Most dental problems can be solved with routine, conservative treatment, such as a filling, a cleaning, or a simple crown. There are times, however, when the health of your mouth calls for something more involved. Oral surgery is the branch of dentistry that addresses conditions which cannot be resolved with everyday care, and at Infinite Dental Wellness in Glendale, CA, Dr. Leon Kiraj and Dr. Liana Muradyan provide these services with the same gentle, patient-first approach our community has come to trust. If you have been told you need a tooth removed, have an impacted wisdom tooth, or are coping with an injury or infection that will not heal on its own, oral surgery may be the right path forward. Call us at (818) 541-1110 to discuss your situation.
What Is Oral Surgery?
Some of the most common reasons patients come to us for oral surgery include removing teeth that are decayed beyond repair, extracting impacted wisdom teeth that cannot erupt properly, treating infections that have spread into the bone, addressing facial trauma, and preparing the mouth for restorations such as dentures or bridges. Because every mouth is different, the first step is always a thorough examination and, in many cases, digital imaging so we can see exactly what is happening beneath the surface.
Why Do People Get Oral Surgery?
People seek oral surgery for many different reasons, but the underlying theme is usually that a problem has progressed past the point where a filling or cleaning can fix it. Understanding the common reasons can help you recognize when it may be time to call our office.
- Tooth extraction: When a tooth is severely decayed, fractured below the gum line, or so loose from gum disease that it cannot be saved, removing it protects the surrounding teeth and tissues.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: Third molars often do not have room to come in. When they push against neighboring teeth or remain trapped in the gum and bone, they can cause pain, swelling, and infection, making removal the healthiest choice.
- Treating infection: An abscess or deep infection that reaches the root or jawbone may require surgical drainage or endodontic surgery to save the tooth and stop the infection from spreading.
- Bone augmentation: When bone has been lost to disease or a long-missing tooth, a procedure to rebuild or preserve bone can create a stable foundation for future restorations such as a bridge or denture.
- Repairing injury: Accidents, sports, and falls can damage teeth and the bone that supports them. Surgery can repair these injuries and restore both comfort and appearance.
- Preparing for tooth replacement: Smoothing or reshaping the bone and gums after an extraction helps removable dentures or fixed bridges fit comfortably and look natural.
Signs You May Need Oral Surgery
You do not have to diagnose yourself, but certain symptoms are worth bringing to our attention promptly. Persistent or throbbing tooth pain, swelling of the gums or jaw, difficulty opening your mouth, and a tooth that has become loose in adulthood can all point to a problem that may need surgical care. Other warning signs include ongoing bad breath or a bad taste that will not go away, which can indicate infection, as well as pain or pressure at the very back of the mouth, often a sign of impacted wisdom teeth. If you have experienced facial trauma or a knocked-out or fractured tooth, treat it as an emergency and call us right away.
What Are the Signs That I May Need Endodontic Surgery?
Endodontic surgery focuses on the inside of the tooth and the tip of the root. You may need it when a previous root canal has not fully healed, when infection lingers at the root tip, or when an X-ray reveals a problem near the root that cannot be reached through ordinary treatment. Lingering tenderness when biting, recurring swelling, or a small bump on the gum near a treated tooth are common indicators. During your visit, we will evaluate the tooth and explain whether endodontic surgery is the best way to preserve it.
What Is Bone Augmentation?
Bone augmentation is a procedure that rebuilds or preserves the bone in your jaw. When a tooth is lost or removed, the bone that once supported it can begin to shrink over time. This loss of bone can make the area less stable and can affect how well a future denture or bridge fits. By adding grafting material to the site, we encourage your body to maintain a strong, healthy ridge of bone. Bone augmentation is often recommended right after an extraction to preserve the site, or later if bone has already been lost. The result is a more solid foundation for restorations and a more natural facial appearance.
How Do I Prepare for Oral Surgery?
Good preparation makes for a smoother procedure and an easier recovery. Before your surgery, our team will review your medical history and any medications you take, so be sure to mention blood thinners, supplements, and any chronic conditions. We will give you specific, written instructions tailored to your procedure. In general, preparing well includes a few key steps.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and plan for a calm, restful day after the appointment.
