You don't have to choose between compassion and technical skill.

A

ny type of surgery is daunting, but because our smiles are how we interact with the world around us, oral and maxillofacial surgery can be particularly stressful. For these emotionally and technically complex procedures, it is best to choose a practice with a unique blend of experience and compassionate care.

Elizabeth Wakim DDS is the #1 dentist in Washington, PA. She ensures that she can offer the best oral and maxillofacial surgery services possible by studying the latest surgical techniques and technological advances.

FAQ

FAQ
shiny tooth

Does everybody need to have their wisdom teeth removed?

There are few dental procedures (outside of routine checkups and regular cleanings!) that are necessary for everyone, but for the overwhelming majority of patients, wisdom teeth extraction is the best route. Wisdom teeth erupt when the mouth is already full of teeth, which can cause problems such as pain, infection, damage, and crowding. Wisdom teeth can also be difficult to clean and care for properly because they emerge so far back in the jaw, which may lead to decay or infection down the road.

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How are wisdom teeth extracted?

The procedure of wisdom tooth extraction depends on a variety of factors. For patients whose wisdom teeth can be accessed easily, extraction simply involves numbing the area and using special dental tools to grip and remove the tooth, similar to any other tooth extraction. However, wisdom teeth are often crooked, impacted, or broken, which requires special attention. In these situations, the oral surgeon makes a small incision in the gum to extract the wisdom tooth and closes the incision with sutures.

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When should missing teeth be replaced with dental implants?

When a tooth is missing or otherwise extracted, dental implants can be an excellent option for restoring the area as it helps you maintain a healthy maxillofacial bone structure. Patients with several missing or extracted teeth may require only a few dental implants, which can then be connected by a dental bridge or dentures. Your dentist can help you determine the best restoration option for your specific situation.

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What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift is a procedure commonly recommended for patients preparing to have dental implants placed. During the sinus lift, a bone graft-- taken either from the patient's own body or from a tissue bank-- is used to augment the upper jaw bone. Doing this ensures that the upper jaw can support the implants and that there is enough room between the upper jaw and the sinus to accommodate the implant post.

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Is oral and maxillofacial surgery painful?

Elizabeth Wakim DDS believes that part of providing excellent dental care is giving patients the most comfortable experience possible. We use the latest pain management techniques to eliminate as much discomfort as we can. Following oral and maxillofacial surgery, patients are given detailed post-operative care instructions to help them effectively manage their recovery. Recommended aftercare for surgical procedures includes the use of ice and medication to manage swelling, as well as proper hygiene in order to minimize the risk of infection.

Never did I think that having a wisdom tooth pulled could be so much fun!
kasey rothermund
Pittsburgh, PA
fun wisdom teeth pulling
passion & precision

Learn Why We're The Top Rated Dentist in the Washington, PA

"Literally the best dentist in the area! The staff is wonderful and Dr. Wakim's entire practice is state of the art with cutting edge technology. The experience is always 5 star and my teeth have never been cleaner or whiter! Thank you for such a positive dental experience."

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What Our Patients Say ...

Testimonials

Best. Dentist. Ever!

State of the art office with a highly educated professional team. Everyone is so understanding and takes the time to make you comfortable. This is the office for you if you're not a fan of the dentist, you'll quickly forget that you're at a doctors office! It's so fun and relaxing! Highly recommend!

ashlee friedman

Wow. No Pain.

As an older patient and have had other dentists for years. Dr. Wakim and her staff have exceeded any experience I've had previously. Very supportive of the care and treatment that I'm in need of, with no pressure. I also have several family members who are her patients. Todays experience surprised me, I was to have a crown replacement and was accommodated with 2 other procedures, wow.

elizabeth scarborough

Glad I came

For someone who anxiety about dental work, this has been an amazing place for me. I had considered sedation dentistry, but I’m glad I came here instead. Dr. Wakim and the whole staff are so great!

heather martin

Comfortable Atmosphere

Dr. Liza is an exceptional dentist! She has repaired my front tooth and it is as good as the original! I love the comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff. Can't wait to go back to the dentist!

adam levitsky

Pain-free vacation

Dr. Wakim and her staff are fantastic!!! I had a tooth issue right before I was to leave on vacation and was beyond miserable. Dr. Wakim took care of me last minute on a holiday weekend and I was able to enjoy my vacation pain free. I am so grateful to have such a wonderful Dentist that cares about her patients. Thank you Dr. Wakim!!

wendy horne

All the latest equipment

Great dentist ! Very friendly and helpful staff ! All the latest equipment. Your choice of music. I've had extensive dental work done including, bridges, implants and crowns. They caught the beginnings of gingivitis today and treated it. I'm 100% satisfied !

judy hollick