The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Dr. Andrew Horowitz

About Dr. Andrew Horowitz

Dr. Andrew Horowitz is a Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon affiliated with New York Oral, Maxillofacial and Implant Surgery, renowned as the premier oral surgery practice in Scarsdale and Mount Kisco, NY. Over the last eighteen years, Dr. Horowitz has been an integral member of NYOMIS, contributing his expertise as a partner within the group. With dual training as a dentist (DMD) and medical doctor (MD), Dr. Horowitz possesses a wealth of experience enabling him to practice the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, with a particular focus on complex dental implant procedures and bone grafting.

To schedule an appointment, call (914) 472-0100 (Scarsdale) or 914-689-7550 (Mount Kisco).

Insights from an Oral Surgeon: A Parent’s Guide to Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal

by

As parents, we are always thinking ahead. From school schedules to extracurricular activities, planning plays a key role in supporting our children’s well-being. One important milestone that often gets overlooked is the evaluation and potential removal of wisdom teeth. Taking a proactive approach can make a meaningful difference in both the experience and the outcome.

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically develop between the ages of 16 and 25. In many cases, there is not enough space in the jaw to accommodate them properly. This can lead to impaction, crowding, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. What makes this more challenging is that these issues do not always present with obvious symptoms. Problems can develop quietly, which is why early evaluation is so important.

When wisdom teeth are assessed early, we can identify potential concerns before they become more complex. In many cases, removing wisdom teeth during the late teenage years allows for a smoother procedure and a more predictable recovery. The roots are often not fully developed, which reduces surgical difficulty and lowers the risk of complications. Patients also tend to heal more quickly at this age, making the overall experience easier for both the child and the family.

Summer is an ideal time to plan for this procedure. With school out of session and schedules more flexible, families have the opportunity to approach surgery without the added pressure of academic responsibilities. This allows for proper rest and recovery without interruption. For students preparing to leave for college, summer timing is especially beneficial, ensuring they are fully healed before starting a new chapter.

Preparation is an important part of the process. Scheduling a consultation early allows time to discuss the procedure, review imaging, and answer any questions. It is also helpful to talk with your child about what to expect. Understanding the process can ease anxiety and help them feel more comfortable. Planning ahead for recovery, including time at home and a supply of soft foods, helps set expectations and creates a smoother experience.

On the day of surgery, the procedure is typically completed in less than an hour. Patients are cared for in a controlled and comfortable environment, with anesthesia options tailored to their needs. Our team provides clear post-operative instructions and remains available to support patients throughout the healing process.

Taking a forward-looking approach to wisdom teeth removal helps prevent unnecessary complications and supports long-term oral health. By planning ahead and utilizing the summer months, families can ensure a more relaxed and successful experience.

If your child is approaching the age for a wisdom teeth evaluation, now is the right time to take the next step.

A Day in the Life of an Oral Surgeon

by

My day usually starts around 7:00 a.m. I get ready, answer a few emails, and head out the door. I’m not much of a breakfast person–I tend to do a light morning fast and save eating for later in the day.

On the drive into the office, I listen to music. It helps me shift gears, clear my head, and get into the right mindset for the day. Most mornings it’s the Grateful Dead, though I’ll mix in some country now and then. It’s a simple routine, but it helps me stay relaxed and focused before the work begins.

When I arrive at NYOMIS, the team is already preparing for the day’s patients. Before we begin seeing anyone, we come together to review the schedule and map out the day ahead. We look closely at each case–especially larger procedures or implant cases–and make sure we’re fully prepared. We double and triple check materials, equipment, and timing so there are no surprises.

Preparation sets the tone for everything that follows. When we’re calm and organized, it creates a better environment for both the team and our patients. Being prepared minimizes stress and allows us to deliver the best care possible.

On a typical day, I perform a range of procedures, most commonly wisdom teeth extractions and dental implant cases. These can range from straightforward single implants to more complex full-mouth procedures.

Patient anxiety is something we take very seriously. Oral surgery can be intimidating, and I think much of that fear comes from the word “surgery” itself. I often prefer to use the term “procedure,” which helps reframe expectations and ease anxiety. We take time to listen, answer questions, and reassure patients that they are in good hands. From compassion and clear communication to sedation options like nitrous oxide or IV sedation, everything we do is centered around patient comfort and trust.

The most rewarding part of my work is seeing the impact it has on people’s lives. Helping someone feel better, improve their quality of life, or regain confidence in their smile is incredibly meaningful. I recently treated a patient who had struggled for years with her smile and underwent a full-arch dental implant procedure. Seeing her reaction afterward was a powerful reminder of why I love what I do.

In surgery, the moment I feel most in my element is when everything comes together–the planning, the precision, and the final result. That’s when you know the work has paid off.

At the end of the day, our team comes together again to review cases, look ahead to the next day, and make sure we’re fully prepared. When I get home, I unwind by spending time with my son, having dinner, and catching any Michigan or Detroit sporting event on TV, if one’s on.

A good day, to me, is simple: knowing I helped make a positive impact on someone’s life and being grateful for the opportunity to do so.

Insights from an Oral Surgeon: What You Should Know About Wisdom Teeth

by

Beyond the Basics: Understanding the Role and Risks of Wisdom Teeth

As oral health milestones go, the arrival–or removal–of wisdom teeth is one many of us will encounter. These third molars typically make their debut in the late teens or early twenties, but despite their name, they often bring more challenges than wisdom. As an oral surgeon, I’ve seen firsthand the complications that can arise when these teeth are left unmanaged. This guide outlines the essential facts about wisdom teeth to help you, or your child make informed decisions for long-term dental health.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars to emerge, usually at the back of the mouth. While they once served an important function for our ancestors’ diets, today they are often more problematic than helpful.

