If you’re searching for a reliable mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA, this guide will help you know when to see one and how to pick the right oral surgeon for complex dental care. It’s written for adults facing wisdom tooth problems, implant needs, facial trauma, or recurring jaw pain who want clear, practical advice.
Read on to learn the signs that require an oral surgeon, what procedures a mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA, performs, which technologies improve outcomes, what questions to ask, and a brief look at Dr. Ali Alijanian’s practice near the end.
When you should see a mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA
See a mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA, if you have any of the following symptoms or diagnoses. These issues often need surgical care beyond general dentistry:
- Impacted wisdom teeth cause pain, infection, or recurrent swelling
- Persistent tooth or root infection that won’t heal with antibiotics
- Severe facial or dental trauma (broken jaw, loose or knocked-out teeth)
- Chronic jaw pain, locking, or limited mouth opening (TMJ-related problems)
- Missing teeth where dental implants or full-arch solutions are planned
For major bleeding, loss of consciousness, or breathing problems after facial injury, go to the ER. For non-life-threatening but urgent dental infections or severe pain, contact a mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA, or your dentist right away.
What a mouth doctor (oral and maxillofacial surgeon) does
A mouth, dr (oral and maxillofacial surgeon) handles surgical care of the mouth, jaws, and face. Common procedures include tooth and wisdom-tooth extractions, implant placement, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery, repair of facial fractures, and diagnosis/biopsy of suspicious oral lesions.
Oral surgeons also provide sedation and anesthesia. Many offer local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and work with board-certified anesthesiologists for safe care in more complex cases. Ask about anesthesia options before any surgical plan.
Common implant and full-arch options explained
Single implants and implant crowns
Single-tooth implants replace one missing tooth with a titanium implant and a crown. The typical timeline is implant placement, a healing period of a few months for bone to integrate, then a final crown. This restores chewing and looks similar to a natural tooth.
All-on-X / same-day full-arch restorations
All-on-X refers to a full-arch prosthesis supported by multiple implants (often 4–6). Many patients benefit when they need a full upper or lower arch replaced. Some practices can place implants and attach a temporary fixed bridge the same day for faster function and appearance.
Zygomatic implants and advanced grafting
Zygomatic implants are longer implants anchored in the cheekbone for patients with severe jawbone loss. When bone is insufficient, bone grafting or sinus lifts may be required. These advanced options let some patients avoid multiple grafting surgeries and achieve stable teeth more quickly.
Technology that matters when choosing a mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA
Modern tech makes surgery safer and more predictable. Ask whether the mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA, uses:
- Cone-beam CT (CBCT) for 3D imaging of bone and nerves
- 3D intraoral scanning for accurate impressions
- CAD/CAM design and 3D printing to fabricate guides and provisional teeth
- Guided-surgery protocols to ensure precise implant angles
Good questions for your consult: Do you take CBCT scans? Will you use a surgical guide? Can I see the digital plan before surgery?
How to evaluate a mouth doctor’s experience and credentials
Look for clear, verifiable credentials and experience. Important qualifications include:
- Board certification in oral and maxillofacial surgery
- Completed residency training at an accredited program
- Anesthesia training or the use of a board-certified anesthesiologist for sedation cases
- Membership in specialty organizations or fellowship training
Red flags: vague answers about case volume, no before/after examples, or no anesthesiology oversight for moderate-to-complex cases.
Top questions to ask your mouth doctor
- How many of these procedures do you perform each year?
- What anesthesia options do I have, and who will monitor me?
- What complications can occur, and how would you handle them?
- Can I see before/after photos and patient reviews?
- What is the full cost, and are financing options available?
Good answers should be clear, use plain language, include a step-by-step plan, and give realistic timelines and risks.
Cost, recovery, and timeline expectations
Costs vary by the number of implants, the need for bone grafting, the level of sedation, and the type of prosthetic used. Recovery depends on the procedure:
- Extractions: most patients recover in 3–7 days for basic healing; full bone healing takes longer.
- Single implants: initial healing 2–3 months before final crown in many cases.
- Full-arch cases: Same-day temporaries may allow for quick function; final restorations often come later after healing.
Pain is usually manageable with prescribed meds, ice, and soft foods. Follow post-op instructions closely to reduce the risk of complications.
What to expect at your first visit with a mouth doctor in Walnut Creek, CA
Your first consult typically includes a medical history review, CBCT or other imaging, an intraoral scan or impressions, and a discussion of the treatment plan. The mouth doctor will explain anesthesia options, the estimated timeline, and the costs. Bring a list of medications, prior dental records, and any questions.
About Ali Alijanian, DDS — light practice overview (why this office may be a good fit)
Ali Alijanian, DDS, is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Walnut Creek with over 24 years of experience and residency training at Alameda Health System. He is a diplomate of national boards and has managed thousands of complex implant and surgical cases.
The practice uses advanced digital tech—CBCT imaging, intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM, and 3D printing—and maintains an on-site dental lab for faster prosthetic fabrication. Dr. Alijanian leads training at the Centurion Practi(CE)nter and provides guided-surgery expertise and sedation care, allowing streamlined single-surgeon treatment from consultation to restoration.
How to choose between local options and next steps
Use a quick checklist when comparing surgeons: verified credentials, use of modern technology, a clear written treatment plan, transparent pricing, and how comfortable you feel with the team. If your case is complex or you’re unsure, schedule a second opinion.
Closing / Call to action
If you need an experienced oral surgeon in Walnut Creek, CA, for wisdom teeth, dental implants, jaw surgery, or facial trauma, book a consultation to review imaging and get a personalized plan. Contact Ali Alijanian, DDS, to discuss advanced implant and surgical care and to learn if his practice is right for your needs.
