Why Do I Need an Oral Surgeon?

Oral or maxillofacial surgeons specialize in treating complex medical problems relating to the face, mouth, teeth, and jaws. They are usually referred to in situations where a surgical procedure is necessary. 

In this article, Dr. Robert Astles in Vero Beach, Florida, explains when you may need an oral surgeon. 

Dentists are primary dental care providers. They normally complete undergraduate school and attend 4 to 5 years of dental school. After this, they receive either a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) or a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree.

An oral surgeon is a specialist who after receiving a DMD or DDS, completes a 4-year surgical residency at a hospital. They are also trained in administering IV sedation and general anesthesia.

Some situations that may require you to see an oral surgeon include: 

Unlike dentures or bridges that are fitted on top of the gums, implants are placed into the jawbone. An artificial tooth is then fitted on top to restore the tooth’s shape and function. This is a dentoalveolar procedure that requires the oral surgeon to cut into the jaw bone and the gum tissue. 

This is one of the most common procedures performed by oral surgeons. Extractions are routinely done to prevent the spread of caries and gum disease. They are also necessary for extremely damaged teeth or to prevent overcrowding.

Oral surgeons routinely correct congenital malformations and traumatic fractures. These may include issues like cleft palate and fractures of the cheekbone, jaw, nose, and eye socket.

Commonly known as corrective jaw surgery, orthognathic surgery is used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. This intervention not only relieves pain, but also cures bite, speaking, and breathing problems and improves appearance. 

Studies say that thousands of people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon if they notice any suspicious lesion or lump in your mouth.

Oral surgeons are specialized in oral pathology including screening, diagnosing, and removing cancer cells and masses, both malignant and benign.