A dentist will perform an oral cancer screening to check for indications of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. The objective of oral cancer screening is to detect mouth cancer early at a stage where there is a higher chance for a cure.

A majority of dentists perform an exam of the mouth during a routine dental visit to check for oral cancer. Some dentists may also undertake further tests to help in the identification of areas of abnormal cells in the mouth.

Medical organizations dissent on whether healthy individuals without risk factors for mouth cancer require cancer screening. No particular oral exam or oral cancer screening test is proven to reduce the risk of succumbing to oral cancer.

But the patient and their dentist may decide that an oral examination or a special test is appropriate based on the patient’s risk factors. McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides oral cancer screening to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

Why is Oral Cancer Screening Done?

The objective of oral cancer screening is to diagnose mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may cause mouth cancer at an initial stage. In the early stages, cancer or lesions are the easiest to remove and cure.

However, no studies indicate that oral cancer screening saves lives. Therefore, not all medical organizations concur on the advantages of an oral examination for oral cancer screening. Some organizations recommend screening while others do not.

Oral cancer screening may be more beneficial for individuals with a high risk of oral cancer.

 

What You Can Expect

At the time of an oral cancer screening examination, the dentist checks the inside of the mouth for red or white patches or mouth sires. The dentist will use gloved hands to feel the tissues in the patient’s mouth to check for lumps or other aberrations.

In case the patient wears removable complete or partial dentures, the dentist or doctor will ask them to remove these so that the tissues beneath can be assessed.  

 

Additional Tests for Oral Cancer Screening

Certain dentists use special tests along with an oral examination to screen for oral cancer. There is no clarity on whether these tests provide any additional advantages over the oral examination. Special oral cancer screening exams may encompass the following:

• Rinsing the mouth with a special blue dye prior to an examination. The abnormal cells in the mouth may take up the dye and turn blue.
• Shining a light within the mouth during an examination. The light enables normal tissue to appear dark while abnormal tissue appears white.

 

Outcomes

In case the dentist detects any indications of mouth cancer or precancerous lesions, they may recommend:

• A follow-up consultation in a few weeks to check if the abnormal region is still present and note if it has changed or grown over time.
• A biopsy to attain a sample of cells for lab testing to evaluate if cancer cells are present. The dentist may perform the biopsy or refer the patient to a doctor who specializes in oral cancer detection and treatment.

Additional tests could be an outcome of oral cancer screening.

In case the dentist detects an unusual sore, the patient may undergo further testing to determine the cause. Oral cancer can only be definitely determined only by removing abnormal cells and testing them for cancer in a procedure known as a biopsy.

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral cancer screening.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Dental implant surgery is instrumental in replacing tooth roots with metal, screw-like post as well as restoring damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that appear and function much like real ones.

This procedure can offer an effective alternative to dentures or ill-fitting bridgework.

The type of implant and the condition of the jawbone will determine how dental implant surgery is performed. Dental implant surgery may encompass several procedures.

The primary benefit of implants is that they offer solid support to the new teeth. This process necessitates the bone to heal firmly around the implant. As this healing takes time, the entire process can take several months.

McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Why is dental surgery done?

Dental implants are placed surgically on the jawbone. Here they serve as the roots of the missing teeth. As the titanium in the implants fuses with the jawbone the implants will not slip, make noise, or lead to bone damage in the manner that dentures or fixed bridgework might.

In addition, the materials cannot decay in the way that real teeth that support regular bridgework can.

 

Procedure

Dental implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure undertaken in stages:

1. The damaged tooth is taken out.
2. The jawbone is prepped for surgery, and this process may involve bone grafting.
3. Once the jawbone heals, the oral surgeon places the dental implant metal post in the jawbone.
4. The patient undergoes the healing period which may take several months.
5. The oral surgeon will place the abutment, which is an extension of the implant metal post. Sometimes when the implant is stable, this can be undertaken at the time of implant placement.
6. Once the soft tissue heals, the dentist will make a mold of the patient’s teeth and jawbone and subsequently place the final teeth or tooth.
7. The complete process can take several months from start to finish. A large part of this duration is devoted to healing as well as waiting for the growth of new bone in the jaw.

