When facing complex dental issues or the need for facial surgery, your dentist might refer you to oral and maxillofacial surgeons. But what exactly does this specialist do? Understanding the role of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) not only clarifies their expertise but also helps you appreciate the comprehensive care they provide. In this guide, we’ll explore who they are, what they do, and why you might need their services.
What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, surgically treating, and managing conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and related structures. Unlike general dentists, these surgeons undergo several years of hospital-based surgical residency. As a result, they are equipped to handle a wide range of procedures, from routine extractions to complex reconstructive surgeries.
Key Procedures Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Perform
- Wisdom Teeth Removal: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infections, and alignment issues. Consequently, OMSs safely remove these teeth, often using sedation techniques to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Dental Implants: When you lose a tooth, dental implants offer a permanent replacement solution. Oral surgeons place the implant into the jawbone, thus providing a strong foundation for the new tooth.
- Corrective Jaw Surgery: Also known as orthognathic surgery, this procedure corrects jaw misalignments that affect chewing, speech, and facial appearance. Typically, it combines with orthodontic treatment for optimal results.
- Facial Trauma Surgery: Accidents can result in facial fractures, lacerations, or knocked-out teeth. In these cases, OMSs repair these injuries, restoring both function and appearance.
- Oral Pathology: Detecting and treating diseases of the mouth, such as cysts, tumors, or oral cancer, is a critical part of an oral surgeon’s role. Early diagnosis and treatment typically lead to better outcomes.
Why You Might Need an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
There are several situations where you might need an OMS, especially if your condition requires specialized surgical care that goes beyond your general dentist’s expertise. Some common reasons include:
- Complex Tooth Extractions: If a tooth is impacted or difficult to remove, an OMS can perform the extraction with minimal risk, ensuring a safer and more efficient process.
- Jaw Misalignment: Jaw misalignment can cause discomfort, difficulty chewing, and even breathing problems. In these cases, corrective jaw surgery effectively addresses these concerns.
- Facial Reconstruction: After trauma or surgery for tumors, reconstructive procedures by an OMS can restore both function and aesthetics to your face and jaw, helping you regain confidence and normalcy.
- Advanced Dental Implants: When there is insufficient bone for a traditional implant, an OMS can perform bone grafting or sinus lifts to create a suitable foundation, making the implant procedure possible and successful.
In summary, oral and maxillofacial surgeons play a vital role in treating complex dental and facial issues. Their specialized expertise ensures that you receive the highest standard of care for procedures that go beyond routine dental treatments. At Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our skilled surgeons are committed to providing personalized, compassionate care tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve optimal oral health.
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