Summit Oral and Facial Surgery provides comprehensive oral and maxillofacial surgical services in Aurora, Colorado, treating patients across the Denver metro area. Our practice specializes in tooth extraction, dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and corrective jaw surgery. We serve patients seeking surgical solutions for complex dental and facial conditions.

Reviewed by Summit Oral and Facial Surgery — Aurora, CO

What Oral Surgeons Do

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dentists with an additional 4–6 years of surgical training beyond dental school. They diagnose and surgically treat diseases, injuries, and defects of the mouth, jaw, teeth, and facial structures. Unlike general dentists, oral surgeons perform procedures requiring sedation or general anesthesia, extract impacted teeth, place dental implants, perform bone grafting, correct jaw misalignment, and treat facial trauma. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AOMS) certifies surgeons who meet rigorous educational and examination standards.

Common Procedures Oral Surgeons Perform

Oral surgeons in the Aurora area treat a range of conditions. Wisdom tooth extraction is the most frequent procedure—approximately 65% of Americans have at least one impacted wisdom tooth requiring removal. Dental implant placement involves surgically anchoring a titanium post into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth; success rates exceed 95% when proper bone density exists. Tooth extraction for severely decayed or damaged teeth, bone grafting to rebuild jaw structure before implant placement, and orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery to treat bite problems and sleep apnea are also common. Oral surgeons also treat facial trauma, remove benign oral tumors, and address temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Anesthesia and Sedation Options

Oral surgeons offer multiple anesthesia levels depending on procedure complexity and patient anxiety. Local anesthesia numbs only the surgical site and is used for simple extractions; the patient remains fully awake. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) combined with local anesthesia reduces anxiety while maintaining consciousness. IV sedation (twilight sleep) induces a relaxed, semi-conscious state; patients do not remember the procedure but can respond to commands. General anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious and is reserved for complex surgeries, pediatric patients, or those with severe anxiety. An anesthesiologist or trained oral surgeon administers and monitors anesthesia throughout the procedure.

Recovery Expectations by Procedure

| Procedure | Typical Recovery | Return to Normal Diet | Time Off Work |
|———–|——————|———————-|—————-|
| Simple tooth extraction | 7–10 days | 1–2 weeks | 2–3 days |
| Impacted wisdom teeth | 10–14 days | 2–3 weeks | 3–5 days |
| Dental implant placement | 3–6 months (osseointegration) | 2–4 weeks | 1–2 days |
| Bone graft | 4–12 months (healing) | 2–4 weeks | 3–5 days |
| Corrective jaw surgery | 6–12 weeks | 4–6 weeks | 2–4 weeks |

Swelling and bruising peak 48–72 hours after surgery and gradually resolve over 1–2 weeks. Pain is typically managed with prescribed opioids or over-the-counter analgesics. Patients should avoid strenuous activity, smoking, and alcohol for at least one week post-op.

What You Can Expect at Summit Oral and Facial Surgery

Summit Oral and Facial Surgery is located in Aurora and serves patients throughout the Denver metro region. The practice uses advanced diagnostic imaging, including cone-beam CT scans, to plan complex surgical cases with precision. Patients receive detailed pre-operative consultations to discuss anesthesia options, recovery timelines, and realistic outcomes. The surgical team coordinates with referring dentists and specialists to ensure continuity of care. Post-operative follow-up appointments monitor healing and address any complications promptly.

The practice maintains a surgical facility equipped for in-office procedures ranging from routine extractions to complex reconstructive surgery. Staff members are trained in emergency protocols and patient safety. Most patients appreciate the convenience of having their oral surgery performed locally rather than traveling to a hospital or distant surgical center.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need an oral surgeon?

Your general dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon if you have impacted wisdom teeth, need complex extractions, require dental implants, have a jaw deformity, or have sustained facial trauma. Some patients seek oral surgery consultation directly for a second opinion on treatment options.

What is the cost of oral surgery in Aurora?

Costs vary widely by procedure. Simple extractions range from $150–$400 per tooth; impacted wisdom teeth removal costs $300–$800 per tooth. Dental implant placement runs $1,500–$3,000 per implant, not including the crown. Bone grafts add $300–$1,200. Most insurance plans cover medically necessary extractions and some implant costs; cosmetic procedures are typically not covered. Ask your surgeon’s office for a detailed estimate and insurance verification before scheduling.

How long does wisdom teeth removal take?

A simple extraction of one wisdom tooth takes 15–30 minutes. Impacted wisdom teeth requiring bone removal and tooth sectioning take 30–60 minutes per tooth. Removing all four wisdom teeth in one appointment typically takes 60–90 minutes. The actual surgical time is shorter than the total appointment time because of anesthesia administration and post-operative monitoring.

What are the risks of oral surgery?

Common minor risks include swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, and dry socket (delayed healing in the extraction site). Serious complications—nerve damage, excessive bleeding, infection, or anesthesia reactions—occur in fewer than 1% of cases. Choosing a board-certified oral surgeon and following post-operative instructions significantly reduce complication risk.

Can I drive home after oral surgery?

No. If you receive IV sedation or general anesthesia, you cannot drive for at least 24 hours. Anesthesia impairs judgment and reaction time even after you feel alert. You must arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours. Local anesthesia alone does not prevent driving if no sedation is used.

What should I eat after oral surgery?

Stick to soft, cool foods for the first week: yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, mashed potatoes, ice cream, and soup (cooled to lukewarm). Avoid hot foods, hard or crunchy items, straws, and spicy foods, which can irritate the surgical site or dislodge blood clots. After one week, gradually return to normal foods as comfort allows.

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