- Expert Surgical Care
Oral Surgery in Richmond, TX
Advanced oral surgery services including tooth extractions, wisdom tooth removal, and other surgical procedures performed with precision, comfort, and personalized care at My Glow Up Dentistry.
Understanding Oral Surgery and When You May Need It
Oral surgery, also called oral and maxillofacial surgery in clinical terms, covers any surgical procedure performed on the teeth, gums, jawbone, or surrounding facial structures. The medical term is dento-alveolar surgery for procedures involving teeth and the supporting bone, or maxillofacial surgery for more complex jaw and facial reconstruction cases.
At My Glow Up Dentistry, we focus on dental oral surgery procedures that can be performed in a general dental practice setting. This includes everything from routine extractions to implant placement, bone grafting, frenectomies, and apicoectomies. For highly complex cases requiring hospital-based care, we provide referrals to trusted specialists in the Fort Bend area.
Signs You May Need Oral Surgery
You may be a candidate for oral surgery if you have any of the following:
- A tooth that cannot be saved with a dental filling, crown, or root canal and needs extraction
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted, partially erupted, or causing pain and crowding
- One or more missing teeth requiring dental implant placement
- Bone loss in the jaw that needs grafting before implants can be placed
- A persistent infection at the root tip of a tooth that has already had a root canal (apicoectomy)
- A tongue tie or lip tie restricting speech, feeding, or movement (frenectomy)
- Gum disease that has not responded to non-surgical treatment
- Insufficient jawbone height above the sinus for implant placement in the upper jaw (sinus lift)
If you are not sure whether you need surgery, a consultation with Dr. Unegbu is the right starting point. We assess your X-rays, review your history, and give you a clear recommendation with all your options explained before you commit to anything.
Types of Oral Surgery We Offer in Richmond, TX
Below is a summary of the types of oral surgery available in Richmond, TX at My Glow Up Dentistry, with typical recovery timeframes for each.
Procedure | What it treats | Typical recovery |
Tooth Extraction | Severe decay, infection, overcrowding, failed root canal | 2 to 7 days for soft tissue. 3 to 6 months for bone |
Wisdom Tooth Removal | Impacted, painful, or overcrowding third molars | 3 to 7 days swelling. Full healing 2 to 4 weeks |
Dental Implant Placement | Missing teeth, tooth loss from decay, injury, or disease | 2 to 4 months osseointegration. Crown placed after |
Bone Grafting | Bone loss before implant placement. Post-extraction sites | 3 to 6 months depending on graft size |
Sinus Lift | Insufficient bone in upper jaw for implant placement | 6 to 9 months before implant placement |
Frenectomy | Tongue tie or lip tie restricting movement or speech | 1 to 2 weeks. Often laser-assisted at our practice |
Apicoectomy | Failed root canal, persistent infection at root tip | 1 to 2 weeks soft tissue. Full healing several months |
Periodontal Surgery | Advanced gum disease not resolved by deep cleaning alone | 2 to 4 weeks depending on extent of procedure |
Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction is the most common dental surgery procedure we perform. When a tooth is too damaged by decay, infection, or trauma to be saved with a restoration, extraction is the safest and most effective solution.
Simple extractions involve a tooth that has fully erupted and can be removed with forceps under local anesthetic. Surgical extractions are needed when the tooth is broken below the gumline, has curved roots, or has not fully emerged. Dr. Unegbu performs both types at our Richmond, TX location.
After tooth extraction in Richmond, TX, we discuss tooth replacement options, including dental implants, bridges, or dentures, so you leave with a clear plan for restoring your smile.
Wisdom Tooth Removal in Richmond, TX
Impacted wisdom teeth are one of the most frequent reasons patients seek oral surgery in Richmond, TX. When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to erupt properly, they can become trapped in the jaw, push against neighboring teeth, or create pockets where bacteria accumulate.
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Left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth in Richmond, TX can cause significant pain, damage to adjacent teeth, cysts, and recurring infections. Removal is straightforward when done early, before the roots are fully developed and the bone is less dense.
Dr. Unegbu removes wisdom teeth under local anesthetic or with sedation depending on the complexity of the case and your preference. Most patients return to normal activity within three to five days.
Dental Implant Placement in Richmond, TX
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. We place the titanium implant post surgically into the jawbone, allow it to integrate with the bone over two to four months (osseointegration), and then attach a custom-made crown.
Dental implants in Richmond, TX at My Glow Up Dentistry are suitable for patients who have lost one or more teeth and have sufficient bone to support the implant. For patients with bone loss, a bone graft may be performed first or at the same time as the extraction.
Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that follows tooth extraction. Most major insurance plans do not cover the full cost, but we offer financing through CareCredit.
Bone Grafting in Richmond, TX
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that adds bone material to areas of the jaw that have experienced bone loss. It is most commonly performed to prepare the site for a future dental implant.
