The post Understanding Bone Grafting and Why It’s Needed for Dental Implants appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>Bone grafting is a minor surgical procedure where your oral surgeon adds or regenerates bone in your jaw. The goal is to strengthen the area where a dental implant will be placed.
Over time, missing teeth can cause the jawbone to shrink or weaken because it no longer receives stimulation from chewing. Bone grafting reverses that loss by rebuilding bone density and volume.
Not everyone needs a bone graft before getting implants. However, your surgeon may recommend it if:
You’ve been missing a tooth for a long time
You’ve had periodontal (gum) disease that affected the jawbone
You’ve suffered an injury or trauma to your jaw
Your bone is naturally thin or soft
By reinforcing the bone, your oral surgeon ensures that the dental implant can anchor securely — which is essential for long-term success.
First, your surgeon will evaluate your jawbone using advanced 3D imaging. This allows them to determine exactly where and how much bone is needed.
Then, the grafting material — which may come from your own body, a donor source, or synthetic materials — is placed into the jaw.
Over the next few months, your body naturally integrates the graft, forming new, healthy bone tissue in the area.
Bone grafting may add a step to your implant journey, but it delivers lasting benefits:
Improved implant success rate: Stable bone supports the implant for decades.
Restored facial structure: Prevents the “sunken” look that often happens with tooth loss.
Stronger oral health foundation: Reinforces jaw strength for future dental work.
Natural-looking results: Ensures your implants align properly with surrounding teeth.
Recovery is typically smooth. You may experience mild swelling or discomfort for a few days, but most patients return to normal activities within a week. Your surgeon will give you detailed aftercare instructions to promote proper healing.
Once the grafted bone has fully integrated — usually within three to six months — your dental implant can be placed.
At Eastern Virginia Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our experienced team uses the latest technology to make bone grafting and dental implant procedures safe, precise, and comfortable. Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or are planning for implants, we’ll guide you through every step toward a stronger, healthier smile.
👉 Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out if bone grafting is right for you.
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]]>The post Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic): Why It’s More Than Aesthetics appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>Orthognathic surgery corrects irregularities of the jaw bones to improve how your teeth, jaws, and face function. The procedure is carefully planned with 3D imaging and sometimes combined with orthodontics (braces) to ensure proper alignment and bite.
1. Improve Your Bite and Chewing
Misaligned jaws can make it difficult to bite, chew, or grind food properly. Surgery repositions the jaws to improve occlusion, reducing uneven wear on teeth and preventing jaw strain.
2. Enhance Speech Clarity
Jaw irregularities can affect pronunciation and speech patterns. Correcting the jaw alignment can help improve speech clarity, making everyday communication easier.
3. Reduce Pain and Jaw Strain
Chronic jaw pain, headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort often result from misaligned jaws. Orthognathic surgery alleviates pressure on muscles and joints, reducing pain and improving jaw function.
4. Improve Breathing and Sleep
Some jaw misalignments contribute to obstructive sleep apnea or difficulty breathing through the nose. Corrective jaw surgery can expand the airway, improving breathing, oxygen intake, and quality of sleep.
5. Support Long-Term Oral Health
A properly aligned jaw reduces the risk of premature tooth wear, gum problems, and bone deterioration. This not only improves oral function but also contributes to long-term dental health.
Orthognathic surgery involves a team approach. Your surgeon works closely with your dentist or orthodontist to plan the surgery, and recovery includes a period of rest, dietary adjustments, and follow-up appointments. Modern techniques ensure precision, safety, and a smooth healing process.
Our board-certified surgeons specialize in functional jaw correction as well as aesthetic improvements. We focus on personalized care, ensuring that each procedure addresses your specific needs, from bite correction to improved sleep and pain relief.
Ready to improve both the function and appearance of your jaw? Contact Eastern Virginia OMS today to schedule a consultation and learn how orthognathic surgery can enhance your health and quality of life.
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]]>The post What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>Wisdom teeth often become impacted or grow in at the wrong angle, leading to pain, crowding, or even infections. That’s why many people have them removed during their late teens or early twenties, before complications arise.
