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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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:
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
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.
