While there’s no specific age, it’s generally recommended that children visit an orthodontist around age 7 to assess their dental development. However, adults can also benefit from orthodontics at any age.

Common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease include swollen, red, or tender gums; bleeding gums when brushing or flossing; persistent bad breath; receding gums; tooth sensitivity; loose or separating teeth; and changes in bite. However, in some cases, periodontal disease can be asymptomatic, so regular checkups with a periodontist are important for early detection.

There are several types or options for oral surgery that address different problems and conditions in the oral and maxillofacial cavity. Here are some examples of common types of oral surgery:

• Tooth extraction: Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure to remove a damaged, impacted, or crowded tooth. It may include the extraction of wisdom teeth and other problematic teeth.
• Dental implants: Dental implants are titanium structures that are placed in the jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. It is a permanent treatment option for replacing one or more missing teeth.
• Bone grafting surgery: This is used when there is a bone deficiency in the jaw, usually due to tooth loss or periodontal disease. Bone grafting involves taking bone from another area of ​​the body or using synthetic material and placing it in the affected area to promote bone growth and regeneration.
• Labial or lingual frenulum surgery: This procedure is performed to correct a short or tight labial or lingual frenulum that can cause problems with speech, chewing, or tooth alignment. The frenulum is cut or modified to improve proper movement and function.
• Orthognathic surgery: This procedure is performed to correct malocclusion problems and maxillofacial abnormalities, such as a protruding lower jaw, a receding jaw, an open bite, or a crossbite. Orthognathic surgery involves the surgical repositioning of the jawbones to improve facial function and aesthetics.
• Reconstructive jaw surgery: This procedure is performed to correct congenital defects, trauma, or diseases affecting the bone structure of the jaws. It may include reconstructing the jawbone or maxilla using bone grafting techniques or implants.
• Cyst and tumor surgery: This procedure is performed to remove benign or malignant cysts or tumors from the tissues of the oral and maxillofacial cavity. It may involve the removal of the affected tissue and, in some cases, subsequent reconstruction.

It is important to note that the need for and feasibility of a specific type of oral surgery may vary depending on the patient’s individual condition and circumstances. An oral or maxillofacial surgeon will evaluate the case and recommend the appropriate treatment.

During treatment, it is recommended to avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that may damage the brackets or wires.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with oral surgery. These can include infection, excessive bleeding, allergic reactions, damage to surrounding tissues or nerves, and scarring. However, these risks are minimized through the experience and care of the oral surgeon. All of these risks will be discussed with your oral surgeon before the procedure.

It’s recommended to take your child to a pediatric dentist when their first tooth appears or around their first birthday. Early dental visits are important for establishing good oral hygiene habits and detecting any dental problems in their early stages.

Dental CT scans are recommended when planning procedures such as dental implants, orthognathic surgery, complex extractions, or diagnosing cysts or tumors. They are also used to evaluate the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

If you experience loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or excessive daytime sleepiness, you should consult a specialist. In some cases, sleep studies may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Yes, at our sleep apnea clinic in Barcelona, ​​we have a team of sleep apnea specialists. We evaluate your case comprehensively and offer personalized solutions, such as mandibular advancement splints or the use of sleep apnea machines, according to your needs and preferences.