Oral Surgery in Aurora, CO

Oral surgery encompasses procedures that address conditions of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding oral structures through surgical methods. At Alameda Dental in Aurora, CO, the oral surgery services we offer in-office include tooth extractions—both simple and surgical—wisdom teeth removal, bone grafting, alveoloplasty, and frenectomies. These are procedures that go beyond what can be treated with a filling, crown, or non-surgical periodontal therapy.

Every treatment begins with a thorough examination and diagnostic imaging so Dr. Casandra Barnes can determine the most appropriate approach. We explain the reason for the recommendation, what the procedure involves, and what to expect during healing, so you can move forward with clarity.

Most adults and older teens are candidates for in-office oral surgery. The key factors we evaluate are your oral health status, your medical history, any current medications, and the findings from your diagnostic imaging. A tooth that is severely decayed, fractured below the gum line, or impacted are common reasons surgery becomes the recommended option. Patients with gum disease, limited jawbone volume, or a restrictive frenum may also benefit.

Certain medical conditions or complex surgical needs may lead us to coordinate care with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. During your consultation at our Aurora office, we review these factors in detail and help you understand whether in-office treatment is appropriate or whether a referral better serves you.

We perform several oral surgery procedures at our Aurora practice depending on each patient's needs.

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth that cannot be restored because of extensive decay, trauma, or advanced periodontal disease. A simple extraction is used when the tooth is fully visible; a surgical extraction is needed when the tooth is broken at the gum line or has not fully erupted.

Wisdom teeth removal addresses third molars that are impacted, angled, or causing crowding. Removing them can prevent infection, cyst formation, and damage to neighboring teeth.

Bone grafting places bone material into an extraction socket to maintain jawbone height and width. It is often recommended when a dental implant is part of the long-term plan.

Alveoloplasty reshapes and smooths the jawbone ridge after extractions. This procedure creates a more even foundation for a denture or partial appliance.

Frenectomy releases or removes a restrictive frenum—the band of connective tissue attaching the lip, cheek, or tongue to the gums—when it limits movement, contributes to gum recession, or impacts speech and eating.

Each procedure is discussed with you in advance so you understand the rationale, the steps, and the expected recovery.

Your visit starts with a conversation. We confirm that you understand the planned procedure and answer any last-minute questions. Dr. Barnes reviews your medical history and the consent form you signed at your consultation.

Once you are comfortable, the area is numbed with local anesthetic. After you are fully numb—and relaxed if sedation is used—the surgical steps begin. The technique depends on the specific procedure, but every step is explained so there are no surprises. If sutures are placed, we let you know what type they are and whether they dissolve on their own.

Before you leave, we provide written aftercare instructions, any necessary prescriptions, and gauze to control bleeding. We also schedule a follow-up visit to check healing and remove sutures if needed.

Healing follows a predictable pattern, though the timeline varies by procedure and by individual. Soreness, minor bleeding, and some swelling are common in the first day or two. We recommend applying ice packs to the outside of the face in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 to 48 hours to help manage swelling. Keeping your head elevated while resting also helps.

A soft-food diet is important during the initial healing phase. Cool foods like yogurt, smooth soups, and applesauce are gentle on the surgical site. Avoid using straws, spitting forcefully, and smoking—these actions create suction and pressure that can dislodge the protective blood clot, leading to a dry socket.

Pain management is typically handled with over-the-counter medication, and we may prescribe something stronger for more extensive procedures. We may also prescribe an antibiotic if your situation calls for it.

Call our office at (303) 343-7072 if you notice pain that intensifies after the first couple of days, swelling that worsens after 48 hours, uncontrolled bleeding, fever, or a persistent bad taste. Prompt attention to these signs allows us to address any complication early.

The primary benefit of oral surgery is resolving a condition that cannot be addressed through less invasive means. Removing a non-restorable or infected tooth eliminates a source of pain and prevents the spread of infection. Extracting impacted wisdom teeth can protect adjacent molars and reduce the risk of cysts. Bone grafting after an extraction preserves the natural shape of the jaw, which supports future restorative options. Alveoloplasty creates a stable, comfortable ridge for a denture. A frenectomy can improve lip, cheek, or tongue mobility.

These outcomes are not automatic. They depend on an accurate diagnosis, careful surgical technique, and consistent aftercare. We explain what benefits are realistic for your specific situation and what limitations exist.

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of safe oral surgery. These detailed images help us plan the procedure with precision and reduce the chance of surprises.

While imaging technology provides critical information, clinical judgment remains the core of treatment planning. Dr. Barnes interprets these images in the context of your overall oral health and explains what the findings mean for your treatment.

The cost of oral surgery depends on the specific procedure, the complexity involved, the type of anesthesia or sedation, and whether steps like bone grafting are included. Because every case is different, we provide a written treatment estimate after your examination and before any procedure begins.

Alameda Dental accepts most major insurance plans, and we verify your benefits in advance. We explain what your plan covers, any limitations or exclusions, and your estimated out-of-pocket responsibility. Call (303) 343-7072 to learn more or to schedule a consultation for a personalized estimate.

If you have a tooth that is causing persistent pain, wisdom teeth that feel tight or tender, or you have been told you need an extraction or surgical procedure, the first step is a consultation. During this visit, Dr. Barnes reviews your dental and medical history, performs a clinical examination, and takes the imaging needed to develop a clear picture of what is happening. We discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and present your options along with the expected timeline and costs.

Our office is located at 14591 E Alameda Ave, Aurora, CO 80012, and we serve patients from Aurora and the surrounding communities. Call (303) 343-7072 to schedule. Same-week appointments are often available for urgent concerns, and we welcome new patients.