What is a Board Certification?
Board certification is granted through the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) for oral surgeons. It represents the highest level of professional achievement and demonstrates the surgeon’s skill in undertaking complex procedures that a general dentist does not have the training for.
What Does an Oral Surgeon Do?
Oral surgeons treat issues relating to the mouth, jaw, and the hard and soft tissues of the mouth and are experts at treating problems related to them. Some of the treatments oral surgeons perform include but are not limited to include: teeth extractions, dental implants, facial trauma, TMJ disorder, oncologic surgery, and reconstructive surgery.
Teeth Extractions
Teeth extractions are a common procedure performed by oral surgeons, in particular wisdom teeth or canines that are impacted and have grown at an angle. Your dentist may recommend an oral surgeon if your tooth extraction is complex. This will be necessary if the tooth has broken below the gum line and an incision in the gum line may need to be made to remove it.
Dental Implants
Oral surgeons have comprehensive knowledge of the jawbone and mouth. Their extensive expertise on the safest method of implant placement ensures they are a good option for performing any dental implant procedure. They are also equipped to deal effectively with any complications that may arise, such as performing a bone graft or a tooth socket graft prior to dental implant surgery if the patient does not have enough bone to support their dental implant.
Facial Trauma
Oral surgeons treat injuries to the face and mouth, including minor tissue repairs and skin lacerations. Their expertise is also called upon to reconnect severed nerves and treat broken or fractured bones, including the jaw, cheeks, nose, and eye sockets.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
TMJ is a disorder affecting the joints of the jawbone that causes clicking, discomfort, and pain. There may be a variety of reasons for the problem, which an oral surgeon will investigate to find a diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment option.
Orthognathic Surgery
Oral surgeons carry out corrective jaw surgery in patients who have a misaligned bite that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Often, the surgeon will work alongside an orthodontist as braces are typically required to be worn before and after orthognathic surgery as part of the overall treatment plan.
Oncologic Surgery
Oncologic surgery is a procedure to remove tumors that have developed in the oral cavity, or on the face. These tumors may be cancerous or benign and the oral surgeon may work as part of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, to determine the best treatment modalities for each patient.
Reconstructive Surgery
Oral surgeons may carry out reconstructive surgery for birth defects, such as cleft palate, or following disease or trauma. They may also work with plastic surgeons to achieve the cosmetic or reconstructive appearances desired in the facial structure.
Oral surgery may be routine or extensive and may be undertaken in a dental office, or in a hospital environment, depending on the complexity of the case. Therefore, there is no need to be worried if you are referred to an oral surgeon as you will be in the best hands.
If you believe that you might need a Board-Certified Oral Surgeon, we are here to help. For more information about our board-certified oral surgeons at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery give our office a call at (980) 332-7990 to schedule an appointment.