 

Placing the Dental Implant

The oral surgeon will make an incision to open the gum and expose the bone during surgery to place the dental implant. They will drill holes into the bone where they will place the dental implant metal post. As the post will serve as the tooth root, it is implanted deep into the bone.

At this juncture, the patient will still have a gap where the tooth is missing. The surgeon may place a partial, temporary denture for appearance, if necessary. The patient can take this denture out for cleaning and when they sleep.

 

Waiting for Bone Growth

After placing the metal implant post in the jawbone, osseointegration (os-e-o-in-tuh-GRAY-shun) initiates. In this process, the jawbone grows into and fuses with the surface of the dental implant. This process can take several months and helps offer a solid base for the new artificial tooth in the same manner as roots do for natural teeth.

 

Placing the Abutment

The patient may need additional surgery to place the abutment when osseointegration is complete. The abutment is the piece where the crown will eventually attach. This is a minor surgical procedure which is usually undertaken with the patient under local anesthesia and on an outpatient basis.

 

Choosing New Artificial Teeth

Following abutment, the gums must heal for one to two weeks before the artificial tooth can be attached.

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Wisdom tooth extraction refers to a surgical procedure to excise one or more wisdom tooth. These are the four permanent adult teeth located at the back corners of the mouth on the top and bottom.

Dr. Landon D. McLain of McLain Surgical Arts provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

When is Wisdom Tooth Surgery Required?

It will become necessary to have a wisdom tooth pulled out if it does not have room to grow (impacted wisdom tooth) which may be causing infection, pain, or other dental issues. A dentist or an oral surgeon can perform a wisdom tooth extraction.

Even if impacted teeth are not presently causing problems, some dentists and oral surgeons recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent any potential issues in the future.

Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last permanent teeth to emerge (erupt) in the mouth. These teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25 years. While some individuals never develop wisdom teeth, these teeth erupt in others normally and do not cause any problems.

Many individuals develop impacted wisdom teeth or teeth that do not have sufficient room to erupt in the mouth or develop in a normal manner. Impacted wisdom teeth may emerge partially or not at all.

An impacted wisdom tooth may present the following:

• Develop at an angle toward the next tooth (the second molar)
• Develop at an angle toward the back of the mouth
• Develop at a right angle to the other teeth appearing as if the wisdom tooth is “lying down” within the jawbone
• Develop straight up or down similar to other teeth but remain trapped within the jawbone

 

Issues with Impacted Wisdom Teeth

A person will likely need to have their impacted wisdom tooth pulled if it causes issues such as:

• Pain
• Infection or gum disease (periodontal disease)
• Trapping debris and food behind the wisdom tooth
• Tooth decay in a wisdom tooth that is partially erupted
• Damage to a neighboring tooth or surrounding bone
• Development of a cyst (fluid-filled sac) around the wisdom tooth
• Problems with orthodontic treatments to straighten other teeth

 

Surgery Procedure

The oral surgeon or dentist may use sedation or anesthesia, depending on the anticipated complexity of the wisdom tooth extraction as well as the patient’s comfort level.

The wisdom tooth extraction procedure is as follows:

• Places an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone
• Eliminates the bone that obstructs access to the tooth root
• Divides the tooth into sections if it is easier to eliminate in fragments
• Removes tooth
• Cleans the area of the removed tooth of any debris from the bone or tooth
• Sutures the wound close to encourage healing, but this is not always necessary
• Applies gauze to the extraction area to manage bleeding and help a blood clot develop

 

Post-Operative Healing

The patient should follow the dentist’s instructions on the following as they heal:

Bleeding

The patient may experience some oozing of blood on the first day after the wisdom tooth extraction. They should avoid excessive spitting so as not to dislodge the blood clot from the socket. The patient should replace the gauze over the extraction site as instructed by their dentist or oral surgeon.

