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Richard Kramer, Gary Koterwas, and everyone at Oral and Facial Surgery are pleased to welcome our new associate, Dr. Chris Hackett, who will be joining the practice on August 18, 2025. Coming from a family of doctors who have dedicated themselves to the care of our community, he is excited to fulfill a long-term dream of returning to his hometown to practice.

Dr. Hackett has a strong interest in dentoalveolar surgery and dental implants. He is also looking forward to providing care for dental and facial trauma, orthognathic surgery, TMD management, and the full scope of the specialty.

Dr. Hackett completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. He earned his DDS from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and his undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University, both with high honors.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Dr. Hackett enjoys spending time with his wife, Caroline, along with family and friends. He also enjoys traveling, cooking, playing soccer, and giving back to the local community.

Why Now Might Be the Right Time for Oral Surgery

As the weather warms up and calendars start to fill with summer plans—vacations, weddings, and time off from school—it’s worth thinking ahead if you’ve been putting off oral surgery.

Spring is often an ideal time for procedures like wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or corrective jaw surgery. Recovery can be more comfortable when you’re not juggling holiday schedules or sweltering in peak summer heat, and a little planning now means you’ll be fully healed and ready to enjoy everything summer brings.

It’s also a good time for students or teachers who have a break coming up and want to avoid disruptions during the school year.

If you’ve been considering treatment, now’s a good time to talk through your options, timing, and any questions you may have.

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Learn more about our dental services and schedule your consultation today.  All of our surgeons at Oral and Facial Surgery are board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and, with locations in Hagerstown, Maryland and Chambersburg, you’re sure to find an office nearby. Call us in Maryland at 301-791-1700 or 717-264-7828 in Pennsylvania. We look forward to answering your questions!

The information provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition and is not meant to take the place of professional medical advice. If you think you have a medical problem, please seek the advice of a physician. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.

What Can I Expect During My Visit with an Oral Surgeon?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS) are specialists who diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions related to the face, mouth, and jaws. Their training covers both medical and dental aspects, allowing them to handle complex cases with expertise in both surgical and non-surgical solutions. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common procedures performed by a maxillofacial surgeon and what you can expect when visiting our practice.

Common Procedures in Maxillofacial Surgery

1. Tooth Extractions and Wisdom Tooth Removal
   Removing impacted wisdom teeth or teeth affected by disease is one of the most common procedures OMFS perform. These extractions are done to alleviate pain, prevent misalignment, or remove infections.
2. Dental Implant Surgery
   When teeth are missing or need replacing, maxillofacial surgeons perform dental implant procedures. Implants act as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth, offering a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
3. Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
   For patients with jaw misalignment, speech issues, or bite problems, corrective jaw surgery helps improve function and facial symmetry. This procedure can also alleviate breathing problems related to structural jaw issues.
4. Facial Trauma Surgery
   OMFS are skilled in repairing facial fractures and injuries resulting from accidents or trauma. This includes stabilizing and reconstructing bones, nerves, and soft tissues to restore function and appearance.
5. Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ)
   Chronic jaw pain and TMJ disorders can severely impact quality of life. Oral surgeons can provide both surgical and non-surgical treatments to alleviate pain and improve jaw function.
6. Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery
   Maxillofacial surgeons also play a vital role in diagnosing and surgically treating oral cancers. Early intervention by a specialist can improve outcomes significantly.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When visiting a maxillofacial surgeon, your initial consultation is focused on understanding your concerns, symptoms, and medical history. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Comprehensive Evaluation
   The surgeon will perform an examination and, if necessary, request imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to gain a full understanding of your condition. This is critical to planning an effective treatment.
2. Customized Treatment Plan
   Based on the evaluation, the surgeon will discuss possible treatment options, including surgical and non-surgical choices. You’ll receive a detailed explanation of each option, along with potential risks and expected recovery times.
3. Sedation and Pain Management
   For most procedures, OMFS offers various forms of sedation to ensure your comfort during surgery. Pain management options will be discussed thoroughly so you can prepare for recovery at home.
4. Recovery Guidance
   After your procedure, you’ll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up care. The goal is to support healing, manage discomfort, and minimize the risk of complications.

Whether you’re seeking help for a specific dental issue or have a more complex facial concern, a maxillofacial surgeon can provide expert, compassionate care. Understanding the types of procedures and what to expect during your visit can make the experience smoother and help you feel more comfortable about your treatment.

All of our surgeons at Oral and Facial Surgery are board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and, with locations in Hagerstown, Maryland and Chambersburg, you’re sure to find an office nearby. Call us in Maryland at 301-791-1700 or 717-264-7828 in Pennsylvania. We look forward to answering your questions.

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The information provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition and is not meant to take the place of professional medical advice. If you think you have a medical problem, please seek the advice of a physician. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.

Why Oral Health Matters for Surgery Outcomes

October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a perfect time to emphasize the importance of oral health—not just for a bright smile, but for your overall well-being. For patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgery, good dental hygiene plays a crucial role in ensuring successful outcomes and a smooth recovery.

Why Oral Health is Essential for Surgery

Before any surgical procedure, whether it’s wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or corrective jaw surgery, a clean and healthy mouth reduces the risk of complications like infections. Bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream during surgery, potentially leading to more serious health concerns. By maintaining good dental hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, you can minimize these risks and help your body heal faster after surgery.

Pre-Surgery Dental Hygiene Tips

Here are a few tips to improve your oral health before surgery:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
• Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: This can help reduce the bacteria in your mouth, further lowering the risk of infection.
• Visit Your Dentist: A professional cleaning and exam before surgery can catch any underlying issues that may interfere with your recovery.

Post-Surgery Care and Hygiene

After surgery, it’s just as important to continue good dental hygiene habits. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, but typically, gentle brushing, avoiding the surgical site, and using a prescribed mouth rinse will help keep your mouth clean while healing.

Your Oral Health, Your Responsibility

Taking care of your teeth and gums before and after surgery isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about protecting your health. This National Dental Hygiene Month, commit to maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits to support your surgical outcomes and long-term well-being.

At Oral and Facial Surgery, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us for more information on how to best prepare for your oral or maxillofacial surgery. All of our surgeons at Oral and Facial Surgery are board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and, with locations in Hagerstown, Maryland and Chambersburg, you’re sure to find an office nearby. Call us in Maryland at 301-791-1700 or 717-264-7828 in Pennsylvania. We look forward to answering your questions!

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The information provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition and is not meant to take the place of professional medical advice. If you think you have a medical problem, please seek the advice of a physician. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.