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Oral surgery. It’s a term that might sound intimidating, but it’s simply a way to address problems that go beyond regular dental care. From fixing damaged teeth to restoring your smile with implants, oral surgery changes lives every day. At Montana Center for Implants and Dentures, Dr. Josh Muir, Montana’s only implantologist, offers expert care to help you get the best results.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know. We’ll talk about what it is, why you might need it, what it can fix, and the costs involved. Let’s dive in.
What Is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery is a specialized area of dentistry focusing on surgical treatments for the mouth, teeth, gums, and jaw. It covers a wide range of procedures, from something as simple as pulling a tooth to complex surgeries that repair your jaw or replace missing teeth.
So, what is it, exactly? It’s care that goes deeper than a regular cleaning or filling.
Here are some common procedures:
- Tooth Extractions: Removing teeth that are damaged, decayed, or impacted (like wisdom teeth).
- Dental Implants: Replacing missing teeth with long-lasting, natural-looking solutions.
- Bone Grafting: Strengthening the jawbone for implants or other restorations.
- Jaw Surgery: Fixing alignment issues for better function and appearance.
- Oral Pathology: Removing abnormal growths or treating infections.
Each procedure serves a purpose. Some surgeries fix immediate problems, while others, like dental implants, focus on giving you long-term benefits.
Why Might Someone Need Oral Surgery?
No two patients are the same, and neither are their oral health needs. You might need surgery for a variety of reasons.
1. Missing Teeth
Losing teeth is more common than you think. It can affect how you chew, speak, and smile. Dental implants are one of the most popular procedures. They give you a durable, natural replacement that can last a lifetime.
At Montana Center for Implants and Dentures, Dr. Muir specializes in implants, making them accessible to patients in Billings, MT, and beyond.
2. Jaw Pain or Misalignment
Pain when chewing? Difficulty closing your mouth properly? These are signs of jaw misalignment. Corrective jaw surgery can help. It’s about more than just comfort—it’s about functionality.
3. Impacted or Problematic Teeth
Wisdom teeth often don’t grow in the way they’re supposed to. They can get stuck, cause pain, or crowd other teeth. Dentists will remove them before they cause bigger problems.
4. Bone Loss
Did you know missing teeth can cause your jawbone to shrink? Bone grafting helps restore lost bone, especially if you’re considering implants.
5. Facial Trauma or Infections
Accidents happen. When they do, oral surgery might be necessary to repair injuries, remove infections, or restore your smile.
Oral Surgery in Billings, MT
If you’re in Billings, MT, you have access to some of the best care in the region. At Montana Center for Implants and Dentures, Dr. Josh Muir offers a range of options. Whether you need wisdom teeth removal or dental implants, you’ll be in expert hands.
Patients come from all over Montana to see Dr. Muir, and for good reason. He’s not just experienced—he’s the only Board Certified Implantologist in the state.
What Oral Surgery Fixes
Oral surgery does more than treat pain or fix problems. It can truly transform your quality of life.
Here’s what surgery can help with:
- Replacing missing teeth with implants.
- Fixing jaw alignment for better chewing and speaking.
- Resolving chronic pain, like TMJ issues.
- Removing infections or abnormal growths.
- Improving the appearance of your smile and face.
It’s not just about the health benefits. For many, it’s about confidence. Being able to smile without hesitation? That’s priceless.
Is Oral Surgery Expensive?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cost.
Is it expensive? The answer depends.
Some procedures, like simple extractions, are relatively affordable. Others, like All-On-4 Implants or jaw surgery, can cost thousands of dollars. Here’s the good news: many treatments are an investment in your long-term health.
Factors that influence the cost include:
- The type of procedure.
- Materials used, such as titanium for implants.
- Sedation options (general anesthesia costs more).
- The complexity of the surgery.
At Montana Center for Implants and Dentures, Dr. Muir and his team work hard to make care accessible. They’ll walk you through your options, so you understand both the costs and the benefits.
Does Insurance Cover Oral Surgery?
Insurance coverage is often a big question for patients. The good news? Many dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost, especially if it’s medically necessary.
Here’s what might be covered:
- Tooth extractions.
- Biopsies or treatments for infections.
- Bone grafts or implants (in some cases).
However, cosmetic procedures, like implants, may not be fully covered. That’s why it’s important to work with a provider who understands the ins and outs of insurance.
In addition to working with traditional insurance plans, Montana Center for Implants and Dentures partners with Rubicare Health Savings Plan, which provides healthcare at a discounted rate for its members. This partnership makes it easier for patients to access affordable oral surgery and other treatments. Whether you have insurance or are exploring alternative options, the team is here to help you find the best financial solution.
What to Expect Before and After
This process can feel overwhelming, but preparation and recovery are key to a smooth experience.
Before Surgery:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions closely.
- Avoid eating or drinking if sedation will be used.
- Plan for someone to drive you home.
After Surgery:
- Rest. This is the time to let your body heal.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid using straws.
- Take medications as prescribed to manage pain or prevent infection.
Recovery times vary. While a simple extraction might heal in a few days, more complex procedures, like implants, may take weeks or months for full integration.
The Bottom Line
Oral surgery is about more than fixing a problem. It’s about giving you the confidence, comfort, and health you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with missing teeth, jaw pain, or wisdom teeth, oral surgery can offer life-changing results.
At Montana Center for Implants and Dentures, Dr. Josh Muir and his team are here to guide you through every step. From explaining the benefits to answering, “Is oral surgery expensive?”, they’re committed to giving you the care you need.
Your oral health matters. Take the next step today. Reach out to the experts in oral surgery in Billings, MT and discover how they can help you smile with confidence again.
