At Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson helps patients reclaim restful sleep through advanced, personalized care. A board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, he ensures everyone receives safe and effective treatment.

How Jaw Surgery Helps with Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when soft tissues in the throat collapse and block the airway during sleep. Jaw surgery expands the airway by physically moving the jaws forward. This:

• Reduces airway obstruction
• Improves airflow during sleep
• Lowers apnea-hypopnea index (AHI)
• Can reduce or eliminate the need for CPAP

For patients with severe sleep apnea who haven’t responded to non-surgical treatments, MMA is one of the most effective long-term options.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for jaw surgery if:

• You have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.
• CPAP therapy and oral appliances haven’t worked or aren’t tolerated.
• Imaging reveals a small or recessed jaw, which contributes to your condition.
• Your sleep specialist or ENT recommends surgical intervention.

At OFSIH, we conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure that jaw surgery is the right fit for you. Our team considers your medical history, sleep study results, airway imaging, and personal treatment goals.

What to Expect After Jaw Surgery

For many people with sleep apnea, jaw surgery offers a long-term or even permanent solution. By enlarging the airway structure itself, MMA addresses the source of the obstruction.

Studies, including a meta-analysis published by JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, show significant reductions in AHI after surgery, with sustained results over time. While individual outcomes vary, most patients experience lasting relief and an improvement in sleep quality.

Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation in Houston

Don’t let sleep apnea continue to impact your health and quality of life. Contact Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston today to learn if jaw surgery is right for you. Get in touch with us at 281-491-4545 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson. Better sleep starts here.

The post The Role of Jaw Surgery in Managing Severe Sleep Apnea appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, understands the importance of having a clear timeline for your treatment. This blog offers additional context to help you plan effectively and feel confident about your care.

How Long Do Most Patients Wait?

Generally speaking, most patients need to wait 4 to 9 months after a sinus lift before dental implants can be placed. This healing period allows new bone to develop in the upper jaw and gives your implants a strong, stable foundation. Without sufficient healing time, the success of your treatment could be compromised.

Why the Healing Time Matters

After a sinus lift, bone graft material is placed in your upper jaw near the molars or premolars. Over time, your body integrates this material and turns it into real bone. That’s what gives the dental implant a solid structure to anchor to. Adequate healing time ensures:

• Proper bone integration
• Reduced risk of treatment failure
• Long-term stability for your dental restoration

What Affects Your Healing Time?

Healing time isn’t the same for everyone. Here are a few factors that can influence how long you’ll need to wait:

• Type of graft material used
• Amount of bone added
• Your overall health and habits (e.g., smoking can slow healing)
• Age and bone density
• How well you follow post-operative instructions

Can the Timeline Be Shorter?

In rare cases, if your surgeon determines that your bone is stable enough, implants may be placed sooner. Sometimes, they’re even placed during the same procedure. However, this depends entirely on your unique anatomy and the type of sinus lift performed.

Schedule a Sinus Lift Consultation Today

If you’re considering dental implants but need a sinus lift first, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston at 281-491-4545 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Johnson.

The post How Long Do You Have to Wait After a Sinus Lift for Implants? appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

The 

At Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH), Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and his expert team work hard to ensure a comfortable recovery. This includes thorough patient education to prevent complications.

If you’re gearing up for wisdom teeth removal, understanding how to protect your gums can make all the difference. 

What Is Dry Socket?

After wisdom teeth removal, a protective blood clot should form at the extraction site. If this clot shifts or fails to form, the bone and nerves will be exposed, causing significant pain and delaying recovery.

When dry socket develops, it typically happens a few days after surgery. It’s also more common with lower wisdom teeth extractions.

Top Tips to Prevent Dry Socket

To reduce your risk of dry socket, keep these essential aftercare tips in mind:

• Follow instructions: Dr. Johnson will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions. Follow them as closely as possible.
• Avoid straws: Suction can displace the blood clot. Stick to sipping beverages straight from a cup.
• Don’t smoke: Smoking impairs healing and increases dry socket risk. Steer clear of all tobacco products for at least 72 hours.
• Eat soft foods: Stick to yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and similar foods for the first few days.
• Keep the area clean: Rinse gently with salt water starting 24 hours after surgery. Avoid vigorous swishing.
• Skip the spit: Spitting can also dislodge the clot. Let fluids naturally fall from your mouth instead.

What to Do If You Suspect Dry Socket

If you experience severe pain, bad breath, or a visible empty socket, contact Dr. Johnson immediately. Dry socket is treatable, but quick care is essential. Unaddressed, it can lead to prolonged discomfort, infection, and delayed healing of the extraction site.

Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Removal in Houston, TX

Do you have questions or need to schedule your procedure? Reach out to the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston to learn more about wisdom teeth removal and recovery.

Call 281-491-4545 or visit our office to meet with Dr. Johnson and our compassionate team. Your safety and long-term oral health are always our top priorities.

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Have you noticed sagging in your cheeks or lips after losing your teeth? For many people, missing teeth cause more than just problems with chewing and speech. They also lead to visible changes in facial structure.

If you’re self-conscious about shifts in your appearance, All-on-4 implants could be an effective solution.

At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH), board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. L.T. Johnson and his skilled team use this technique to help patients across Houston, Sugar Land, and Katy regain function and facial harmony. Find out more about All-on-4 below.

What Causes Facial Changes After Tooth Loss?

When teeth are missing, the jawbone no longer receives the stimulation it needs to maintain volume. Over time, this leads to bone resorption, where cells break down bone tissue and release minerals like calcium and phosphate into the bloodstream.

Prolonged bone resorption can result in:

• Sunken cheeks
• Wrinkling around the mouth
• A collapsed or shortened lower face
• Sagging lips or a downturned mouth

These effects may make a person seem older or more tired than they feel.

How All-on-4 Supports Your Facial Structure

All-on-4 dental implants use four strategically placed titanium posts to anchor a full arch of prosthetic teeth. Unlike dentures that sit on top of the gums, these implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots.

Here’s how the All-on-4 approach can restore your facial appearance:

• It preserves jawbone density to prevent further bone loss.
• It restores vertical height to the lower face.
• It supports cheeks and lips for a fuller look.
• It improves profile and symmetry by maintaining proper alignment.

Patients often report looking more youthful and refreshed after the procedure, thanks to the reinforcement these implants provide.

Reclaim Your Smile – and Your Confidence

All-on-4 dental implants replace missing teeth and help restore the natural shape and structure of your face. If you’ve noticed facial changes due to tooth loss, this treatment may be a long-term solution worth exploring.

Ready to learn more? Schedule a visit with the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston to find out if All-on-4 implants are right for you. Call us at 281-491-4545 or send a message.

The post Can All-on-4 Dental Implants Improve My Facial Appearance? appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

Many people think a jaw injury is only serious if it causes obvious disfigurement or intense pain. In reality, some jaw fractures can be subtle – so subtle that the patient delays care and experiences complications.

This blog clears up confusion by breaking down the types of jaw fractures and how they’re treated. You’ll learn what symptoms to watch for and when to see a specialist.

At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH), Dr. L.T. Johnson and his expert team address jaw fractures with careful diagnosis and advanced techniques. Their reputation is based on precision, safety, and personalized facial trauma treatment.

Types of Jaw Fractures

There are several ways the jaw can break, and the location of the fracture usually determines how it’s managed.

Mandibular Fracture (Lower Jaw)

This is the most common jaw fracture. It can occur in one or multiple parts of the lower jaw and often results from direct trauma to the face.

Symptoms include swelling, bruising under the tongue, pain when chewing, or a misaligned bite. Treatment generally involves stabilizing the fracture with plates and screws, and in some cases, wiring the jaw.

Maxillary Fracture (Upper Jaw)

These fractures are less common but more complex. This is due to the upper jaw’s proximity to the eye sockets and nasal bones. Maxillary fractures are frequently caused by high-impact accidents.

Patients may experience facial swelling, nosebleeds, vision problems, and difficulty breathing through the nose. They typically require surgical intervention to realign the bones.

Condylar Fracture

A condylar fracture affects the rounded end of the jawbone near the ear. It may result in trouble opening the mouth, jaw misalignment, or clicking sounds.

Treatments range from conservative methods like rest and a soft diet to surgical repair.

Alveolar Fracture

This fracture damages the part of the jawbone that holds the teeth. It’s often linked to dental trauma and may lead to loose or missing teeth.

Correcting an alveolar fracture typically involves repositioning the teeth and bone. This is followed by splinting or surgical stabilization to promote proper healing.

Trust OFSIH with Your Care

If you suspect any of the jaw fractures mentioned above, don’t wait. Early diagnosis helps to prevent long-term complications and increases overall well-being.

The Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston proudly serves patients with compassionate, expert care. Call 281-491-4545 to schedule an appointment today.

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Most people experience a mouth sore at some point – maybe after biting the inside of their cheek or eating something too hot. However, when a sore doesn’t heal, looks unusual, or causes persistent pain, it’s natural to wonder: Could this be 

This blog breaks down the key distinctions between common mouth sores and early signs of oral cancer. If you’re located in Houston, Sugar Land, or Katy, Texas, the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH) offers advanced diagnostic and surgical care for oral cancer, led by the skilled Dr. L.T. Johnson and his expert team.

