What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a dentist who has been specially trained to handle oral surgery as well as surgery of the face and jaw. They work with patients who require surgery such as tooth extractions, oral cancer treatments, and dental implant surgery. Their special training means they have the expertise to ensure your surgery will provide excellent results.
What Does Oral Surgery Include?
Oral surgery includes any surgery performed on the mouth or teeth. Maxillofacial surgery involves work done on the jaw or face. And oral and maxillofacial surgeon is trained to handle issues with all these areas.
Some of the more common procedures performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon include:
- Tooth extractions
- TMJ surgery
- Jaw reconstruction
- Preparation for dental implants
- Orthodontic surgery
- Surgical correction of head, neck, or facial trauma
- Diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea
Some oral surgeons also perform facial cosmetic procedures. Unlike most surgical practitioners, oral surgeons are qualified to administer anesthesia, ensuring your complete comfort during your procedure.
Why Would I Need Oral or Maxillofacial Surgery?
You might require oral surgery in numerous circumstances. The majority of people who have their wisdom teeth extracted do so under the care of an oral surgeon. If you experience a car accident or other facial trauma, you might need an oral surgeon to reconstruct jaw or facial bones. In addition, oral surgeons can correct misalignment to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) if other TMD treatment has not been successful. Obstructive sleep apnea, in which the structure of the throat obstructs your breathing, is also treated by an oral surgeon if surgery proves necessary. If you are having dental implants placed, an oral surgeon will most likely handle any bone grafting procedures you need to prepare your jaw for your new teeth.
If you have any questions about oral or maxillofacial surgery, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or a consultation. We want to ensure you have the best possible treatment in all areas of oral care.