Dr. Jennifer Okhiria treats children and teenagers referred by their orthodontist or pediatric dentist at The Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite in Atlanta. That includes removing baby teeth that won't come out on their own, extra teeth, and helping a stuck tooth come in before or during braces.
Dr. Okhiria treats your child like her own
What do orthodontists refer kids for?
Baby teeth that are blocking adult teeth, extra teeth (called supernumerary teeth) that crowd the others, and adult teeth that are stuck under the gum. For a stuck tooth, Dr. Okhiria can uncover it so your orthodontist can guide it into place.
Does my child need surgery right away?
Often, no. Dr. Okhiria prefers to watch and wait when that's safe, and she works with your child's orthodontist on timing. "I'm always thinking, if it were my child, what would I do?"
How do you keep kids comfortable?
Most short procedures are done with local anesthesia and laughing gas. Dr. Okhiria is a mom of three and talks to kids directly, in plain words, before anything happens.
Honest limits
Cleanings, fillings and checkups belong with your child's pediatric dentist. We see kids for the surgical part and send them back.
Cost and scheduling
Many of these procedures are partly covered by dental insurance. We coordinate the date with your orthodontist's treatment plan.
Questions patients ask about oral surgery for kids and teens
Does my child need a referral?
Most children come to us referred by their orthodontist or pediatric dentist, which helps us coordinate timing with braces. You can also call our Atlanta office directly, and we'll ask for recent X-rays from your child's dentist before the visit.
Can I stay with my child?
Yes, a parent can stay for the consult and the explanation beforehand. We'll talk about the procedure in plain words with you and your child. Our Atlanta team will tell you where to wait during the procedure itself and bring you back right after.
Will my child need to be sedated?
Most short procedures for kids are done with local anesthesia and laughing gas, which wears off quickly. IV sedation is reserved for longer procedures and older teens when it's appropriate. Dr. Okhiria in Atlanta explains her recommendation before anything is scheduled.
What is a supernumerary tooth?
It's an extra tooth beyond the normal set. Extra teeth can block adult teeth from coming in or crowd the others. Many are found on routine X-rays. Dr. Okhiria removes them at our Atlanta office when they're causing a problem or getting in the way of braces.
How soon can my child go back to school?
After a short procedure with local anesthesia and laughing gas, many kids go back the next day. After longer procedures, plan a day or two at home with soft foods. Our Atlanta team gives you written instructions and will call to check in.
Request a consult
Send a request and our team will call you to find a time. Most patients come with a referral from their dentist, and you're welcome without one.