The term "oral surgery" often conjures images of wisdom teeth removal, but this specialized field of dentistry encompasses a far wider range of diagnostic and surgical procedures. It deals with diseases, injuries, and defects involving the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial (jaw and face) region. Understanding the scope of oral surgery can empower you to make informed decisions about your dental health and seek appropriate care when needed.  

What Exactly is Oral Surgery?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a surgical specialty recognized internationally. Oral surgeons undergo extensive training beyond general dentistry, including hospital-based surgical and anesthesia residencies. This rigorous training equips them with the expertise to manage complex conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws, and facial structures.  

Common Procedures Performed by Oral Surgeons:

Oral surgeons perform a diverse array of procedures, including but not limited to:

• Tooth Extractions: This includes simple extractions for decayed or damaged teeth, as well as complex surgical extractions for impacted teeth, particularly wisdom teeth.  

• Dental Implants: The placement of titanium posts into the jawbone to support artificial teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures), offering a stable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth.  

• Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery): Procedures to correct misaligned jaws and teeth, improving bite function, facial aesthetics, and addressing issues like difficulty chewing, speaking, or chronic jaw pain.  

• Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Management of pain and dysfunction affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, which can involve surgical and non-surgical approaches.  

• Diagnosis and Treatment of Oral Cancer and Other Pathologies: Oral surgeons are trained to identify and treat benign and malignant tumors, cysts, and other lesions in the oral and maxillofacial region. This often involves biopsies, surgical removal, and reconstruction.  

• Management of Facial Trauma: Repair of fractures and soft tissue injuries to the face and jaws resulting from accidents or trauma.  

• Cleft Lip and Palate Repair: Surgical correction of congenital defects affecting the lip and roof of the mouth.  

• Bone Grafting: Procedures to augment or rebuild bone in the jaw, often necessary before dental implant placement or to repair bone loss due to periodontal disease or injury.  

• Sleep Apnea Surgery: Surgical options to address obstructive sleep apnea by modifying the airway.  

When Might You Need to See an Oral Surgeon?

While your general dentist can handle many of your routine dental needs, they may refer you to an oral surgeon for more complex issues. Some common reasons for a referral include:  

• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don't have enough space to erupt properly, they can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.  

• Missing Teeth Requiring Implants: Oral surgeons are specialists in the surgical placement of dental implants.  

• Significant Jaw Misalignment: If you have a noticeable underbite, overbite, or crossbite affecting your bite and appearance, corrective jaw surgery might be recommended.

• Persistent Jaw Pain or Dysfunction: Symptoms of TMJ disorders that don't respond to conservative treatment may require surgical intervention.  

• Suspicious Growths or Lesions in the Mouth: Oral surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat oral pathologies, including cancer.  

• Facial Injuries: Fractures or severe soft tissue damage to the face and jaws often require the expertise of an oral surgeon.  

What to Expect During an Oral Surgery Consultation:

During your initial consultation, the oral surgeon will review your medical history, conduct a thorough examination (including X-rays or other imaging), and discuss your treatment options. They will explain the procedure in detail, including the risks and benefits, and answer any questions you may have.  

The Importance of Choosing a Qualified Oral Surgeon:

Due to the complexity of many oral surgery procedures, it's crucial to choose a board-certified or board-eligible oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This ensures that your surgeon has undergone the necessary training and possesses the expertise to provide safe and effective treatment.

Taking care of your oral health sometimes requires specialized surgical intervention. Understanding the scope of oral surgery can help you navigate your dental care journey with confidence.

For Oral Surgery Services, consider Dr. Rosas Dental Clinic with branches conveniently located at:

• BAMC, Taculing, Bacolod City

• Sum-ag, Bacolod City

• Jaro, Iloilo City