Dentoalveolar Surgery
About Dentalveolar Surgery
Conditions involving the teeth, gums, jawbone and other soft tissues within the mouth may require your Dentist to refer you to Dr Tuckett for ongoing treatment. These include:
- Removal of bony outgrowths (tori) from the Jaws or Palate
- Surgery to prepare the bone and gums for Implant, Crown or denture placement (Preprosthetic Surgery)
- Exposure and bonding of an impacted tooth to allow an Orthodontist to guide the tooth into its correct position in your smile.
- Extraction of a brittle previously root canal treated tooth
- Extraction of teeth with multiple, large, curved roots
- Extraction of a tooth fused to the jawbone (ankylosis)
- Extraction of impacted or misplaced teeth
- Removal of retained tooth roots
How are these conditions treated?
At your initial consultation, Dr Tuckett will take a thorough history, perform a comprehensive examination and review any x-rays of your mouth which your Dentist may have organised. He will advise if any further investigations are required.
Dr Tuckett will explain to you all the treatment options available, this may include conservative management or surgery under local or general anaesthetic. Dr Tuckett will discuss any procedures and any associated risks in depth. He will also advise you of what to expect in the post-operative period.
What does Dentoalveolar surgery involve?
There are two safe ways to undertake dentoalveolar surgery: For simple procedures, a Local anaesthetic may be used. This is where you are awake but numbed from pain and is generally only recommended in minor procedures.
For more complex procedures or in patients who prefer to be asleep, a general anaesthetic may be required. This is usually performed in a hospital where one of our experienced Specialist Anaesthetists attends the operation to put you to sleep while Dr Tuckett operates.
How long is the recovery from Dentoalveolar Surgery?
Most patients find some mild to moderate swelling and discomfort over the first three to four days. This usually settles over a week though some patients may take longer. Usually patients will take pain killers for several days after surgery and we will tailor these to minimise any discomfort. Depending on the complexity of the surgery, some people require only a few hours to recovery and some require a week to recover from surgery. Our team can provide you with a medical certificate if required.
After your procedure, Dr Tuckett will provide you with specific instructions regarding your post-operative care, general instructions are available here.
Are there any risks of surgery?
Dentoalveolar surgery is a very safe procedure. The risks involve will depend on your medical history, surgical condition and anatomy. Dr Tuckett will discuss a personalised risk profile with you at your pre-operative consultation appointment.
About Dr Joel Tuckett
Dr Tuckett is a contemporarily trained Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. He engages in a patient centred approach to ensure a caring and comfortable journey from initial consultation to discharge.
Dr Tuckett is and internationally published author in the fields of Facial trauma, Antibiotic stewardship, Radiotherapy induced Xerostomia, Parotid surgery and Head and Neck cancer. He is a senior lecturer at the University of Queensland where he educates both medical and dental students.
He currently has public appointments at the Princess Alexandra, STARS and Mackay Base hospitals where he works to train the new generation of surgeon.