Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) is a specialty in dentistry that focuses on treating diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and soft tissues. OMS specialists undergo an extensive education and training program to provide patients with the highest level of care. This article will explore what oral and maxillofacial surgery entails, the different types of procedures, and when you may need to see an OMS specialist.

The experienced team at Howell Dentistry of Suffolk, VA, is proud to serve the local community with premium dental services so that even the most complicated health issues can be addressed to return your quality of life.

What is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a specialized field of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, surgical and adjunctive treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and esthetic aspects of the complex and soft tissues of the head, neck, mouth, and jaws.

Types of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Procedures

OMS procedures can range from minor surgeries to major ones that require extensive preparation and recovery time. Some of the most common procedures include:

• Tooth extraction: An OMS specialist can extract teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or impacted.
• Dental implant surgery involves placing an artificial tooth root into the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis.
• Orthognathic surgery: This procedure corrects jaw and facial irregularities, such as under or overbites.
• TMJ surgery: TMJ surgery treats disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint, which can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw and surrounding muscles.
• Cleft lip and palate repair: This surgery corrects congenital deformities of the lip and palate.
• Reconstructive surgery: OMS specialists can perform reconstructive surgery to repair facial injuries, such as fractures or lacerations.

The list is not exhaustive but does present some of the therapies and issues that are more prevalent in the industry.

Benefits of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can provide a wide range of benefits for patients, including:

Improved Function

Many Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery procedures aim to improve teeth, jaws, and oral cavity function. This can include restoring missing teeth with dental implants or correcting jaw misalignment to improve chewing and speaking.

Enhanced Appearance

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can also improve the appearance of the face, jaws, and teeth. This can include cosmetic procedures like chin implants or corrective jaw surgery to improve facial symmetry.

Relief of Pain and Discomfort

Some Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery procedures are performed to relieve pain and discomfort caused by dental or facial issues. This can include the removal of impacted wisdom teeth or the treatment of TMJ disorders.

Your Quality Dental Care Experts

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is an essential field of dentistry that can help patients improve the function, appearance, and overall health of their teeth, jaws, and oral cavity. Whether you require a simple tooth extraction or a complex reconstructive surgery, choosing an experienced Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon can help ensure that you receive the highest quality of care. If you need Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, speak with your dentist or healthcare provider to learn more about your options.

During your appointment with the qualified team at Howell Dentistry of Suffolk, VA, you can be sure you receive the proper care and guidance you and your family deserve, regardless of the circumstance.