iney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Katy Blog

Can I Get Dental Implants if I Smoke?

December 4, 2022

Cigarettes, a danger to dental implants, sitting in ashtray

According to an estimate published by the CDC, nearly 40 million U.S. adults smoke cigarettes. This activity is strongly associated with numerous health problems, including cancer, respiratory issues, oral health problems, and more. If you smoke, it is logical to wonder how your habit may affect your prospects for tooth replacement. Specifically, you might want to know how smoking could affect your candidacy for dental implants. Read on below to discover some useful information.

(more…)

Am I a Candidate for General Anesthesia for Dental Treatment?

October 26, 2022

Surgical team working while patient is under general anesthesia

Dental sedation comes in various forms. For some people, a mild solution like nitrous oxide is enough to help them get through their treatment without anxiety or discomfort. For other individuals, a more powerful option, such as oral conscious sedation, is preferrable. In rare cases, general anesthesia — the most potent form of sedation — is necessary. Are you a candidate for it? This blog post discusses what it is and who may qualify for it.

(more…)

Beyond Anxiety Relief: Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

September 14, 2022

Relaxed female patient enjoying the benefits of sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is often marketed as a solution for people who struggle with a fear of the dentist. Certainly, it can help you if the idea of undergoing oral procedures makes you feel nervous or afraid. However, even if are perfectly calm during dental appointments, it may be recommended for you. Let’s talk about a few benefits of sedation dentistry that go far beyond anxiety relief.

(more…)

Can I Drink Alcohol after a Tooth Extraction?

August 20, 2022

Woman enjoying alcoholic beverage after recovering from a tooth extraction

Most people enjoy an occasional cocktail, beer, or glass of wine. If that is true of you, you might wonder how dental treatments may affect your ability to consume your favorite adult beverage. Is it okay to drink alcohol after a tooth extraction? Let’s talk about the answer to that question. We’ll also provide other tips to help you enjoy a smooth recovery from your procedure.

(more…)

Is It Safe to Fly After a Tooth Extraction?

August 10, 2022

Man at airport, preparing to fly after a tooth extraction

As a busy individual, it might be difficult for you to fit dental procedures into your schedule. You might feel that you have no choice but to board a flight within the days immediately following a tooth extraction. If the extraction was an emergency procedure, it can be even more difficult to reschedule your activities around it. But is it safe to fly after a tooth extraction? Let’s discuss why it is generally best to wait at least a few days before you take to the air.

(more…)

Oral Cancer: Stages, Prevention, and Treatment

July 16, 2022

Tablet with “oral cancer” written on it, surrounded by medical items

Each year, tens of thousands of people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer, and close to 10,000 people die from it. Although this disease is not as prevalent as other forms of cancer, it is still worthy of our attention. Let’s discuss the stages of this disease, why oral cancer screenings are so important, and how oral cancer is typically prevented and treated.

(more…)

The Concerning Connection Between Prediabetes and Sleep Apnea

June 13, 2022

Man checking blood sugar, concerned about sleep apnea

If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, you are probably working to reverse your condition by making dietary changes. Without a doubt, nutrition will play a large role in your future health. But did you know that the quality of your sleep can also have a bearing on whether your prediabetes progresses into type 2 diabetes? Let’s talk about the concerning connection between prediabetes and sleep apnea.

(more…)

Have TMJ Disorder? Stop Doing These 6 Things

May 27, 2022

Woman with TMJ disorder chewing on pen while working

TMJ disorder (TMD) is a common condition that can cause chronic jaw pain and a range of other unpleasant symptoms. If you are suffering from it, you should certainly seek professional treatment. In the meantime, though, there may be some simple steps you can take to mitigate your discomfort. In this blog post, we discuss six habits that should be avoided by individuals with TMD.

(more…)

Do Wisdom Teeth Stitches Dissolve on Their Own?

April 9, 2022

Gloved hand holding needle and thread for wisdom teeth stitches

When you undergo wisdom teeth removal, you should be feeling close to normal within 7 – 10 days after your surgery. At that point, you may be ready to leave the procedure in your past and move forward with your healthier smile — which means you might not like the idea of going back to your oral surgeon to get stitches removed. Do wisdom teeth stitches dissolve on their own? This blog post discusses the answer to that question and provides tips for caring for your stitches.

(more…)

What to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Extractions

March 18, 2022

Mashed potatoes, a good food to eat after wisdom tooth extractions

Most people find that their mouth is fairly well-recovered within 7 – 10 days after wisdom tooth extractions. During that brief recovery period, it is important that you adjust your routine to facilitate a comfortable and complication-free recovery. One of the biggest aspects of your life that will be affected is your diet. What should you eat after your procedure, and what foods should you temporarily avoid? Here is a brief guide to help you out.

(more…)