Common Mouth Sores: What’s Typically Harmless

Most mouth sores are not cancerous. Here are the usual suspects:

• Canker sores: These are small, painful ulcers with a white or yellow center and red border. They generally heal in 1–2 weeks.
• Cold sores: The herpes simplex virus causes these sores, also known as fever blisters. They often appear on or near the lips and may recur.
• Irritation sores: These can be caused by braces, dentures, or biting the cheek/tongue.
• Allergic reactions: Some foods, medications, or dental materials can trigger redness or swelling.

In most cases, these types of sores resolve independently and don’t last beyond a couple of weeks.

Signs That May Point to Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can develop on the tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, and roof or floor of the mouth. Potential red flags include:

• A sore that doesn’t heal after two weeks.
• A lump, thickened area, or rough spot in the mouth.
• Red or white patches that don’t go away.
• Persistent pain, numbness, or difficulty chewing or swallowing.
• Loose teeth or a change in how dentures fit.

If a sore presents with any of the symptoms listed above, especially if you’re a smoker or consume alcohol regularly, get checked by a professional as soon as possible. Catching oral cancer early greatly improves outcomes. 

Seek Expert Advice Today

When it comes to serious illnesses like oral cancer, it’s always better to play it safe. Call the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston at 281-491-4545 and schedule an evaluation with Dr. Johnson. You can rest easy knowing you’ll be supported every step of the way in a comfortable, patient-focused environment.

The post Oral Cancer vs. Other Mouth Sores: How to Tell the Difference appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

A chipped tooth can be painful, alarming, and downright inconvenient.

Whether it happened while biting into something hard or as a result of a fall or accident, the moment you notice that rough edge or see the damage in the mirror, it’s easy to panic. Try not to worry, though. This common dental injury can often be repaired quickly and effectively.

The Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH) team understands the urgency and concern that comes with facial trauma. Led by Dr. L.T. Johnson, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, we provide prompt, compassionate care for patients in the Houston, Sugar Land, and Katy areas.

What to Do Immediately After

If you’ve just chipped a tooth, take the following steps to decrease discomfort and protect the site until you can see a dental professional:

• Rinse with warm water to clear away debris.
• Apply pressure with gauze if there’s any bleeding.
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
• Save the chip if possible, especially if it’s a large piece (Dr. Johnson may be able to reattach it).
• Avoid hard or crunchy foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

When to Seek Professional Help

Not every chip is a dental emergency, but you should call a dentist or oral surgeon if:

• You feel pain or sensitivity.
• The chip is large or has sharp edges.
• There’s bleeding that doesn’t stop.
• You have difficulty eating or speaking.

Delaying care could increase the risk of infection or further damage.

Treatments for a Chipped Tooth

The dentist’s response will vary depending on the size and location of the chip. Solutions include:

• Dental bonding to smooth out or repair small chips.
• Fillings or crowns to restore moderate chips.
• Root canals or extractions for severe fractures that expose the tooth’s pulp.

At OFSIH, we offer a full spectrum of treatments, from dental implants to surgical intervention, and will ensure you receive the most appropriate option.

Find Relief Today

Don’t let a chipped tooth compromise your comfort or confidence. When you visit the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson and his expert staff are equipped with advanced technology and a patient-first philosophy.

Call the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston at (281) 491-4545 to schedule your appointment and get back to smiling.

The post What Should I Do if I Chip a Tooth? appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headaches? Have you noticed differences in your bite or how your teeth come together? These issues could be connected to 

At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson and his skilled team have helped countless individuals across Houston, Sugar Land, and Katy improve their oral health and general well-being by addressing sleep apnea. Their dedication to precision and patient care makes them a trusted name in the community.

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Jaw Position

Sleep apnea often involves the collapse of soft tissues at the back of the throat, which blocks the airway during sleep. To compensate, your body may subconsciously reposition the lower jaw forward to open the airway. Over time, this repeated movement can alter your jaw alignment and bite.

Common effects include:

• A shifting bite (also known as malocclusion)
• Jaw tension or soreness, especially in the morning
• Increased wear on teeth from grinding or clenching

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Strain

Bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding, is frequently linked to sleep apnea. As your body struggles for air, your facial and jaw muscles tighten. You might not even realize this is happening.

Over time, this can cause:

• Worn-down teeth
• Muscle fatigue or jaw joint inflammation
• Clicking or popping in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

These dental signs are often clues a specialist uses to identify potential sleep-related disorders.