Your first visit starts with a full evaluation, including a review of your dental history and imaging (like a panoramic X-ray). We’ll explain if extraction is necessary and go over all your sedation options. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and feel fully prepared.
Wisdom teeth removal is typically an outpatient surgery, performed right in our office. You’ll be under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your needs and preferences.
Our surgeons use the latest tools and techniques to minimize discomfort and ensure a safe, efficient extraction—whether your teeth are erupted or impacted.
You’ll go home the same day with detailed instructions for a smooth recovery. Most patients can expect:
Swelling and mild discomfort for a few days
Pain management with prescribed or over-the-counter medication
Soft foods and hydration to support healing
A follow-up visit if needed
Our team is always available if you have questions after surgery or experience anything unusual during recovery.
With board-certified oral surgeons, advanced technology, and a compassionate team, you can feel confident knowing your care is in expert hands. We serve patients across Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and beyond.
Ready to Schedule?
If you or your child may need wisdom teeth removed, contact Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today to book a consultation. We’re here to help every step of the way.
The post What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>The post How to Find the Best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Near You appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>First, look for surgeons with board certification and specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This ensures they have advanced skills beyond general dentistry.
Additionally, ask how many procedures they perform each year. Experience matters—especially for complex surgeries.
Patient feedback provides valuable insight into the surgeon’s skill and bedside manner. Look for consistent positive reviews mentioning comfort, professionalism, and successful outcomes.
At Eastern Virginia OMS, we pride ourselves on patient satisfaction and invite you to read our reviews online.
Modern technology improves surgical precision and recovery time. Find a practice that uses advanced digital imaging, 3D planning, and sedation options to enhance safety and comfort.
We invest in state-of-the-art equipment to deliver the highest quality care in a welcoming environment.
Surgery can be stressful. A great surgeon takes time to explain your procedure, answer questions, and tailor care to your needs.
Our team provides thorough consultations and clear communication to ensure you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Convenience matters. Choose a surgeon with a nearby office and flexible scheduling. Emergency availability is also important if complications arise.
We offer multiple locations and strive to accommodate your busy lifestyle.
Trust Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for Expert Care
Finding the best oral and maxillofacial surgeon starts with research and questions. If you’re in the Virginia Beach area, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team.
👉 Contact us today and take the first step toward expert, compassionate care.
The post How to Find the Best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Near You appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>The post Preparing for Oral Surgery Procedure: What to Do Before and After appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>Your surgical team will provide specific instructions ahead of time. These may include:
No eating or drinking for at least 6–8 hours before your appointment (if sedation or general anesthesia is planned).
Stop taking certain medications (only if advised).
Arrange a ride home, especially if you’ll be under sedation.
Following these instructions exactly helps ensure your safety during surgery.
Take the day off work or school, and avoid planning anything strenuous the day before or after surgery. Having a calm, restful environment will set you up for a smooth recovery.
Before surgery, gather a few key items:
Ice packs
Soft foods (like yogurt, smoothies, soup)
Gauze pads
Prescribed medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed)
This way, you won’t need to run errands while healing.
Swelling is normal after oral surgery. To reduce it:
Apply ice packs to your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, for the first 24–48 hours.
Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping.
Your oral surgeon will also provide medications to manage pain or inflammation. Take them as directed for best results.
Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods right after surgery. Instead, eat soft, cool items like:
Applesauce
Pudding
Mashed potatoes
Scrambled eggs
Gradually return to normal foods as you feel comfortable.
To protect your healing site:
Don’t use a straw (this can cause dry socket).
Avoid smoking or vaping.
Don’t rinse your mouth vigorously or brush the surgical site immediately.
Skip heavy exercise for a few days.
Following these precautions can prevent complications and support proper healing.
It’s normal to experience mild bleeding and swelling. However, contact your oral surgeon if you notice:
Persistent bleeding after 24 hours
Signs of infection (fever, pus, increased pain)
Numbness or tingling that doesn’t go away
Our team at Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is always available to support you post-procedure.
At Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we’re committed to your comfort and safety—before, during, and after surgery. If you have questions about an upcoming oral surgery procedure, contact us today or schedule a consultation.
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]]>The post The Role of Oral Surgeons in Treating TMJ Disorder appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone (mandible) to your skull (temporal bone). It’s a critical joint that allows for the movement necessary for talking, eating, and swallowing. When something goes wrong with the joint, such as an injury, arthritis, or muscle tension, it can lead to a TMJ disorder.
TMJ disorders are often linked to jaw misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), and stress, but they can also result from an injury or genetic factors. The pain and discomfort can range from mild to severe, affecting your ability to perform normal activities and even leading to chronic pain or disability.
Oral surgeons are specially trained to evaluate and diagnose TMJ disorders. The diagnostic process generally involves the following steps:
During your initial visit, the oral surgeon will conduct a detailed evaluation of your jaw, teeth, and face. This includes palpating the jaw joint to check for tenderness, swelling, or clicking sounds, as well as examining your bite and jaw alignment.
Your surgeon will ask questions about your symptoms, including when the pain started, what aggravates it, and whether you experience any other related issues, such as headaches or neck pain.
To get a clearer picture of what might be causing the disorder, your surgeon may recommend imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. These tests help identify structural issues with the joint or surrounding tissues, such as damage to the cartilage, disc, or bone.
Before considering surgery, oral surgeons usually explore non-invasive treatments. These options can help alleviate symptoms and improve function for many patients.
Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants are often prescribed to help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Physical therapy can help improve jaw movement, reduce muscle tension, and correct misalignment issues. This includes exercises designed to strengthen the jaw muscles and increase flexibility.
If teeth grinding is contributing to the disorder, an oral surgeon may recommend a custom mouthguard or splint to reduce pressure on the TMJ and prevent further wear and tear.
Since stress is a common trigger for TMJ, stress management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be recommended to reduce muscle tension and prevent exacerbating the condition.
In cases where non-surgical treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, surgery may be required. Here are some surgical options that oral surgeons offer to treat TMJ disorders:
This minimally invasive procedure involves flushing out the TMJ with fluid to remove debris or inflammatory byproducts, reducing pain and improving joint movement.
Using a small camera and surgical instruments, the oral surgeon can access the joint and remove any damaged tissue or correct misalignments. Arthroscopy is less invasive than open surgery and typically involves a shorter recovery time.
For severe cases, where there is extensive damage to the TMJ, open joint surgery may be necessary. This involves making an incision to directly access the joint, allowing the surgeon to repair or replace damaged structures, such as the disc or bone.
In rare cases, if the TMJ is severely damaged, joint replacement may be recommended. This procedure involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one, providing long-term relief from pain and restoring jaw function.
TMJ disorders can be debilitating, causing pain that interferes with eating, talking, and even sleeping. By addressing the underlying causes with appropriate treatments, oral surgeons can significantly improve your quality of life. Here’s how:
Pain Relief: Whether through non-surgical options or surgery, treating TMJ disorders can help reduce or eliminate chronic pain, allowing you to resume normal activities.
Improved Function: Treatment can restore normal jaw function, making it easier to chew, speak, and perform daily tasks without discomfort.
Prevention of Further Damage: Early intervention helps prevent further damage to the joint, preserving long-term oral health and avoiding more complicated surgeries down the road.
Restored Confidence: By alleviating symptoms, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to engage in social situations, eat your favorite foods, and enjoy a better quality of life overall.
If you’re suffering from symptoms of TMJ, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can start feeling better. Contact Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced oral surgeons. We’ll help you understand your options and develop a personalized treatment plan to get you back to feeling your best.
By offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions, oral surgeons play a vital role in treating TMJ disorder. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can find lasting relief and restore your quality of life. Contact us today for an appointment and take the first step toward a pain-free future!
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]]>The post Dental Implants: A Life-Changing Solution for Missing Teeth appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>A dental implant is a small titanium post that serves as an artificial tooth root. Surgically placed into the jawbone, it integrates with the bone over time, creating a secure foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. This stability allows for a fully functional, natural-looking smile.
Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant is a step-by-step process designed to ensure long-term success:
1️⃣ Consultation & Assessment – Your dentist evaluates your oral health and creates a customized treatment plan.
2️⃣ Implant Placement – A titanium implant is carefully inserted into the jawbone.
3️⃣ Healing Period – During this stage, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, ensuring a strong foundation.
4️⃣ Custom Crown Fitting – To complete your smile, a custom-made crown is securely attached to the implant.
Each phase is crucial to achieving a natural and durable result.
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is their strength and stability. Unlike traditional dentures, implants allow you to enjoy all your favorite foods without worry. From crunchy apples to chewy steaks, your bite remains strong and secure. Say hello to a life full of flavor and confidence!
Tooth loss due to injury or decay can happen to anyone. The good news? Dental implants offer a permanent solution to restore your smile. By replacing missing teeth with implants, you regain function, confidence, and a natural-looking smile. Don’t let a lost tooth hold you back—dental implants can bring your smile back to life!
Looking to restore your smile? Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery provides expert care and personalized treatment to ensure the best results for every patient.
The post Dental Implants: A Life-Changing Solution for Missing Teeth appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>The post What to Expect After Wisdom Tooth Removal appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>It’s normal to experience swelling and mild discomfort for a few days after surgery. Apply ice packs to your cheeks in 20-minute intervals and take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical site.
Gently rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean, but avoid using a straw or vigorous rinsing, as this can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket.
Plan to rest for at least 24–48 hours. Avoid strenuous activities, bending over, or lifting heavy objects to prevent complications.
Some swelling and mild bleeding are normal, but if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your oral surgeon immediately.
🦷 Need expert wisdom tooth removal? Schedule a consultation with Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today!
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]]>The post 5 Signs You May Need to See an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>If you experience persistent pain in your jaw or have difficulty chewing, it could be a sign of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Oral surgeons can diagnose the problem and provide effective treatment options, including surgery if necessary, to relieve pain and improve jaw function.
Wisdom teeth often grow in at awkward angles or become trapped beneath the gumline, causing pain, swelling, or infection. Oral surgeons are experts in safely removing impacted wisdom teeth, helping you avoid complications like cysts or damage to nearby teeth.
If you’ve lost one or more teeth, dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking solution. However, patients with significant jawbone loss may also need bone grafting to ensure a stable foundation for the implants. Oral surgeons specialize in both procedures, ensuring optimal results.
Accidents that result in facial injuries, such as broken jaws or damaged teeth, require specialized care. Oral surgeons are skilled in repairing facial fractures, treating soft tissue injuries, and restoring your appearance and functionality.
Unexplained lumps, sores, or lesions in your mouth should never be ignored. Oral surgeons can perform biopsies to diagnose potentially serious conditions, including oral cancer, and guide you through the next steps in your care.
Our team combines expertise with compassionate care to address even the most complex oral health challenges. We use advanced technology and personalized treatment plans to ensure you receive the best care possible.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait to seek professional care. Contact Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help you achieve a healthier, pain-free future.
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]]>The post Start the New Year with Confidence: Why Oral Surgery Matters appeared first on Eastern Virginia OMS.
]]>Oral surgery plays a critical role in addressing a variety of dental and health concerns. From wisdom tooth removal to jaw alignment, skilled oral surgeons provide solutions that improve both functionality and appearance. In 2025, make oral health a priority to enjoy lasting benefits.
Here are some key reasons to consider oral surgery this year:
At Eastern Virginia OMS, our experienced surgeons use advanced technology and personalized care to deliver outstanding results. Here’s what sets us apart:
2025 is the perfect time to prioritize your oral health and overall well-being. Imagine starting the year free from pain, with improved oral functionality and a confident smile. At Eastern Virginia OMS, we’re dedicated to making that vision a reality.
Don’t wait to take the first step toward a healthier you. Schedule a consultation with Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today and make 2025 your best year yet!
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