Oral surgery might sound intimidating—but for many patients, it’s a routine and essential part of maintaining long-term oral health. At EOS Oral Surgery, we specialize in a wide range of procedures, from simple extractions to complex jaw surgeries, all with one goal in mind: to restore comfort, function, and confidence in your smile.
In this article, I’ll break down some of the most common types of oral surgery we perform—including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery—and explain when and why each one may be necessary.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually erupt between ages 17 and 25. In many cases, they don’t have enough space to grow in properly, which can lead to:
- Impaction (when teeth are trapped in the gums or jawbone)
- Crowding of other teeth
- Infections or gum inflammation
- Pain and swelling in the jaw
Removing them early—often before symptoms arise—can prevent future issues and allow for a quicker recovery. Wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common types of teeth removal procedures we perform. Removing wisdom teeth early—before tooth roots fully develop—leads to a smoother tooth extraction and healing process.
“Early evaluation in the late teens helps us catch potential problems before they begin. It’s often much easier to remove wisdom teeth before the roots are fully developed.”
— Dr. Brett Voegele, Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dental Implants
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants are the most advanced and long-lasting replacement option. A dental implant consists of a small titanium post placed into the jawbone, topped with a custom-made crown. It looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth. Dental implant surgery offers a highly effective way to replace missing teeth with restorations that look and function just like your natural teeth. In some cases, a bone graft may be necessary to ensure enough jawbone support for successful placement.
Dental implants are recommended when:
- A tooth is lost due to injury, decay, or gum disease
- You want a more stable solution than dentures or bridges
- You’re looking for a permanent, natural-looking option
Bone grafting may be necessary if there’s not enough healthy bone in the area to support the implant.
Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Corrective jaw surgery is performed to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Jaw surgery may also address congenital conditions like cleft lips and palates, or be recommended alongside orthodontic treatment to improve bite alignment and facial balance. It’s typically recommended when jaw misalignment causes:
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ disorders
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Open bite or underbite
This surgery is carefully planned with digital imaging and performed under general anesthesia. Post-surgical results often include improved jaw function, facial aesthetics, and quality of life.
A Collaborative Approach to Oral Health
Whether you’re coming in for a simple extraction or a more advanced procedure, we work closely with your general dentist or orthodontist to ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated care.
“The most successful outcomes happen when we take a team-based approach. We collaborate with your referring providers to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.”
— Dr. Diana Jee Hyun Lyu, Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Considering Oral Surgery? Let’s Talk.
Our job at EOS is to guide you through every step—from consultation to recovery—with clarity, compassion, and expertise. We’re here to answer your questions, ease your concerns, and help you move forward with confidence.