Pain Management

The patient may be able to manage pain with OTC pain medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), or a prescription drug from their dentist or oral surgeon.

Prescription pain drugs may be particularly useful if the bone has been excised during the procedure. To relieve pain, the patient can also hold a cold pack against their jaw.  

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

The treatment of various conditions may involve oral surgery. Your surgeon will share some insights to help you make a suitable decision and help you prepare mentally and physically for the oral surgery.

Dr. Landon D. McLain of McLain Surgical Arts provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Types of Oral Surgery

Some of the most common types of oral surgeries and what patients can expect when they visit the surgeon’s office for the procedure are as follows:

 

The Impact on Wisdom Teeth

The last teeth to develop are these third molars, also known as wisdom teeth. For many people, these teeth may grow without causing the patient any problems.

However, these teeth either do not completely erupt or are not properly aligned. This happens all too often. This may lead these teeth to become squeezed between the jawbone and the gums. This condition will also impact the health of the surrounding teeth.

 

Dental Implants

The surgeon will implant a metal post into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Over time, this implant will fuse into the gum tissue and bone. This forms a robust foundation to hold a realistic-looking artificial tooth, or crown. Dental implants are a suitable option for people with tooth loss who are seeking a sustainable treatment option.

 

Biopsies

If the patient has a lesion in their mouth that appears suspect, they will need a biopsy to check for oral cancer. The surgeon will excise a tiny piece of tissue and send it to the lab for evaluation.

 

Jaw Surgery

If a person’s jaws are misaligned, it can lead to issues not only with appearance but functional problems as well. The patient will usually require surgery to address this issue and restore function to the jaws.

 

Sleep Apnea

In case conservative therapies do not help patients with serious sleep apnea, the oral surgeon can eliminate excess tissue from the back of the throat to improve the patient’s sleeping situation significantly.

 

Reconstructive Surgery

Facial injuries and missing teeth can make it challenging to perform even normal functions such as eating. These surgical procedures replace knocked-out of damaged teeth, address jawbone and gum damage, and treat jaw joint problems.

 

Pre-Procedure

Prior to the surgery, the oral surgeon will provide the patient with a detailed treatment plan. They will also explain the anesthesia options to them and encourage them to ask any questions that they may have about their surgery. A majority of surgeries are done under general anesthesia to make sure that the patient remains comfortable during the procedure.

 

Post-Procedure

There will be a recovery period with oral surgery, similar to any surgical procedure. If the patient is under general anesthesia, they will not be able to drive themselves home after the procedure.

In these types of cases, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them back home as they will feel tired and groggy. The surgeon may prescribe painkillers to manage the pain associated with the recovery. They will also provide a comprehensive do’s and don’ts for after the procedure.

 

Summing Up

There are many conditions in which the treatment involves oral surgery. While no one relishes undergoing surgery, sometimes it is the only way to ensure optimal oral health.

The patient will receive a comprehensive treatment plan before their oral surgery. The dentist will explain the anesthesia options to make sure that the patient feels little or no discomfort during the surgery.

The patient will have to undergo the recovery period after the surgery. Many of these surgical procedures warrant the use of painkillers after the surgery to reduce recovery-related pain. Therefore, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after their oral surgery.

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious, and at times, life-threatening condition. Undiagnosed OSA presents various risks such as stroke, heart attack, irregular heartbeat, heart disease, high blood pressure, and reduced libido.

Moreover, OSA can lead to drowsiness in the daytime which can result in productivity loss, accidents, and relationship issues.  

According to estimates by the National Sleep Foundation, around 18 million adults have OSA. This condition also likely affects around 2 to 3 percent of children. Despite these staggering numbers, people with OSA may not realize that they have a problem.

If a person receives feedback from someone close to them that they snore loudly or wake up abruptly, gasping for air, they should consult an experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS).

