A Quick Guide to Understanding Maxillofacial Surgery

May 1, 2024

More people are choosing to have maxillofacial surgery these past few years. This is thanks to the growing awareness of this special branch of surgery.

Maxillofacial surgery can address a wide range of facial issues. Some patients undergo oral surgery to correct problems with speaking or chewing. Others have maxillofacial surgery for reconstructive purposes.

There are many things to know about maxillofacial surgery. This guide will provide an overview of what it involves and who may need it.

What is Maxillofacial Surgery?

Maxillofacial surgery is a specialized branch of surgery. It revolves around diagnosing and treating issues in the head, face, and neck. It also focuses on injuries in the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.

The practice is also known as oral and maxillofacial surgery or OMS. It’s one of the nine dental specialties recognized around the world.

Surgeons specializing in this field are very skilled professionals. They undergo advanced training beyond what they receive in dental or medical school. They're also trained to perform various surgeries. These surgeons can do minor procedures like wisdom tooth extraction. But they are also adept at doing major reconstructions, like jaw realignment.

What is The Role of Maxillofacial Surgery in Dentistry?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery provides a conduit between medicine and dentistry. An oral maxillofacial surgeon works hand in hand with other specialists. He or she can work with orthodontists, prosthodontists, and ENT surgeons.

They can partner up to create a comprehensive treatment plan for patients. Let’s say a patient needs to have dental implants but has insufficient bone in their jaw. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon could do bone grafting procedures. These will help with the implants.

Maxillofacial surgery is often crucial in restoring facial appearance and function. It provides comprehensive solutions to complex problems, like correcting jaw alignment.

Maxillofacial surgery procedures do more than enhance oral health. They can also improve a patient’s quality of life. These surgeries can help patients dealing with severe trauma or congenital defects. They can also help manage debilitating conditions like TMJ disorders.

What are Common Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Procedures?

There’s a wide range of maxillofacial procedures offered today. These can cover everything from outpatient procedures to complicated surgeries. Here are some of the top procedures done today:

Wisdom Tooth Extraction. The Academy of Maxillofacial Surgeons said 90% of people have impacted wisdom teeth. These can cause pain or infection. Impacted wisdom teeth need surgical removal. An oral maxillofacial surgeon knows how to handle complicated wisdom tooth extractions. Especially when the teeth’s position could damage the patient’s nerves or jawbones.

Dental Implants: Maxillofacial surgeons are often involved in placing dental implants for patients. They can also perform grafting procedures. These can happen if the patient’s jawbone doesn’t have enough density or volume to support the implants. Bone grafting can help build up the bone and prepare it for dental implants.

Jaw Realignment/ Orthognathic Surgery: Maxillofacial surgeons work with orthodontists to correct jaw misalignments. An orthognathic surgery improves bite function and jaw alignment. This then helps the patient chew, speak, and breathe. Surgery is often necessary when orthodontic treatment alone can’t correct the issue.

Facial Trauma Repair. There are many cases of facial bone injuries. These can result in fractures and other damages. An oral maxillofacial surgeon can realign and stabilize these bones. They will use plates, screws, and wires to ensure the patient regains normal function.

Tumor or Cyst Removal. Oral maxillofacial surgeons can also diagnose and treat oral cancers, cysts, and tumors. Their skill is vital for removing abnormal growths. They also ensure there’s minimal damage to the surrounding tissues.

To Conclude

Maxillofacial surgery plays a crucial role in treating various face and mouth issues. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are often trained in many procedures. They can do simple wisdom tooth extractions to life-changing reconstructive procedures. These specialists use their advanced training to address challenging medical and dental issues.

Ensuring You Face Life with Confidence

Are you looking for expert oral or dental care? You can trust the experienced team at Stone Surgical Arts. We’re the premier facial cosmetic surgery clinic in Texas. Our practice offers the best beauty treatments. We use the latest surgical techniques and equipment. We also have a team of skilled maxillofacial surgeons. They provide personalized solutions to dental implants or reconstructive jaw surgery. Contact us today at (817) 918-3666 to schedule a consultation. You can also message us here.