Facial trauma and pathology can result in a significant loss of bone and soft tissue in the mouth, jaws and sinuses. Structural damage in the oral region can impact every major system of your body, especially the respiratory, sinus and digestive systems. Significant facial trauma or pathology requires a surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating maxillofacial damage.
The systems that comprise the mouth and face are intricate and intertwined. Oral maxillofacial surgeons are trained to understand the complex structures in and around the mouth and jaw, so they best know what course of treatment a patient needs and how to do it.
Who Needs a Full Mouth Reconstruction?
There are several reasons an adult may experience extensive tooth loss. While a solid daily dental hygiene routine can go a long way in preventing catastrophic tooth, gum and bone loss, not everyone is blessed with the health circumstances for that to be enough. The most common reasons a person may experience extensive mouth damage that requires full oral reconstruction include:
- A lifetime of poor oral hygiene
- Diabetes (chronic elevated blood sugar)
- Eating disorders (especially bulimia and anorexia)
- Facial trauma (accident, assault, etc)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Health conditions that inhibit the immune system (Crohn’s, HIV/AIDS, lupus, etc)
- Mineral deficiencies in childhood (low calcium, vitamin C, D, etc)
- Substance use disorders (including alcoholism and tobacco addiction)
Even complicated cases are treatable with the right oral and maxillofacial surgeon, so don’t lose hope of a beautiful smile after suffering extensive oral damage. Wilmington Oral Surgery can get you to your best possible state of dental health, restoring your appearance and quality of life.
An Experienced Oral Reconstruction Surgeon Serving Cincinnati Patients with Gentle Care
Dr. Puckett has extensive training and experience diagnosing and treating cases of orofacial damage, from the simple repairs to complex reconstruction. Minor procedures are performed in the office with IV anesthesia, and might include tooth extraction, dental bone grafting and tooth replacement.
More complex cases are routinely performed at Clinton Memorial Hospital in Cincinnati, where he maintains surgical privileges, performing everything from pediatric maxillofacial surgeries to emergency facial trauma reconstructions.
Patients requiring extensive orofacial rebuilding might need the expertise of more than just a facial trauma surgeon. Often, these cases require teams of specialists to work together, such as ophthalmologists and otolaryngologists. Dr. Puckett is experienced and adept at working in tandem with other orofacial and ENS specialists in cases of facial trauma.
Full Mouth Reconstruction with the Most Holistic Surgical Methods
Dr. Puckett specializes in whole mouth reconstruction, which includes both bone and soft tissue restoration. Frequently, dental implants are an integral part of the reconstruction, because they provide the most comprehensive, permanent form of tooth replacement while preserving the long-term health of your jaw. Prosthetic teeth are a slower process than having dentures or bridges made, but their benefits are more than worth it:
- The most permanent form of mouth reconstruction
- Natural options for ceramic dental implants
- Only require the standard oral care you perform daily
- Mimic the look and bite power of natural tooth tissue
- Stabilize the rest of your teeth/alignment
- Restore proper tooth function above and below the gum line
Dental implant surgery is a fairly simple procedure, but does require healing time, and patience on the part of both the oral reconstruction surgeon and the patient is key. Dental implants, once healed, can last a lifetime if you care for them properly, offering permanent and holistic mouth reconstruction.
A team approach is important for facial reconstruction cases, especially in cases of advanced pathology or acute facial trauma. Dr. Puckett and his staff understand and embrace the need for all parties to be involved for the best surgical and restorative outcome. With an emphasis on patient-focused, gentle care and comprehensive cosmetic and restorative dentistry, Dr. Puckett can help recover the function, appearance and health of your mouth and jaw.
