A longtime oral surgery practice based in Pocatello is changing its name.

The former Facial & Oral Associates will now be known as Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho.

“It may be a new name, but we want to emphasize to our patients that it’s the same five-star experience,” said Dr. Mark Ensio Baker, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, adding that they’ll still have the same doctors and the same staff. “It’s just a new brand with the same happy, smiling people.”

Baker says they are planning a public open house at the business, located at 165 N. 14th Ave. in Pocatello, from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday. Those who attend will be able to enjoy some refreshments as well as meet Baker and his fellow oral surgeon, Dr. Shawn A. Jepsen.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the longtime business.

“The business began back in 1949 with Dr. Bland Weaver Sutton, who was one of the first oral surgeons in Idaho,” according to the business’ website. “His vision for an oral surgery practice was to provide needed services that truly enhance patients’ lives.”

Today, the business not only offers but specializes in a variety of services, including dental implants, wisdom teeth removal and other kinds of extractions, bone and soft tissue grafting, TMJ treatment, reconstructive oral surgery, cosmetic surgery and more, according to its website.

Baker hopes the new name will draw more attention to the business’ expertise when it comes to oral surgeries.

“I think it’s really to emphasize to patients and the public that we are specialists in that area,” Baker said.

While general dentists may dabble in some oral surgeries, like wisdom tooth removal and dental implants, Baker said he and Jepsen have devoted their careers to such services.

“We have close to 40 years of experience between the two of us,” Baker said, adding that he believes patients will have a better experience, fewer complications and will be able to heal faster when they go to a specialist for their oral surgery needs.

Many people throughout Southeast Idaho already do.

Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho currently has satellite offices in Blackfoot and Preston to better accommodate its patients.

Baker believes it’s not only the expertise of the doctors, but also the caring staff who help draw people to their practice.

“We’re blessed to have an outstanding staff who is also committed to providing patients with a five-star experience from the minute they call our office to the time they walk through the front door,” Baker said.

For more information about Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho, visit facialandoralsurgery.com.