At Brite Dental Partners in Battle Creek, MI, Dr. Brad Thayer and our experienced team offer a range of oral surgery procedures to address complex dental issues and restore your oral health. We prioritize your comfort and safety, ensuring each procedure is performed with the utmost care and precision.
Our top oral surgery services include:
- Frenectomies: A minor procedure to modify or remove the frenulum, a small tissue band in the mouth.
- Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Removal of impacted or problematic third molars.
- Gum Surgery: Procedures to treat gum disease, such as scaling and root planing, gum grafts, and flap surgery.
- Tooth Extraction: Removal of teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or overcrowded.
Frenectomies
Frenectomies are minor surgical procedures that involve modifying or removing the frenulum, a small band of tissue located in the mouth. Lingual frenectomies address the tissue under the tongue, often to correct "tongue-tie," which can hinder tongue movement and lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech impediments, and oral hygiene challenges. Labial frenectomies focus on the tissue inside the upper lip, and a tight labial frenulum can cause a gap between the front teeth, eating difficulties, or issues with orthodontic treatment. These procedures are generally quick and minimally invasive, offering significant improvements in oral function and comfort with a short recovery time. If you suspect a tight frenulum is causing problems for you or your child, please contact Brite Dental Partners. Dr. Brad Thayer can evaluate the situation and discuss potential treatment options, including frenectomies, to enhance oral health and overall well-being.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
At Brite Dental Partners, we understand that wisdom teeth can sometimes cause more trouble than they're worth. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Unfortunately, many people don't have enough room in their mouths for these teeth, leading to various issues that may require extraction.
While not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, extraction may be necessary if they are:
- Impacted (stuck beneath the gum line)
- Growing in at an angle
- Causing pain or discomfort
- Leading to infection or damage to adjacent teeth
Dr. Brad Thayer and our experienced team at Brite Dental Partners in Battle Creek, MI, can assess your wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action. We prioritize your comfort and safety throughout the process. If extraction is needed, we will ensure it is done as smoothly and painlessly as possible.
If you're experiencing any issues with your wisdom teeth or are curious about whether extraction is necessary, don't hesitate to contact us. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Thayer today to discuss your options and take a proactive step toward maintaining your oral health. We're here to help you make informed decisions and ensure your smile stays healthy and happy!
Gum Surgery
Gum surgery, also known as periodontal surgery, is a procedure to treat gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Gum disease is a serious infection that damages the soft tissues and bone that support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
At Brite Dental Partners, Dr. Brad Thayer offers several types of gum surgery to address various stages of gum disease:
- Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots.
- Gum graft surgery: Used to repair gum tissue that has been lost due to gum disease.
- Flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery): Lifts back the gums to remove tartar and bacteria from deep pockets.
- Crown lengthening: Adjusts the gum and bone level to expose more of the tooth’s surface.
Gum surgery might be recommended if you're experiencing certain signs of gum disease. These can include bleeding gums, even with gentle brushing, swollen or tender gums that are sensitive to the touch, receding gums that expose more of the tooth root, persistent bad breath that doesn't go away with regular brushing, loose teeth that feel like they're moving, or noticeable changes in your bite. These symptoms suggest potential issues with your gum health and warrant a professional evaluation to determine if gum surgery or other periodontal treatments are necessary.
Gingivectomy
At Brite Dental Partners in Battle Creek, MI, Dr. Brad Thayer and our team offer gingivectomies to address both gum health concerns and cosmetic smile enhancements. A gingivectomy is a procedure to remove excess gum tissue, which may be necessary due to gum disease or to correct a "gummy smile," where too much gum tissue shows when you smile.
A gingivectomy may be recommended for two primary reasons: to treat gum disease and to enhance the appearance of your smile. For individuals suffering from periodontitis, which causes gum inflammation and recession, a gingivectomy can effectively remove infected tissue, prevent further damage, and create a healthier environment for gum healing, thus promoting overall oral health. Additionally, for those seeking cosmetic improvements, a gingivectomy can address excess gum tissue that covers too much of the teeth, resulting in a "gummy smile." By reshaping the gumline, the procedure reveals more of the teeth, creating a more balanced, attractive, and confident smile.
Tooth Extraction
Sometimes, removing a tooth is the best solution for your oral health, whether due to severe decay, damage, overcrowding, or infection. At Brite Dental Partners in Battle Creek, MI, Dr. Brad Thayer and our caring team provide gentle and efficient tooth extraction services, always putting your comfort and well-being first. We strive to save your natural teeth whenever possible, but if extraction is necessary, we perform the procedure with the utmost care and precision. Beforehand, Dr. Thayer will conduct a thorough exam, including X-rays, to fully understand the situation. Afterward, we'll give you detailed aftercare instructions and be there to answer any questions as you heal. We know tooth extraction can feel stressful, so we've created a calming environment where you can feel confident in our care.
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or severely decayed tooth. At Brite Dental Partners in Battle Creek, MI, Dr. Brad Thayer provides expert root canal therapy to help save your natural tooth and relieve pain.
When the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected, it can cause significant pain and potentially lead to tooth loss if left untreated. A root canal involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and shaping the inside of the tooth, and then filling the space with a special material to prevent further infection. Finally, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to restore its strength and appearance.
You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- A dark discoloration of the tooth
- A small, pimple-like bump on the gums
Dr. Brad Thayer can evaluate your tooth, determine if a root canal is necessary, and provide gentle and effective treatment. Saving your natural tooth with a root canal can help maintain your bite, chewing ability, and smile.
Learn More at Your Surgical Consultation
Brite Dental Partners strives to create a calming environment and provide detailed pre- and post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth experience and optimal recovery. At your consultation, Dr. Thayer will conduct a thorough evaluation, including 3D digital X-rays and intraoral camera imaging, to accurately diagnose your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.
If you need oral surgery, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brad Thayer. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to restore your oral health and confidence.
