Description

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) is a specialized field of surgery that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of conditions and diseases affecting the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. This branch of surgery bridges both dentistry and medicine, requiring a combination of dental expertise and advanced surgical skills. Key Areas of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: 1. Dental Implant Surgery Dental Implants: OMS specialists are often involved in the surgical placement of dental implants. This involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement root for missing teeth. The process includes pre-surgical evaluations, bone grafting (if needed), and long-term follow-up care. Bone Grafting: In cases where the jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss or injury, bone grafting can rebuild the bone structure before implants can be placed. 2. Wisdom Teeth Extraction Impacted Wisdom Teeth & Complicated Extractions: One of the most common surgeries performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons is the removal of impacted wisdom teeth. These are the third molars at the back of the mouth that often don't fully erupt. 3. Jaw and Facial Reconstruction Orthognathic Surgery: This is surgery to correct jaw abnormalities that affect the alignment of the teeth and the bite. Issues like an underbite, overbite, or crossbite are often treated with this procedure. Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery: OMS professionals play a key role in the surgical repair of cleft lips and palates, conditions where there is a gap or split in the upper lip and/or roof of the mouth (palate). Trauma Surgery: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat traumatic facial injuries such as fractures to the jaw, cheekbones, or nose. 4. Oral Cancer and Tumor Removal Oral Cancer Surgery: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are essential in diagnosing and treating oral cancers. Surgical procedures often involve removing cancerous tumors or lesions from the mouth, tongue, lips, gums, or jawbone. Reconstructive Surgery: After tumor removal, reconstructive surgery is often necessary to restore facial appearance and function, especially if large portions of tissue need to be removed. 5. TMJ Disorders (Temporomandibular Joint) TMJ Dysfunction: The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. Disorders in this joint can cause pain, limited jaw movement, or clicking sounds. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat these issues through conservative methods, such as physical therapy or splints, as well as more advanced interventions like arthroscopy or joint replacement. 6. Pathology of the Oral and Facial Regions OMS specialists diagnose and treat benign and malignant conditions affecting the soft and hard tissues of the mouth and face. This includes conditions such as: Benign Tumors and Cysts: Removal of non-cancerous growths that can develop in the mouth, jaw, or salivary glands. Salivary Gland Surgery: Surgeries to address conditions like salivary gland infections, stones, or tumors. 7. Facial Aesthetic Surgery Cosmetic Facial Surgery: Some oral and maxillofacial surgeons are also trained in cosmetic surgery and perform procedures to enhance facial appearance. These may include facial lifts, eyelid surgery, and chin or cheek augmentation. Rhinoplasty: Although typically performed by plastic surgeons, some oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained in nose reshaping procedures, particularly when there are functional issues related to breathing (e.g., septoplasty). 8. Reconstructive Surgery After Trauma or Birth Defects Trauma Reconstruction: After facial injuries or fractures (e.g., from accidents), oral and maxillofacial surgeons reconstruct bone structures, such as the jaw or cheekbones, and repair soft tissue, including the skin and muscles. Congenital Deformities: Conditions such as cleft lip and palate, hemifacial microsomia (underdevelopment of one side of the face), or other congenital malformations may require extensive reconstructive procedures. 9. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery TMJ Disorders: These conditions can lead to pain, clicking, or difficulty in opening the mouth. Oral surgeons can treat severe TMJ issues with surgical intervention, including realignment of the joint or replacement. When to See an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: When you experience severe pain or discomfort in the mouth, jaw, or face that is not alleviated by routine dental care. When you have an injury or trauma to the mouth, teeth, or face. If you need oral surgery for dental implants or tooth extractions, especially for wisdom teeth. For a biopsy or evaluation of a suspicious growth or lesion in the mouth or face. If you have TMJ dysfunction or other jaw issues that cause pain or difficulty with chewing and speaking. When orthognathic surgery is needed to correct a significant jaw misalignment.

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