What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

oral surgeon RichmondHas your dentist recommended oral surgery? Perhaps you have been referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). An oral surgeon is a specialist that performs a variety of treatments and procedures that address issues affecting the entire oral health system and the face. Since an OMS treats issues that affect oral health, he or she will commonly work with dentists and orthodontists to create treatment plans for patients.

What kind of education and training does an oral surgeon possess?

An OMS will first earn a standard doctor of dental surgery (DDS) degree. After this is completed, an aspiring OMS will pursue advanced education in oral and maxillofacial surgery. In addition to earning an advanced degree, one must complete specialty training and pass board certifications, which involves very intensive testing. Becoming an oral surgeon takes commitment and dedication.

How can an oral surgeon help me?

An oral surgeon can perform a number of treatments that a dentist or orthodontist cannot. Moreover, oral surgeons are intimately acquainted with the intricacies of oral and facial anatomy. Common treatments and procedures performed by an OMS include tooth extractions, corrective jaw surgery, tissue grafts, implant dentistry, and oral pathology.

A large part of an oral surgeon’s practice involves treating facial trauma. Facial trauma can occur after incidents like car wrecks or accidental falls. Traumatic facial injuries can affect oral and facial structures. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons strive to maintain or improve one’s aesthetic along with preserving oral function after a traumatic injury.

Is oral surgery uncomfortable?

When our oral surgeons perform any surgical treatment, anesthetic medication is used. More invasive procedures normally require the administration of medication through an IV feed. This type of medication is normally a combination of pain relieving and sedating drugs. In addition to medication, our team utilizes the latest techniques and instruments to reduce invasiveness and promote optimal recovery times. Our mission is to ensure that every guest at our practice receives the highest quality care in the most comfortable circumstances possible.

Call Commonwealth Oral & Facial Surgery today to reserve a consultation.