The Unexpected Procedures Covered by an Oral Surgeon
Posted on 3/15/2025 by Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
 Most people think of oral surgeons as tooth extractors, but their expertise goes far beyond removing wisdom teeth. Oral surgeons are highly trained dental professionals who perform a wide range of surgical procedures related to the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face.
While some procedures, like wisdom teeth removal, are widely known, others may surprise you. Let's delve into some unexpected procedures that fall under the scope of an oral surgeon.
1. Dental Implants
Missing teeth can affect your smile, confidence, and oral health. Dental implants offer a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. Oral surgeons place titanium posts into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. These posts then support crowns, bridges, or dentures, restoring your smile and functionality.
2. Bone Grafting
Sometimes, the jawbone may not be strong enough to support dental implants. In such cases, bone grafting procedures are performed to add volume and density to the jawbone. This allows for successful implant placement and long-term stability.
3. Oral Pathology
Oral surgeons diagnose and manage various oral pathologies, including cysts, tumors, and benign lesions. They perform biopsies to determine the nature of the growth and recommend appropriate treatment, which may involve surgical excision, medication, or other therapies.
4. Facial Trauma
Accidents or injuries can cause facial trauma, affecting the bones, soft tissues, and teeth. Oral surgeons are skilled in treating facial fractures, lacerations, and other injuries, restoring facial structure and function.
5. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders
The TMJ connects the jawbone to the skull and allows for jaw movement. TMJ disorders can cause pain, clicking, and difficulty chewing. Oral surgeons can diagnose and treat these disorders through various methods, including medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
6. Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway is blocked during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing and poor sleep quality. Oral surgeons can create custom oral appliances that reposition the jaw and improve airflow, alleviating sleep apnea symptoms.
7. Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Cleft lip and palate are birth defects that affect the formation of the lip and palate. Oral surgeons work with other specialists to perform corrective surgeries, restoring normal facial features and functionality.
Conclusion
Oral surgeons play a vital role in maintaining oral health and treating a wide range of conditions beyond tooth extraction. From dental implants and bone grafting to facial trauma and sleep apnea, their expertise extends to various surgical procedures. If you have concerns about your oral health or require specialized surgical care, consulting an oral surgeon is the right step towards a healthy and functional smile.
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