Oral and Maxillofacial
Some dental problems need more than a simple solution.
Most dental appointments are routine. A checkup. A filling. Perhaps a crown. But every so often, something more complex comes along – a wisdom tooth lodged deep in the jawbone, an injury from an accident, or a bite misalignment that makes eating painful day after day.
That is where an oral and maxillofacial surgeon comes in. This specialty brings together dentistry and surgery, offering patients both skill and compassionate care when the situation requires it.
Specialized surgical care for the mouth, jaw, and face.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery covers a broad range of treatments. Some are scheduled well ahead of time; others are needed quickly following an accident or unexpected diagnosis. The aim is always the same – to address the problem and restore your ability to speak, eat, and smile comfortably.
You may be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for:
• Extracting impacted or badly damaged teeth
• Treating certain TMJ conditions
• Repairing facial trauma or bone fractures
• Building up bone in preparation for dental implants
• Corrective jaw surgery to improve function
• Removing cysts, abnormal growths, or tissue changes
No two cases are alike, and neither are the treatment plans.
A conversation first, a procedure second.
Before any treatment begins, you will sit down with the surgeon to review your medical history, describe your symptoms, and ask questions. They may request scans or imaging and will take the time to explain what they have found and why surgery might be the right path forward.
You will also talk through anesthesia options, expected recovery time, and what home care will look like after the procedure.
Depending on your needs, your care may involve:
• Imaging and detailed surgical planning
• Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia
• The procedure itself, performed at a clinic or hospital
• Close monitoring right after surgery
• Follow-up appointments to track your healing
Some patients recover within a few days; others require more time. You will receive clear, specific instructions that match your situation.
Your dental questions, answered.
Surgery may be the next step, but you will not face it on your own.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons combine specialized expertise with a patient-centered approach. Whether extracting a troublesome tooth or treating a facial injury, their work is focused on bringing you relief and supporting your long-term oral health.