Bone grafts in Richmond, TX use biocompatible grafting material (processed donor bone or synthetic alternatives) placed at the extraction site or area of loss. Over the following months, your body remodels this material into natural bone, creating the density needed to support an implant.
Socket preservation grafts are often placed at the time of extraction to prevent the bone loss that naturally occurs after a tooth is removed. This is particularly important if implant placement is planned.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift is a type of bone graft performed specifically in the upper back jaw, where the sinus cavity sits close to the jawbone. When there is insufficient bone height between the jaw and the sinus floor for a dental implant, a sinus lift creates space by elevating the sinus membrane and filling the area with bone graft material.
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This is a routine oral surgery procedure for patients who want upper jaw implants but lack the bone volume. Recovery takes several months before implant placement can proceed, but the long-term result is a stable implant in an area that would otherwise be unsuitable.
Frenectomy in Richmond, TX
A frenectomy is a minor oral surgery procedure that removes or releases the frenulum, the small band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual frenulum) or the upper lip to the gum (labial frenulum).
We perform frenectomies in Richmond, TX for patients of all ages. In infants and children, tongue tie or lip tie can affect feeding and speech development. In adults, a tight frenulum can create gaps between front teeth or affect gum health. Laser-assisted frenectomies allow for minimal bleeding, faster healing, and no sutures in many cases.
Apicoectomy
An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed when a root canal has not fully resolved an infection at the tip of the tooth root. The procedure involves making a small incision in the gum, removing the infected tissue and the tip of the root, and sealing the root end with a biocompatible filling material.
An apicoectomy allows us to save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction. It is typically done under local anesthetic and has a relatively quick recovery of one to two weeks for the soft tissue.
Sedation Options for Oral Surgery
Oral surgery can cause anxiety. At My Glow Up Dentistry, we offer sedation options to ensure every patient is comfortable throughout their procedure.
- Local anesthetic: numbs the treatment area completely. Standard for all surgical procedures
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): mild sedation that reduces anxiety while keeping you conscious and responsive
- Oral sedation: a prescription medication taken before your appointment that creates a deeper state of relaxation. You remain conscious but may have little memory of the procedure
- IV sedation: for complex cases or patients with significant dental anxiety. Administered by a licensed provider. You are in a deep relaxed state throughout
During your consultation, Dr. Unegbu will discuss the most appropriate sedation option for your oral surgery based on the procedure, your health history, and your comfort level. You will need a driver if you choose oral sedation or IV sedation.
Recovery From Oral Surgery: What to Expect
Recovery timelines vary by procedure. Here is a practical guide to the first week after dental surgery.
First 24 Hours
- Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding for the first two hours. Change gauze every 30 to 45 minutes
- Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals to reduce swelling
- Keep your head elevated, even when sleeping, to minimize swelling
- Stick to cold or room-temperature soft foods: yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, ice cream
- Take prescribed medications as directed. Do not skip doses even if pain seems manageable
- No smoking, alcohol, or using a straw. Suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket
Days 2 to 7
- Swelling typically peaks at 48 to 72 hours and then begins to subside. This is normal
- Rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery
- Soft foods can gradually be expanded: scrambled eggs, soft pasta, mashed potatoes
- Avoid crunchy, hard, or spicy foods until cleared by your dentist
- Light activity only. Avoid exercise and strenuous activity for the first three to five days
When to Call Us
Contact My Glow Up Dentistry at (346) 843-8743 if you experience any of the following after oral surgery:
- Bleeding that does not stop after 90 minutes of consistent gauze pressure
- Severe, worsening pain after the third day (may indicate dry socket or infection)
- Fever above 101°F
- Swelling that continues to increase after 72 hours
- Numbness that has not resolved 24 hours after the procedure
How Much Does Oral Surgery Cost in Richmond, TX?
The cost of oral surgery in Richmond, TX depends on the procedure, the complexity of your case, and your insurance coverage. Here are general ranges based on the Fort Bend area market:
- Simple tooth extraction: $150 to $300 per tooth
- Surgical extraction (impacted or complex): $250 to $600 per tooth
- Wisdom tooth removal: $225 to $700 per tooth depending on impaction level
- Dental implant (post and crown): $3,000 to $5,500 per tooth
- Bone graft (socket preservation): $300 to $800 per site
- Sinus lift: $1,500 to $3,000 depending on extent
- Frenectomy: $250 to $600 depending on technique (laser vs. scalpel)
- Apicoectomy: $900 to $1,500 per tooth
Most dental insurance plans cover extractions and some surgical procedures at 50 to 80 percent after the deductible. Implants are generally not covered. We accept Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife, Guardian, and most major PPO plans. We also offer CareCredit financing for patients managing costs out of pocket.
We provide a full itemized cost estimate at your consultation so there are no surprises.
Why Choose Us for Oral Surgery in Richmond, TX?