Why Are They Often Removed?

In many cases, there simply isn’t enough space in the modern jaw to accommodate these additional molars. This can result in impaction, a condition in which the teeth fail to fully erupt through the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, crowding, decay, or infections–and often damage adjacent teeth.

Signs It’s Time to Evaluate

If you’re experiencing pain in the back of your mouth, swelling, difficulty opening your jaw, or unexplained bad breath, it could be related to wisdom teeth. However, problems can also develop silently. That’s why proactive evaluation, even in the absence of symptoms, is strongly recommended–especially in patients between the ages of 16 and 25.

The Case for Early Intervention

Timing is critical. Removing wisdom teeth before the roots fully form allows for a more predictable procedure with fewer complications and faster healing. In most cases, early removal prevents future oral health issues and helps preserve the results of orthodontic treatment.

What to Expect from Surgery

The procedure is typically performed in-office under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs. Most extractions take less than an hour, and thanks to modern surgical techniques, recovery is often quick and uneventful. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medications and proper care.

Your Next Step

If you or your child hasn’t yet had a wisdom tooth evaluation, now is the time. Taking proactive steps today can prevent serious dental issues down the road and protect your long-term oral health.

Insights from an Oral Surgeon: Top Reasons You May Need Dental Surgery

by

Dental Surgery: A Path to Optimal Oral Health and Functionality

Dr. Andrew Horowitz, DMD, MD, FACS

Dental health is fundamental to overall well-being, and addressing oral issues promptly is crucial to maintaining it. Dental surgery often serves as a transformative solution for patients facing a wide range of oral health challenges. As an oral surgeon, I understand that the prospect of surgery can be daunting. However, being informed about the reasons and benefits of dental surgery can empower you to take the right steps toward long-term health and comfort.

Understanding Dental Surgery: When and Why It’s Needed

Dental surgery encompasses procedures designed to resolve structural, functional, or health-related issues. Whether you’re dealing with impacted teeth, jaw misalignment, or advanced gum disease, surgical intervention can restore both health and confidence.

Common Reasons for Dental Surgery

1. Wisdom Teeth Removal: Impacted or improperly aligned wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infections, and damage to adjacent teeth. Early removal ensures a smoother recovery and prevents long-term complications.

2. Dental Implants: For those with missing teeth, dental implants provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. They not only enhance appearance but also improve functionality and jawbone health.

3. Correcting Jaw Issues: Jaw misalignment can cause pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems. Orthognathic surgery addresses these concerns, improving both function and facial aesthetics.

4. Periodontal Disease Management: Severe gum disease may require surgical intervention, such as pocket reduction surgery, to halt progression and protect surrounding teeth and bone.

5. Treating Oral Infections or Cysts: Surgical removal of abscesses, cysts, or infected tissue helps to prevent the spread of infection and preserves oral health.

Preparing for Dental Surgery

Preparation begins with a thorough consultation. During this visit, we discuss the procedure, anesthesia options, and post-operative care. With advancements in technology and techniques, modern dental surgery is safer and more efficient than ever before.

Recovery: A Smooth Transition Back to Health

Our team is committed to ensuring a seamless recovery experience. Pain is managed with tailored approaches, and most patients can return to normal activities within days.

Take the First Step Today

If you’re experiencing oral health issues or have been advised to consider dental surgery, we’re here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care in a welcoming environment, ensuring your journey to optimal oral health is as smooth as possible.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Expertise

by

Dr. Andrew Horowitz, DMD, MD, FACS

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. What distinguishes oral surgeons is their extensive training. At NYOMIS, our surgeons hold both dental and medical degrees – a unique combination that provides patients with a truly comprehensive approach to care. This dual expertise allows us to consider your overall health while developing personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.

Whether you’re coming in for a routine or complex procedure, you can trust our skilled professionals to prioritize both safety and optimal results.

Essential Procedures: Implants, Wisdom Teeth, and Extractions

Many patients visit an oral surgeon for essential procedures that restore function and comfort, including:

  • Dental Implants: A permanent solution for missing teeth, implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth, helping maintain the structure of your jaw and preventing further bone loss.
  • Wisdom Teeth Removal: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth. Our surgeons remove them in a way that minimizes discomfort and promotes quick healing.
  • Tooth Extractions: When a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, extraction may be necessary. Oral surgeons are skilled in both simple and complex extractions, ensuring a smooth and safe procedure.

Advanced Procedures: Full-Arch Implants, Facial Trauma, Sedation Options, and More

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons also specialize in a range of advanced, life-changing procedures, including:

  • Full-Arch Implants: A permanent solution for missing teeth, full-arch implants use strategically placed implants to support a complete set of prosthetic teeth. Immediate load options allow you to leave with a fully restored smile the same day.
  • Facial Trauma and Reconstruction: We treat complex injuries like fractures, lacerations, and tissue damage caused by accidents or congenital defects, restoring both function and appearance.
  • Sedation Options: Our surgeons, trained by medical anesthesiologists, offer safe and effective sedation for patients with anxiety about oral care.

Beyond these procedures, we are fully equipped to handle all types of oral surgery, ensuring expert care for any condition.

At NYOMIS, our combined medical and dental expertise enables us to take an integrated approach to oral health, from surgery to recovery. Trust us with your oral surgery needs, and experience the benefits of comprehensive, patient-centered care. Contact us today to learn how we can make a difference for you.