures and recovery.

The post Tips To Help You Prepare for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

Sedation dentistry relies on medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Some sedations options keep you awake, and others put you in a sleep-like state. At Steele Oral Surgery, we use sedation to improve safety during operations and reduce patient discomfort. Here are some of the benefits of sedation dentistry:

Increases Patient Comfort

Sedation techniques provide deep relaxation with a calm sensation and minimal discomfort. This helps make procedures pain-free, which is beneficial for patients with sensitive teeth or undergoing complex dental work. IV sedation, whether conscious or deep, is often chosen for these reasons. The medication is delivered directly into the bloodstream through an IV, so you will begin to feel relaxed within a few minutes. Patients scheduled for wisdom teeth removal or dental implants will likely undergo IV sedation. 

Some patients experience dental phobia, so sedation helps them feel at ease during a procedure. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, quickly induces a relaxed but conscious state. This limits common anxiety responses, such as elevated blood pressure and muscle tension. Oral surgeons can then complete a procedure with minimal interruption, but they are able to ask patients questions as needed. Because nitrous oxide does not produce a numbing effect, it is typically used for minor procedures like fillings and crowns.

Improves Efficiency

With sedation dentistry, patients remain relaxed and still throughout a procedure. This allows oral surgeons to perform treatments more efficiently, shortening appointment times. Oral conscious sedation provides deeper relaxation than nitrous oxide, and it is administered through a pill. This method is suitable for patients who are likely to fidget due to medical or physical conditions such as Parkinson’s or Cerebral Palsy. 

Sedation helps minimize involuntary movements, such as the gag reflex or tongue movement, which may interrupt or slow down your procedure. It also helps the body respond to local anesthesia. By reducing anxiety related to dental phobia, anesthesia can enter the body more efficiently, and it lowers the pain threshold, reducing the amount of anesthesia required.

When multiple procedures are required, sedation allows oral surgeons to complete a patient’s full treatment plan in a single visit. General anesthesia puts you in a sleep-like state, so the brain does not respond to pain or reflexes. This method is often preferred for bone grafting, jaw reconstruction, and full-mouth dental implants.

Addresses Patient Needs

Oral surgeons typically offer multiple sedation options to meet various patient needs. They will recommend methods that align with a patient’s:

• Severity of dental phobia
• Procedure type and length
• Special needs, such as autism
• Preferred sedation method, whether via IV, pill, or gas

With IV sedation, laughing gas, or general anesthesia, dentists can adjust dosage before and during a procedure. This verifies that you remain comfortable and relaxed throughout, and it avoids overdosing. By customizing sedation to each patient, dentists help minimize side effects, such as headache and nausea.

Learn More About Sedation Dentistry

Dental sedation often causes anterograde amnesia; this means you won’t remember what occurred while under sedation. For many, this can further reduce dental anxiety, as comfortable and pain-free treatment is key to the dental visit. Specialists at Steele Oral Surgery will review your medical history and concerns to recommend a sedation option that’s right for you. Contact us today to learn more.

The post Understanding the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

If you’re travelling this summer, heading to a concert, or dropping by your local courthouse for the dreaded jury duty, you may be wondering what will happen when you step through the metal detector with your new dental implants. Here’s why some alloys may set off alarms at some point, and others won’t, as well as what you should do if it happens.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the world’s only permanent tooth replacement option. Comprised of an implant post, abutment, and prosthetic, these restorations are surgically inserted into the jawbone. With time, the bone will heal around the implant, which serves as a tooth root, allowing the patient to use it to enjoy a full diet. Because dental implants are permanent, they never need to be removed for cleaning or soaking, and with proper care and use should never need to be replaced, either!

What are Dental Implants Made Of?

Dental implants are available in several different materials depending on the needs and preferences of the patient. In most cases, titanium is used because it is strong, long lasting, and will successfully fuse with the jawbone via the process of osseointegration. They are also available in zirconia, which is a durable porcelain that contains no metal. Patients may prefer this option if they have allergies or sensitivities that rule out titanium, or if they would like a more natural looking option, as these prosthetics are naturally white.

Will My Dental Implants Set Off Metal Detectors?

Metal detectors work by creating an electromagnetic field which is emitted in pulses. Every pulse creates a return echo, which the detector then recognizes as nothing to worry about. However, if a metal object disrupts that echo system, it creates its own magnetic field, and this interruption sets off an alarm.

If you have zirconia implants, they will not set off a metal detector. However, there is always a slight chance titanium might. The good news is that because most of these machines are looking for much larger volumes of metal, your implants should not be enough to trigger them.

What to Do if Your Dental Implants Set Off Alarms

Although it’s very unlikely your dental implants will set off metal detectors, if they do, rest assured that most security teams have processes in place to handle these situations without incident. You may also want to notify the guard before you step through the machine so they’re aware that you might set off the alarm, but again, the chances of this happening are very low. The important thing to remember is if it does occur, stay calm, explain the situation, and be patient with the agent or officer assisting you and you should be back on your way in no time!

About Dr. Steele

Dr. Darrell Steele earned his dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry. He is proudly the first oral surgeon in the DFW area to have used the Yomi Dental Implant Robot for his dental implant procedures, allowing for a safer, more comfortable, and more predictable procedure. To schedule a consultation for dental implants, visit our website or call us today at 972-315-3355.

The post The (Not So) Alarming Truth About Dental Implants and Metal Detectors appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

You can spot a good deal when you see one, but you’re not short-sighted. You think about long-term investments, quality, and saving as much as you can. What may look initially like a cost-saving option may result in paying more over time. When it comes to tooth replacements, this knowledge will help you select the right choice for your smile. Should you go with “more affordable” dentures or bridges or opt for the pricier implants? Can dental implants actually save you money? Here are some thoughts to consider.

