What Does an Oral Surgeon Do? A Comprehensive Guide
Oral surgeons are specialized dentists who perform a wide range of procedures related to the mouth, teeth, jaws, and facial structures. They are highly trained medical professionals who address complex issues requiring surgical intervention. Unlike general dentists who focus on preventative care and routine procedures, oral surgeons handle more intricate and often invasive treatments. This guide will explore the diverse scope of their practice, answering common questions many people have about this vital medical specialty.
What types of procedures do oral surgeons perform?
Oral surgeons perform a vast array of procedures, categorized broadly into several key areas:
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Implants: This is perhaps one of the most well-known procedures performed by oral surgeons. They place dental implants – artificial tooth roots – into the jawbone to support replacement teeth, restoring function and aesthetics. This often involves bone grafting to ensure sufficient bone density for successful implant integration.
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Wisdom Teeth Removal: The extraction of wisdom teeth (third molars) is a very common procedure. Impacted wisdom teeth—those that don't fully erupt—often require surgical removal to prevent potential problems like infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or cysts.
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Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery): This involves correcting misalignments of the jawbones. This is often done in conjunction with orthodontists to improve both the function and appearance of the bite. Examples include correcting underbites, overbites, and crossbites.
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Facial Trauma Surgery: Oral surgeons play a critical role in repairing facial injuries resulting from accidents or trauma. This may involve reconstructive procedures to repair broken bones, lacerations, and other injuries to the face and jaw.
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Dental Extractions: While general dentists also perform extractions, oral surgeons handle more complex extractions, such as those involving impacted or severely damaged teeth.
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Biopsies: Oral surgeons take biopsies of suspicious lesions or growths in the mouth to determine if they are cancerous or benign.
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Treatment of Oral Infections: They treat severe infections and diseases of the mouth, including cysts and abscesses, often requiring surgical drainage or debridement.
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Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Oral surgeons can diagnose and treat disorders of the TMJ, the joint connecting the jaw to the skull, which can cause pain and dysfunction.
What is the difference between an oral surgeon and a general dentist?
The key difference lies in the scope of training and the types of procedures performed. General dentists provide routine dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and basic extractions. Oral surgeons undergo extensive surgical training beyond general dentistry, enabling them to perform complex surgical procedures of the mouth, jaws, and face. Think of it as a specialist versus a general practitioner in the dental field.
How long does it take to become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon requires many years of dedicated study. After completing dental school, aspiring oral surgeons must complete a 4-6 year residency program focusing specifically on oral and maxillofacial surgery. This intensive training equips them with the advanced surgical skills and knowledge necessary for their complex work.
What kind of education is required to become an oral surgeon?
The path to becoming an oral surgeon is rigorous and demanding. It involves:
- Completion of a four-year dental school program leading to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
- Completion of a four- to six-year residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This residency program involves extensive surgical training, research, and clinical experience.
What are the qualifications of an oral surgeon?
Qualified oral surgeons hold a DDS or DMD degree, followed by completion of a rigorous and accredited oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program. They are licensed to practice in their respective states and are often board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS), demonstrating a high level of expertise and commitment to excellence.
Do oral surgeons only work in hospitals?
While many oral surgeons work in hospital settings, especially those specializing in trauma or complex cases, others have private practices where they perform a wide range of procedures, including implants and wisdom teeth extractions. The setting depends largely on the surgeon’s specialization and professional preference.
In conclusion, oral surgeons are highly skilled medical professionals who provide crucial surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, and face. Their expertise is essential for maintaining oral health, correcting facial deformities, and managing complex surgical situations.