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides treatments to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

What is OSA?

The upper airway can be blocked during sleep due to excess tissue, large tonsils, and/or a large tongue. The airway muscles (which relax and contract during sleep), nasal airways, and position of the jaw may also further aggravate the condition.

Breathing cessation, or “apnea,” occurs when these factors trigger impulses in the brain to wake the individual just enough to restart the process of breathing. Sleep apnea is often defined as the presence of over 30 apneas during the course of a seven-hour sleep.

Patients with severe apnea may experience periods of not breathing for as long as 60 to 90 seconds, and these may recur up to 500 times a night.

 

Treatments

The OMS will recommend the most appropriate treatment for the patient depending on whether their OSA is mild, moderate or severe. Treatments range from behaviour modification to oral appliances to air pressure instruments.

While surgery may be an effective solution for some patients, it is vital to remember that no surgical treatment is universally successful. The nose and throat structure of every patient is different.

Therefore, the OMS will measure the airway at various points to check for any irregular air flow from the nose to lungs before recommending surgery.

An OMS has substantial experience and extensive training and skill to undertake the below mentioned surgical procedures:

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

This surgery involves shortening and stiffening the soft palate by partially eliminating the uvula and reducing the soft palate’s edge.

Hyoid Suspension

The hyoid bone lies above the level of the thyroid cartilage (Adam’s apple). Hyoid Suspension involves securing the hyoid bone to the thyroid cartilage to stabilize this part of the airway.

Genioglossus Advancement (GGA)

GGA involves tightening the front portion of the tongue tendon to reduce the degree of tongue displacement into the throat. In general, this procedure is undertaken with at least one other surgical procedure such as hyoid suspension or UPPP.

Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)

In this procedure, the OMS surgically moves the upper and lower jaws forward along with the soft tissues of the palate and tongue, opening the upper airway. The MMA may be the only viable technique for some patients to develop the necessary air passageway successfully.

Anti-Snoring Devices

Various oral and nasal anti-snoring devices are available in the market today to help prevent patients from snoring. The treatment provider can recommend the most suitable devices for the patient depending on their condition. Devices such as nasal dilators, chin strips, nasal strips, and vestibular shields can help prevent snoring.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) refers to a small joint which is located in the front of the ear where the skull meets the lower jaw. It provides the lower jaw with the ability to move and function.

The occurrence of TMJ disorders is not uncommon. People with such disorders may experience various symptoms, including headaches, earaches, and challenges in opening their mouth.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides treatments to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.  

 

Diagnosis

The patient should consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) when symptoms of TMJ related problems surface. An OMS specializes in areas of the teeth, mouth, and jaws allowing them to diagnose the issue accurately.

The diagnosis of TMJ disorders can be challenging and may warrant various diagnostic procedures. The OMS may order special imaging tests of the joint as well as refer the patient to other dental or medical specialist or a physical therapist.

Sometimes TMJ arthroscopy is used to diagnose a TMJ condition. In this procedure, the doctor inserts a narrow tube (cannula) into the joint space. After that they insert a tiny camera, known as an arthroscope, to view the area and diagnose the condition.

 

Treatment

The treatment of TMJ disorders may range from conservative medical and dental care to complex surgery. The treatment may include short-term non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief and muscle relaxation, splint or bite plate therapy, or stress management consulting.

If nonsurgical treatment is ineffective, or there is extensive joint damage, the patient may have to undergo surgery. The surgical procedure may be arthroscopic or involve a direct surgical approach to repair damaged tissue.

After the correct diagnosis of the TMJ disorder, the OMS can recommend the most suitable treatment to address the problem.

 

Surgical or Other Procedures

In case other methods are ineffective the doctor may recommend the following procedures:

Arthrocentesis

This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting tiny needles within the joint to irrigate fluid through the joint in order to flush out debris and inflammatory byproducts.