You can spot a good deal when you see one, but you’re not short-sighted. You think about long-term investments, quality, and saving as much as you can. What may look initially like a cost-saving option may result in paying more over time. When it comes to tooth replacements, this knowledge will help you select the right choice for your smile. Should you go with “more affordable” dentures or bridges or opt for the pricier implants? Can dental implants actually save you money? Here are some thoughts to consider.

What Is the Initial Cost of Tooth Replacement?

No two cases will have exactly the same price because the circumstances surrounding tooth replacement are so personal. However, generally speaking, dentures and bridges come at a significantly lower upfront cost than dental implants. Looking only at this initial price tag, you can clearly see dental implants can be more expensive; however, consider what you’re paying for.

Although you can theoretically eat, talk, and smile with dentures at first, they will eventually become loose and not fit properly, leading to slippage, discomfort, and ineffective chewing. Dental implants secure your bite to about 70 percent of its original strength the whole time. They may cost more, but you get more value and quality from dental implants!

How Often Do Prosthetic Teeth Need to Be Replaced?

Dentures and bridges are far less complicated and time intensive than implants. While dental implants can take up to a full year to complete, the other options typically require about a few months at most. However, after this first stage, dental implants have much more longevity.

Dentures must be relined and adjusted every couple of years and replaced entirely usually every 5 years. Dental bridges tend to last a little longer: about 7 to 10 years. Contrast that of the lifespan of robot-assisted dental implants. Even after 20 years, you can have functional, stable, and strong prosthetic teeth!

How Can Dental Implants Save You Money?

Over the years, when you don’t have dental implants, you end up repeatedly spending money to replace and adjust your teeth. These costs add up! On the other hand, you get the whole price for dental implants upfront, which may sound intimidating and overwhelming. However, keep in mind that most dental implant providers allow you to finance expenses for dental implants, meaning you can pay for your teeth replacement over time. As a result, you can afford and may pay less total money in the long run with dental implants!

If you have a longer perspective on the cost of your replacement teeth, you may find that dental implants offer the best deal. When you experience what you’re paying for, the initial cost becomes well worthwhile for a lifetime of strong smiles ahead!

About the Author

As a dual degree oral surgeon, Dr. J. Darrell Steele has both the dental and surgical expertise to handle even the most complicated dental implant cases. Embracing cutting-edge technology, he is the first oral surgeon in the DFW area to take advantage of the YOMI dental implant robot, which makes the procedure much more successful and safe. In addition to working with dental insurance, Steele Oral Surgery offers a free consultation and accepts financing to pay for implants. If you would like to work with Dr. Steele, schedule an appointment at his practice or call 972-315-3355.

The post Can Dental Implants Be More Affordable in the Long Run? appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

More and more dental offices and oral surgeons are offering dermal fillers as part of their cosmetic services. And despite how strange this may seem, it actually makes a lot of sense. These dental experts spend years studying facial anatomy and have steady hands from years of precise work. But before you book your appointment, it’s worth slowing down and asking a few important questions. Here’s what to ask before you commit.

Are You Trained and Certified in Facial Aesthetics?

Dental school covers a lot of topics, but it focuses mainly on teeth and gums. To fill in the gaps, many dental experts pursue additional training and certification in other areas—facial aesthetics being one of them.

Ask your oral surgeon about their specific training, how long they’ve been offering fillers, and how many procedures they’ve performed. Experience matters here just as much as credentials.

What Products Do You Use?

Not all fillers are created equal. FDA-approved options like Juvéderm and Voluma have well-established safety records, and a reputable provider will be transparent about what they use and why. If they can’t name the product or seem vague about it, that’s a red flag worthy of pausing your treatment.

Can I See Before-and-After Photos?

Anyone you should trust with your face should be able to show their work. So, be sure to ask your provider if they have a portfolio of real patient results. Reviewing photos helps you set realistic expectations and get a feel for your oral surgeon’s aesthetic sensibility. And don’t be shy about asking! It’s a completely normal and reasonable request.

What Are the Risks, and How Do You Handle Complications?

Every cosmetic procedure carries some risk, even if it’s small or rare. A trustworthy provider will walk you through potential side effects, what to watch for afterward, and exactly what to do if something doesn’t look or feel right. If they seem evasive about your questions over this part, it’s well within your rights to go elsewhere.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Fillers are minimally invasive, but there’s still some downtime to plan around. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common in the first few days. Knowing what to expect helps you plan your schedule and avoid any surprises.

Finding the right provider for your dermal filler treatment is incredibly important. As you can see, transparency is key. Someone who welcomes your questions, explains their qualifications, and takes time to explain their methods is the right one to trust with your face and your confidence.

About the Author

Dr. Darrell Steele earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry before completing his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency. There, he focused on cosmetic facial surgery and implant procedures—specialties he continues to develop today. Dr. Steele brings decades of surgical experience and a commitment to patient comfort to every consultation, whether you need dental implants or cosmetic services. Call (972) 315-3355 to schedule a consultation for dermal fillers or visit our website to learn more.

The post Smooth Moves: What to Ask Your Oral Surgeon Before Getting Dermal Fillers appeared first on Steele Dental Blog.

More and more dental offices and oral surgeons are offering dermal fillers as part of their cosmetic services. And despite how strange this may seem, it actually makes a lot of sense. These dental experts spend years studying facial anatomy and have steady hands from years of precise work. But before you book your appointment, it’s worth slowing down and asking a few important questions. Here’s what to ask before you commit.