+ Surgical Removal of Teeth

Teeth require removal for a number of reasons - a cavity that cannot be fixed, failed root canal, infection/abscess, periodontal disease or prior to orthodontic treatment to create space.
A referral to a specialist does not always mean a difficult, unpleasant experience. Our surgeons are experienced and skilled in surgically removing teeth ensuring a smooth, painless procedure.

+ Wisdom teeth/Removal of third molars

One of the most common procedures performed at South West Oral and Facial Surgery is the removal of wisdom teeth (also known as third molars). We take great care in this process to provide a safe and efficient experience.
Third molars usually erupt during the late teenage through to the early twenties. When there is sufficient space, proper alignment and the gum tissue is healthy, the wisdom teeth do not need to be removed. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. Third molars that are partially or fully trapped under the gum and bone are said to be impacted. Inability to keep the area adequately clean due to the poor position of these teeth results in a localised build up of bacteria that can cause infections, periodontal disease and tooth decay, possibly affecting the adjacent molar tooth. Third molars may also require removal as part of an orthodontic treatment plan. Uncommonly third molars develop cysts and other form of pathology. Patients are typically evaluated as teenagers and early removal is recommended to avoid future problems and decrease minimise surgical risk

+ Canine Exposure

In addition to wisdom teeth, other important teeth can have difficulty erupting. Canines are the second most commonly impacted teeth. However, rather than extracting canines, which are essential for chewing and incising food, we can surgically uncover the tooth. By surgically exposing the teeth and carefully bonding brackets with chains, an orthodontist can then bring the teeth out & into the correct position. This procedure is best performed before the teeth are fully developed.

+ Dental Implants

We provide only the most up-to-date form of tooth replacements: Dental implants. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. The jawbone then bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Occasionally additional bone grafting of the jaws may be required when there is insufficient bone to anchor the implant. Our surgeons will work closely with your dentist or prosthodontist throughout the initial consultation and planning stage to assess your suitability for dental implants.

+ Grafting Procedures

Before dental implants can be placed, the jaw needs to have sufficient bone, good soft tissue, and enough space. When these criteria are unable to be met, our surgeons have many other techniques—including bone grafting and soft tissue grafting—to improve opportunities for success. With bone grafting, the goal is to provide adequate bone height and width for implant placement. With soft tissue grafting, the goal is to augment thin soft tissue, or to introduce tougher soft tissue where it’s lacking.

+ Oral Pathology

Oral Pathology refers to the diseases of the mouth, jaws and related structures such as the salivary glands, and the skin of & around the mouth. We offer specialised, comprehensive care for patients with benign (non-cancerous) cysts and tumors of the head and neck. Following a consultation, a biopsy of the lump or a lesion around or within around and within the mouth & lips maybe required. In almost all cases, this can be easily performed under a local anaesthetic. The tissue is then sent off to a pathology laboratory for analysis with the results available at your review appointment.