Injections

Injecting corticosteroid into the joint may be helpful for some patients. At times, botulinum toxin type A (Botox, others) injections in the jaw muscles may offer relief from pain associated with TMJ disorders.

TMJ Arthroscopy

Sometimes arthroscopic surgery can be as effective in treating different types of TMJ disorders as conventional open-joint surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon inserts a narrow tube (cannula) within the joint space.

After this, they insert an arthroscope and tiny surgical instruments for the procedure. In comparison to open-joint surgery, TMJ arthroscopy has fewer risks and complications. However, it also involves certain limitations.

Modified Condylotomy

Modified condylotomy treats TMJ disorders indirectly. This procedure involves surgery on the mandible rather than the joint itself. This may be a suitable treatment option for patients experiencing pain and locking.

Open-Joint Surgery

If more conservative approaches are unable to relieve the jaw pain and it appears to occur due to a structural issue within the joint, the doctor or dentist may recommend arthrotomy (open-joint surgery) to restore or replace the joint.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) specializes in diagnosing and surgically treating cancer of the neck, head, and mouth.

According to estimates by the Oral Cancer Foundation, around 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year. The mortality rates of oral cancer are especially high.

This type of cancer is not hard to diagnose or detect, but it is typically discovered in its later stages of development. The family dentist or OMS is most likely to detect oral cancer at the time of routine dental exams.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides treatments to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

How to Perform an Oral Cancer Self-Exam

Everybody should perform an oral cancer self-exam on a monthly basis. Bright light and a mirror are required for an oral examination.

• Take out any dentures
• See and feel inside the lips and front of the gums
• Tilt the head back to view and feel the roof of the mouth
• Pull the cheek out to view its inside surface and the back of the gums
• Pull the tongue out and examine all of its surfaces
• Feel both sides of the neck, including under the lower jaw, for enlarged lymph nodes (glands) or lumps

Look for the following when performing a self-examination:

• Red patches (erythroplakia)
• White patches of the oral tissues (leukoplakia)
• Red and white patches (erythroleukoplakia)
• A sore that does not heal and bleeds easily
• Thickening of the mouth tissues or an abnormal lump
• Chronic hoarseness or a sore throat
• Hard to chew or swallow
• A lump or mass in the neck

The mouth represents one of the body’s primary early warning systems. Pay close attention to any suspicious sores or lumps. Upon discovering something, make a prompt appointment with the dentist or OMS. Early treatment may facilitate complete recovery.

 

How is Oral Cancer Treated?

The treatment for oral cancer varies based on the location, stage, and type of cancer at diagnosis.

 

Surgery

Early stage cancer treatment typically involves surgery to eliminate the tumor and cancerous lymph nodes. Furthermore, the surgeon may need to take out other tissue around the neck and mouth.

 

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is another treatment option for oral cancer. In this procedure, a doctor aims radiation beams at the tumor one or two times a day, five days a week, for between two to eight weeks. Advanced stage cancer treatment often involves a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

 

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of medication to eliminate cancer cells. The patient is given drugs either by mouth or through an intravenous (IV) line. While most patients receive chemotherapy on an outpatient basis, some may require a hospital stay.

 

Targeted Therapy

Another form of treatment is known as targeted therapy. This treatment can be effective in the early as well as advanced stages of cancer. The drugs used in targeted therapy will attach to certain proteins on cancer cells and inhibit their growth.

 

Nutrition

Nutrition also comprises an integral part of oral cancer treatment. Patients commonly experience difficulty or pain while eating and swallowing after many treatments. Therefore, poor appetite and weight loss are a common side effect. The patient should ensure that they discuss their diet with their doctor.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) performs corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, to correct a variety of minor and major dental and skeletal irregularities, including misaligned jaws, and teeth.

Surgery can improve activities such as breathing, chewing, and speaking. Orthognathic surgery can significantly improve the patient’s appearance, but it is primarily undertaken to address functional issues.  

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides treatments to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Who May Need Jaw Surgery?

