Question 1

What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS)?

Accepted Answer

An OMS is a dental specialist with extensive hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after dental school. They are experts in treating a wide range of diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, and jaws. Learn more about the role of an OMS.

Question 2

What types of procedures does an oral surgeon perform?

Accepted Answer

They perform a wide variety of procedures, including difficult tooth extractions (like wisdom teeth), dental implant placement, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery, and treatment of facial trauma.

Question 3

Will I be asleep for my oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the procedure. Oral surgeons are trained and licensed to provide all levels of anesthesia, from local anesthetic to IV sedation ('twilight sleep') and general anesthesia, to ensure your comfort and safety.

Question 4

What are the main reasons for a tooth extraction?

Accepted Answer

A tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay, advanced gum disease, infection or abscess, crowding, or if it's impacted (stuck), which is common with wisdom teeth.

Question 5

What is the difference between a simple and a surgical extraction?

Accepted Answer

A simple extraction is for a tooth that is fully visible and can be removed with forceps. A surgical extraction is needed for teeth broken at the gum line or impacted teeth, requiring an incision in the gum. Read more about extractions and complications.

Question 6

What is an impacted wisdom tooth?

Accepted Answer

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that doesn't have enough room to erupt normally. It can grow at an angle, get stuck against another tooth, or remain trapped in the jawbone, often requiring surgical removal to prevent pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth.

Question 7

What is orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery?

Accepted Answer

Orthognathic surgery is performed to correct significant misalignments of the jaws and teeth. It can improve a patient's ability to chew, speak, and breathe, and can also dramatically enhance facial aesthetics.

Question 8

How do I manage pain and recovery after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, which typically include pain medication, using ice packs to reduce swelling, eating a soft diet, and maintaining gentle oral hygiene.

Question 9

What is a dental abscess and why does it require surgery?

Accepted Answer

A dental abscess is a serious infection that creates a pocket of pus. It requires a surgical procedure (either a root canal or an extraction) to drain the infection and remove its source from inside the tooth or gums.

Question 10

Can jaw surgery help with sleep apnea?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for certain types of obstructive sleep apnea, a procedure called maxillomandibular advancement can be performed. This surgery moves both the upper and lower jaws forward to open up the airway, providing a permanent solution to the condition.

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