Long-Term Changes in Facial Structure

Untreated airway obstruction may also influence facial development, particularly in children and teens. Adults might notice gradual shifts in facial symmetry or bite alignment as jaw muscles overcompensate.

How Can Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Help?

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Johnson can assess your jaw structure and airway to determine if anatomical issues are contributing to sleep apnea or misalignment. Through procedures such as corrective jaw surgery or airway-focused treatments, they can improve breathing during sleep while addressing bite-related concerns.

Enjoy Better Rest and Oral Health Today

Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect how you sleep. It can change how your jaw functions and how your teeth fit together. If you’re struggling with discomfort, shifting teeth, or jaw tension, a dental evaluation could offer valuable answers.

Schedule a visit with the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston to explore your options. Call (281) 491-4545 or send us a message.

The post How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Jaw and Bite Alignment appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

Bone grafting

At Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson and his team frequently use bone grafting to restore volume and create a strong foundation for dental implants. With cutting-edge technology and a patient-first approach, OFSIH is a trusted practice for oral surgery in Houston and beyond.

Before the procedure, Dr. Johnson will choose from four types of bone grafts: autografts, allografts, xenografts, and synthetic grafts. The right choice for you depends on the extent of bone loss, general health, treatment timeline, and personal preferences. 

Autografts (Your Own Bone)

With an autograft, bone is taken from another part of your body, such as the jaw, chin, hip, or tibia, and placed in the required area.

This option has a high success rate. However, it also involves another surgical site, which can be a deterrent to some patients.

Allografts (Donor Bone)

Allografts use processed bone from a human donor (often taken from a tissue bank). This graft eliminates the need for a second surgical site. It tends to have a slightly longer integration time than autografts, though.

Xenografts (Animal Bone)

Xenografts come from non-human sources, generally bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) bone. The bone is processed to remove proteins, leaving behind a mineral structure that promotes new bone growth.

You won’t need to go through another surgery with this type of graft, but bone integration may take more time than autografts and allografts.

Synthetic Bone Grafts

Synthetic options, such as bioactive glass or hydroxyapatite, are artificial materials that mimic natural bone structure and encourage new bone growth.

With these grafts, there’s no risk of disease transmission. There’s also no concern about human or animal donors. However, synthetic grafts may not integrate as quickly as natural bone sources.

Start Strengthening Your Smile Today

Bone grafting is a proven method for restoring lost bone and ensuring long-lasting implant success.

If you’re thinking about dental implants or have been advised to undergo a bone graft, Dr. Johnson and the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston team are here to help. Contact us today at 281-491-4545 to schedule a consultation.

The post Types of Bone Grafts Explained appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.

Are you preparing for 

The healing process varies for each patient. However, understanding the timeline and following essential post-surgery guidelines will make the experience smoother. 

Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and his expert team specialize in All-on-4 implants at Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston. Focusing on comfort, safety, and lasting success, they ensure each patient receives high-quality care and support during treatment and recovery.

First 24-48 Hours: Initial Healing

Expect some swelling, minor bleeding, and discomfort. Prescription medication and ice packs can help you manage these symptoms.

Focus on soft foods and stay away from those that are hot or spicy, as they may irritate the surgical sites. Rest as much as possible, too, and avoid strenuous activities that could increase swelling.

First Week: Adjusting to Your Implants

Swelling generally peaks within 48-72 hours and then begins to subside. Sutures may start to dissolve, or Dr. Johnson can remove them if necessary.

Follow oral hygiene instructions carefully. This includes rinsing with salt water to prevent infection.

Most patients return to work within a few days and feel fine. When you go back, wait a few weeks before doing any physically demanding tasks.

Weeks 2-4: Tissue Healing and Adaptation

Most pain and swelling should be minimal or gone by this stage. You can gradually transition from liquid and soft foods to a more varied diet, but don’t chew on hard or sticky foods.

Your mouth might still be sensitive at this point. However, your implants should start feeling more natural.

Months 2-6: Implant Integration

Over the next few months, osseointegration occurs and the implants fuse with your jawbone.

Regular follow-up visits will ensure healing is progressing as expected. Once Dr. Johnson determines the implants are fully integrated, you may also be fitted for permanent prosthetic teeth.

Receive Expert Care in Houston, TX

At Oral and Facial Surgery of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson and his experienced team provide unmatched care through every step of the All-on-4 process. 

If you’re considering All-on-4 dental implants in Houston or have questions about recovery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson today. Call 281-491-4545 or send us a message.

The post All-on-4 Surgery Recovery Timeline and Tips appeared first on Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston.