Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom teeth can cause pain, crowding, or infection. Our specialists offer gentle, expert extraction to prevent future dental complications.

Frequently asked questions:

How long will it take to recover from wisdom tooth surgery?

No two 3rd molar surgeries are alike. With that being said, the normal adolescent recovery for 4 wisdom teeth should be within 7 days, adults, depending on age can be longer.

Will I get swollen and for how long?

Most often there will be some degree of swelling and it is variable. It should begin to resolve by the 3rd day.

Will I be able to eat?

Yes, you can eat, chewing may be difficult for the 1st 2 days but is usually manageable.

We can replace missing teeth with long-lasting, natural-looking dental implants that restore your smile and improve function.

Frequently asked questions:

Are dental implants expensive?

While there are numerous options when considering dental implants, the cost is manageable and we invite you to discuss this with us to explore your options.

Are all dental implants the same?

No. There are over 300 dental implant manufacturers. You want to avoid the many companies producing “knockoff” implants for a fraction of the cost of a high quality implant.

Can I get teeth in one day?

That is possible, but only for a small number of cases. Generally treatment can range from one day to as long as six months depending on many variables.

Facial cleft surgery is a specialized procedure that corrects congenital facial clefts, such as cleft lip and palate. These birth differences occur when tissues in the face don't join completely during fetal development. Surgery aims to restore normal facial structure and function, improving speech, feeding, hearing, and breathing, as well as addressing the aesthetic aspects of the cleft. The timing and type of surgery depend on the individual's specific needs and the severity of the cleft. Our team of experienced craniofacial surgeons utilizes the latest techniques and technologies to provide comprehensive care, from initial diagnosis through post-operative support, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

We can correct misaligned jaws to improve function, bite alignment and facial balance. Our team works closely with orthodontists for comprehensive treatment planning.

Frequently asked questions:

How do I know if I need jaw surgery?

Those who have a poor facial profile and/or gross malocclusion (poor bite – gross overbite or underbite) usually need jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery.

If I need jaw surgery do I always need braces?

Yes, most often. The goal of jaw surgery is to obtain the best possible result, and all aspects of treatment must be coordinated and optimized.

If I have jaw surgery, how long will it take to recover?

Most patients are 75 percent recovered in one week and 90 percent recovered in two weeks. Recovery time varies depending on the patient’s age and specific surgery required.

As part of the Level II Trauma Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, our surgeons provide expert care for fractured jaws, broken facial bones and soft tissue injuries.

Frequently asked questions:

How do I know if I have a jaw fracture?

The degree and intensity of jaw fracture symptoms can vary. Generally, your bite will be disrupted and you will have some degree of localized pain and swelling.

Will my jaw fracture heal on its own?

Generally, no, and the longer it remains untreated (not stabilized) the greater your chances of developing a deep bone infection.

Do I need to have my jaw wired together if it breaks?

The treatment for any bone fracture is positioning (reduction of fracture) and stabilization of the bony segments. One of the most important aspects of treating a jaw fracture is the “bite”. In many cases, the most efficient treatment is to fixate (wire) the jaws together and restore the patient to their original bite.

Relieve jaw pain, clicking and discomfort caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders with customized treatment plans, including nonsurgical and surgical options.

Frequently asked questions:

Do I have TMJ?

Everyone has a temporomandibular joint (a right and a left) but not everyone has temporomandibular joint symptoms. Your TMJ is the joint that connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your head or temple bone.

How do I know if I have TMJ symptoms?

TMJ pain includes a wide range of facial pain symptoms, ranging from headaches to the inability to move or function with your lower jaw.

Who do I go to if I have TMJ problems?

There is no recognized specialist in TMJ diagnosis or treatment. It is best to start with your regular dentist and if symptoms persist, the most trained specialist in diagnosis and treatment of these symptoms is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

For patients needing dental implants but lacking sufficient bone, we offer advanced bone grafting and sinus lift procedures to rebuild jawbone strength.

Frequently asked questions:

Does every patient who gets implants need bone grafting?

No, not always. While some patients need extra bone to support the implant, others may already have enough. It depends on your individual needs and the type of final tooth replacement you want.

Do I have to use cadaver bone?

No, but in many cases, it’s the best option. For smaller bone grafts needed to properly place an implant, cadaver bone is commonly used because it’s safe, effective and provides the best results. However, there may be other options depending on your situation.

Is cadaver bone safe?

Yes, as long as a reputable biomaterial company is the supplier. We only use the most recognized corporate name in orthopedic/implant/bone surgery.

For moderate to severe sleep apnea cases, surgical options can help improve breathing, sleep quality, and overall health.

We diagnose and treat oral lesions, cysts, and tumors, providing early detection and intervention for serious conditions.

Frequently asked questions:

How do I know if I need a biopsy?

You may need a biopsy if you have a lump, sore, or abnormal tissue in your mouth that isn’t healing within a week. If you're unsure, it's best to see an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for an evaluation.

Can I have a problem without any pain?

Yes. Some oral and dental issues develop so slowly that you may not notice any symptoms for months or even years. Pain isn’t always the first sign of a problem.

How long does a cyst grow in my jaw?

Cysts in the jaw can grow slowly over many years. Some are related to tooth development, while others form for different reasons. Over time, they can enlarge and cause issues, which is why regular dental checkups are important.