Patients experiencing the following conditions may require corrective jaw surgery:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Problems in chewing or biting food
• Chronic jaw or jaw joint (TMJ) pain and headaches
• Excessive wear of the teeth
• An unbalanced facial appearance from the front or side
• Facial injury
• Inability to make the lips meet without straining
• Open bite (the space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed)
• Birth defects
• Receding lower chin and jaw
• A protuberant jaw
• Sleep apnea (breathing issues when sleeping, such as snoring)
• Chronic mouth breathing

To determine whether the patient is a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, their dentist, orthodontist, and OMS will work together. The OMS surgeon will determine which orthognathic surgery technique is most suitable and perform the actual procedure.

Patients must understand that their treatment, which will likely include orthodontics pre and post surgery, may take a number of years to complete. The OMS and orthodontist will try to provide a realistic estimate of the time required for the patient’s treatment with the understanding that it is a long-term commitment on the part of the patient and their family.

 

Upper jaw (Maxillary Osteotomy)

In this procedure, the OMS surgeon places incisions in the upper jaw. They then move it up, down, forward, or backward, depending on the patient’s needs, and secure it with screws and plates.

Maxillary Osteotomy can help correct the following conditions:

• Crossbite
• Open bite
• A protuberant or very receded upper jaw
• Too much or too little teeth showing
• Reduced facial growth of the midface (midfacial hypoplasia)

The surgeon will cut the bone above the teeth to enable the whole upper jaw, including the mouth’s roof and upper teeth, to move as one unit. They will move the jaw and upper teeth forward until they are correctly aligned to the lower teeth.

This procedure can be planned on a computer to establish whether additional work, such as orthodontics, will be required to address any remaining difference in the fit.

An open bite develops when extra bone grows above the molars. This causes the surface to become angled when it should be flat and even. The surgeon will correct this condition by trimming away or excising the excess bone.

After the jaw is repositioned, the surgeon will use screws and plates to hold the bone in its new placement.

 

Lower Jaw (Mandibular Osteotomy)

In this procedure, the OMS surgeon divides the lower jaw and moves the front section forward or backward and secures with screws and plates.

Lower jaw surgery can correct the following conditions:

• Protruding lower jaw
• Receding lower jaw

The surgeon places incisions behind the molars and lengthwise along the jawbone enabling the front of the jaw to move as one unit. After repositioning the jaw by moving it either forward or backward, the surgeon secures it with screws and plates to allow it to remain in position as it heals.

 

Recovery

The initial jaw healing usually requires around six weeks following surgery while complete jaw healing can take up to 12 weeks.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, is a popular procedure for patients considering body contouring through cosmetic surgery.

In this surgery, fat is suctioned from targeted body areas to create the desired body shape. Patients typically choose this procedure to achieve a sleeker, more sculpted figure.  

Liposuction is also called “body sculpting,” and is a common procedure to remove fat in the abdomen, buttocks, neck, thighs, and other body areas. While this procedure can eliminate unwanted fat effectively, can it address other body issues, such as cellulite? It is vital for patients seeking a reduction in cellulite to consider this question.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides liposuction to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

What is cellulite?

There seems to be no real cause for the development of cellulite, and it occurs regardless of the activity level or body type. This frustrating issue affects mostly women and is characterized by the unappealing dimples on the buttocks and thighs which may even be noticeable through certain clothing in severe cases.

Wearing swimsuits and short skirts may be out of the question for women who are self-conscious about their cellulite.

 

Can liposuction remove cellulite?

Cellulite is usually seen as unattractive as it creates a dimpled effect on the hips and other areas of the body. It often develops on the buttock and thigh areas in women. The reason for its development is fat deposits being pushed up on the skin causing an unsightly rippling effect.

An expert cosmetic surgeon can understand the patient’s concerns regarding their cellulite. However, liposuction is not an appropriate procedure for cellulite removal. This surgery will remove fat permanently from the body enhancing its contours. But it will not address cellulite.