Dr. Ginger Unegbu, DDS, is a Richmond, TX native with specialized training in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, and extensive experience performing a broad range of oral surgery procedures in Richmond, TX. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the International Dental Implant Association, Dr. Unegbu brings current clinical training to every surgical case.
- All procedures performed in-house. No specialist referrals for most oral surgery cases
- Multiple sedation options to keep you comfortable throughout
- Same-day emergency consultations for urgent extractions and dental pain
- Accepts most major PPO insurance plans and offers CareCredit financing
- Serving Richmond, Sugar Land, Rosenberg, Missouri City, Katy, and Fort Bend County
- Monday through Saturday appointments available
Let’s Get Your Smile Back on Track
Book Your Oral Surgery Consultation in Richmond, TX
Whether you have been told you need a tooth pulled, your wisdom teeth are causing pain, or you are ready to start the dental implant process, the first step is a consultation with Dr. Ginger Unegbu at My Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX.
We are at 10310 W Grand Pkwy S Suite 202, Richmond, TX 77406. Call (346) 843-8743 or book online. Same-day appointments are available for urgent cases. New patients are welcome.
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Frequently Asked Questions About - Oral Surgery
What are the most common reasons for dental surgery?
The most common reasons for dental surgery include: tooth extraction when a tooth is too damaged to save, wisdom tooth removal for impacted or problematic third molars, dental implant placement to replace missing teeth, bone grafting to prepare the jaw for implants, and apicoectomy to treat persistent infections after a failed root canal. Frenectomies for tongue tie and sinus lifts for implant preparation in the upper jaw are also common at our Richmond, TX practice.
What is the recovery process for dental surgery?
Recovery from dental surgery depends on the procedure. Most simple extractions heal within two to seven days for soft tissue, with full bone healing taking several months. Wisdom tooth removal typically involves three to seven days of swelling with most patients back to normal activity within a week. Dental implant recovery involves two to four months of osseointegration before the final crown is placed. All procedures come with specific post-operative instructions from Dr. Unegbu covering pain management, diet, activity restrictions, and oral hygiene during healing.
What is the medical term for dental surgery?
The medical term for dental surgery depends on the type of procedure. The broad specialty is called oral and maxillofacial surgery. Tooth and bone procedures are classified as dento-alveolar surgery. Gum tissue procedures fall under periodontal surgery. Root-related procedures like apicoectomy are classified under endodontic surgery. In everyday clinical use, the term ‘oral surgery’ covers all of these categories.
Is oral surgery painful?
No. All oral surgery procedures at My Glow Up Dentistry are performed under local anesthetic so you feel no pain during the procedure. The area is completely numb. After the anesthetic wears off, some discomfort is normal and is managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Most patients describe post-operative pain as manageable and note that it peaks around day two and improves steadily from day three onward. Sedation options are also available for patients with dental anxiety.
How long does an oral surgery procedure take?
Simple extractions typically take 20 to 40 minutes including anesthetic. Surgical extractions and wisdom tooth removal take 45 to 90 minutes depending on the case. Implant placement takes 60 to 120 minutes per implant. Bone grafting and sinus lifts are often combined with extractions and add 30 to 60 minutes. We schedule enough time for every case so there is never a rush, and we walk you through exactly what to expect before we begin.
Do I need a referral for oral surgery?
No. You can book a consultation directly with My Glow Up Dentistry for oral surgery in Richmond, TX without a referral. If you have existing dental records or X-rays from another provider, bringing them helps. For patients referred to us by another dentist in the area, we work closely with referring practices to ensure continuity of care.
How soon can I eat after oral surgery?
You should stick to soft, cold, or room-temperature foods for the first 24 hours after oral surgery: yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, ice cream, and broth. Avoid hot foods, hard foods, and anything that requires chewing on the surgical side. By day three to five most patients can eat soft cooked foods. Dr. Unegbu provides specific dietary guidelines based on the type of surgery performed.
Will I need someone to drive me home?
If you receive local anesthetic only, you can drive yourself home. If you choose nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you may be able to drive after a short recovery period, but we recommend having a driver just in case. If you receive oral sedation or IV sedation, you must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for the remainder of the day. Sedation affects your judgment and reaction time even after you feel awake.
Does insurance cover oral surgery?
Most PPO dental insurance plans cover basic oral surgery procedures like extractions and wisdom tooth removal at 50 to 80 percent after the deductible. Dental implants are generally not covered under most plans. Bone grafting and sinus lifts may receive partial coverage when documented as medically necessary. We verify your benefits before your consultation and provide a full cost breakdown. My Glow Up Dentistry accepts Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife, Guardian, BCBS Texas, and most major PPO plans.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the bone underneath. It causes sharp, radiating pain usually starting two to four days after extraction. To avoid it: do not use a straw, do not smoke, do not spit forcefully, and avoid rinsing aggressively for the first 24 hours. If you develop dry socket, call us immediately. Dr. Unegbu will place a medicated dressing in the site that provides fast relief.