Oral Surgery

Oral surgery is another area emphasized by Dr. McGregor. He has received extensive postgraduate education and experience in oral surgery. His referrals to oral surgery specialists are limited to the most complicated cases and those of his choice. This means fewer appointments and more efficiency for you when oral surgery is your dental need.

Wisdom Teeth Removal (3rd molar extractions)

Removal of wisdom teeth---those molars farthest back in the mouth---is recommended when there is infection, severe decay, crowding, impaction in the jaw, or orthodontic complications.

It is recommended to remove all wisdom teeth around the age of 15 or 16 when the teeth are still forming and have not had a chance to cause problems. A panolipse x-ray is required to see placement of teeth and the proximity to the mandibular nerve (lower jaw). You will be given verbal and written post-operative instruction, premedication information and will sign an informed consent from before the extractions will be done. You may be referred to an oral surgery specialist if indicated by your exam and x-ray results.

This procedure for 4 wisdom teeth takes 90 minutes to two hours. You will normally be premedicated and need to have a driver come with you to the appointment. You will receive medications and post-operative instructions. Most people miss very little work, especially when their treatment is planned right before a weekend.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a titanium metal replacement for a root of a tooth that is surgically implanted in the jawbone. As the body heals for approximately two to six months after the surgery, the bone around the implant fuses to the implant through a process called osseointegration.

When getting dental implants, you should select a dentist with a dental team with in-depth knowledge and prior experience with all aspects of the treatment. At Briarwood Dental, we have this expertise.

It is also important to know that implant treatment consists of two components: a surgical phase and a restorative phase. Usually, Dr. McGregor works with a team of either a periodontist or an oral surgeon who performs the surgical component. Then together with a laboratory technician, Dr. McGregor performs the restorative component.

Call 515.965.5999 or 800.373.9389 for your consultation.