It is important to understand the reasons for cellulite development before seeking its treatment. The dimpling effect of cellulite occurs when bands of connective tissue develop beneath the skin, pulling it downwards.

While excess fat can make cellulite look worse, it is not a cause for the appearance of cellulite. Therefore, liposuction on the buttock and thighs can only slightly improve the appearance of cellulite.

The thin skin on the thighs and butt can actually make the cellulite more noticeable. This symptom is more prominent in older women since they tend to have less elastic skin.

Results do offer some indication that laser and ultrasound-assisted liposuction may tighten the skin while removing fat. However, these treatments alone will not be able to eliminate cellulite.

 

How can I get rid of cellulite?

Liposuction is a fat loss procedure, and not meant for the removal of cellulite. There is no official treatment for cellulite removal, but certain things can help individuals mitigate the appearance of cellulite. Exercise may improve the dimpling effect. Weight loss can also help reduce cellulite.

Cellulite is a normal but aesthetically undesirable condition. It is quite common among women, and to some extent, most women have some level of cellulite on their bodies.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for liposuction.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Liposuction surgery is a way to attain a lean and sculpted body for individuals who are within their ideal weight range but still have stubborn fatty deposits in certain areas.

The final outcomes of liposuction will take time to establish as the procedure involves a recovery period as well as aftercare. Therefore, it is understandable for patients to be concerned about long it will take for the liposuction outcomes to become visible.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides liposuction to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Post-Operative Recovery and Results

The initial recovery period after the procedure is around one week. During this period, the patient will likely experience inflammation which will make it difficult to see any outcomes at all.

In order to minimize swelling, it is vital to wear compression garments. The patient should also start light exercise in around one week after the surgery to mitigate the risk of complications. They can resume vigorous exercise in around one month following the surgery.

It may take many months before the patient sees a noticeable change, even after the recovery phase. The individual patient and the body area that received liposuction will determine how soon the patient will notice the results. Some patients experience a difference as early as three months after the procedure while others may see the changes in six months.

In general, it may take up to one year for the final outcomes to manifest. The patient can choose to undergo revision surgery at this point if they so desire.

 

Follow the Surgeon’s Recovery Guidelines

Liposuction permanently eliminates fat pockets. However, the surgical results depend, to a large extent, on the patient. Wearing compression garments can help shape the body and mitigate inflammation. The patient will also need to follow a balanced diet and exercise regimen to prevent the remaining fat cells from getting bigger.

The patient should follow the surgeon’s aftercare guidelines and maintain a healthy lifestyle to experience the outcomes of the liposuction surgery sooner and prevent the fat from coming back.

 

How long until you can exercise?

Within a few days of their liposuction procedure, a majority of patients can resume their exercise regimen. But at the outset, patients should not exercise vigorously.

The patient should ideally start by doing around 25 percent of their regular amount of exercise. After that, they should increase their daily exercise depending on their tolerance.

 

How long will the bruising and inflammation last?

The post-op care technique used by the cosmetic surgeon typically determines the duration of the inflammation and bruising after liposuction. The level of bruising differs considerably among patients.

The tumescent technique for liposuction used along with the “open-drainage” technique (where the surgeon does not seal the incisions with sutures) reduces the amount of inflammation after the surgery. Most patients who undergo liposuction with the tumescent technique do not have bruising after one to two weeks of the procedure.

 

How long will the inflammation last?

Around 90 percent of the swelling will resolve in four weeks after the liposuction procedure with the open-drainage technique (incisions are not sealed with sutures) and the proper use of compression garments (worn for three to six days).

The inflammation will persist for longer, and around 90 percent of it will resolve after 8 to 12 weeks if the incisions are sealed with sutures (trapping the residual blood-tinged tumescent fluid underneath the skin). The patient may experience significant inflammation for many months with the ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL) technique.

Liposuction may be a suitable option for patients with stubborn fatty deposits that are unresponsive to diet and exercise. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for liposuction.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.