- Fill any prescriptions ahead of time and stock up on soft foods such as yogurt, soup, smoothies, and mashed potatoes.
- Ask us any questions in advance so you feel informed and at ease on the day of treatment.
Comfort and Technology at Our Glendale Office
We know that the words oral surgery can make anyone a little nervous, which is why comfort is at the heart of how we practice. As a mercury-free office, we use safe, modern materials, and our gentle approach is something patients mention again and again in our 300-plus reviews. We take the time to explain each step, answer your questions, and make sure you are numb and relaxed before we begin. Depending on the procedure and your comfort level, we can discuss options to help you feel calm throughout. Our husband-and-wife team, both trained at the University of Southern California, brings skill and a steady, reassuring presence to every appointment.
Can You Provide Oral Surgery if I Am Currently Treated by Another Dentist?
Absolutely. You do not have to leave your current dentist to receive oral surgery with us. Many patients come to Infinite Dental Wellness specifically for a procedure while continuing their routine care elsewhere. We are happy to coordinate with your dentist, review any records or images you bring, and return you to their care once your surgery and healing are complete. Whether you have been referred to us or found us on your own, we welcome the opportunity to help. Call (818) 541-1110 to set up a consultation.
What Is Recovery From Oral Surgery Like?
Recovery depends on the procedure you have, but most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable it is when they follow their aftercare instructions. For a simple extraction, you may feel back to normal within a few days. More involved procedures naturally take a bit longer. In the first 24 hours, your main job is to allow a protective blood clot to form and protect the surgical site. Some swelling, mild bleeding, and tenderness are normal in the early days and steadily improve.
How Long Will the Recovery Process Take?
Initial healing of the soft tissue typically occurs over the first one to two weeks, while deeper healing of the bone continues quietly for several weeks beyond that. Most people return to work or school within a day or two for routine extractions. We will give you a realistic timeline for your specific case and remain available throughout your healing to answer questions or address any concerns.
Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Rest for the first day and keep your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in intervals during the first 24 hours.
- Eat soft, nourishing foods and avoid hot, crunchy, or spicy items until you are healed.
- Do not use straws, smoke, or spit forcefully, as the suction can dislodge the healing clot.
- Keep the area clean with gentle rinses of warm salt water as directed, beginning the day after surgery.
- Take any prescribed or recommended medication as directed to stay ahead of discomfort.
- Call us promptly if you notice increasing pain after a few days, heavy bleeding, fever, or unusual swelling.
Candidacy: Is Oral Surgery Right for You?
The only way to know for certain whether you need oral surgery is to be evaluated by a dentist. Good candidates are people whose dental problems cannot be solved with conservative treatment and who are in reasonable general health for the procedure planned. During your consultation, we will examine your mouth, take any necessary images, review your health history, and discuss your goals. From there, we will recommend the most appropriate and least invasive solution. In some cases, that may be a procedure other than surgery; our priority is always your health and comfort, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of oral surgery varies with the complexity of the procedure, and we believe you deserve a clear understanding of your investment before treatment begins. We accept all PPO dental insurance plans and will help you understand your benefits and any out-of-pocket portion. Please note that we do not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal. Our team will provide a transparent estimate and review payment details with you in advance, so there are no surprises. If cost is a concern, talk with us; we want to help you get the care you need.
Why Choose Infinite Dental Wellness in Glendale
Choosing where to have oral surgery is an important decision, and our patients tell us they value the combination of expertise and genuine compassion they find here. Infinite Dental Wellness is led by Dr. Leon Kiraj and Dr. Liana Muradyan, a USC-trained husband-and-wife team who have built a reputation for gentle, thorough care across all ages. We are proud of our 4.9-star rating and more than 300 reviews from neighbors throughout Glendale and the surrounding communities. As a mercury-free practice that offers same-day emergency appointments, we are equipped to help whether your need is planned or urgent. Most of all, we treat every patient the way we would treat our own family.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you are experiencing tooth pain, swelling, an injury, or have been told you may need a tooth removed, do not wait for the problem to worsen. The sooner we evaluate your mouth, the more options we typically have to protect your health and comfort. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through every step. Call Infinite Dental Wellness at (818) 541-1110 today to schedule your oral surgery consultation in Glendale, CA, and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.