Dental and oral surgeons somewhat perform the same jobs. This can make you wonder, “What does an oral surgeon do?” Although a dentist can resolve many dental issues for you. Sometimes, these dental issues can surpass their expertise. This is when your dentist refers you to an oral surgeon so you can get the special care you need.
The Difference Between Dentists and Oral Surgeons
You probably know what dentists do—cleanings, exams, pulling teeth, filling cavities, and more. Oral surgeons go a step further and are trained in dental surgery. This involves cutting into the gums or working on the jawbone. For example, a dentist can pull a tooth, but an oral surgeon can remove an impacted tooth. They can cut into the gum or place a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
Whether someone wants to become a dentist or an oral surgeon, their education starts the same. First, they earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, like pre-med or pre-dentistry. After that, they go to dental school, which usually takes four years.
During those four years, they study subjects like pathology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and oral surgery. They also get hands-on training under the supervision of a dentist or at a dental school. After completing dental school, general dentists take a licensure exam. Once they pass, they can start practicing as dentists.
Oral surgeons, on the other hand, go through an additional four to six years of specialized surgical training in an accredited residency program. After finishing the residency, they must pass an exam to become board-certified. In simple terms, oral surgeons have the same education as dentists, plus another four to six years of specialized training in surgery.
When to See an Oral Surgeon?
Both dentists and oral surgeons have the same goal: restoring your oral health. However, you must see an oral and maxillofacial surgeon if you need:
- Dental Implants
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants might be a good option for you. These are artificial tooth roots dental professionals surgically place into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon has the special training to perform dental implant surgery and ensure it goes well. - Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, fixes problems with the jawbones and realigns the jaws and teeth. This can improve how your face looks and functions. If you have a misaligned bite or facial asymmetry that braces alone fail to fix, you might need this surgery. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are experts in performing this complex procedure. - Facial Injuries
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are skilled in treating facial injuries like broken jaws, cheekbones, and eye sockets. They also treat soft tissue injuries to the mouth, face, and neck. If you have a facial injury, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon can provide complete care to restore both function and appearance. - Oral Cancer
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons play a key role in diagnosing and treating oral cancer. They can perform biopsies, remove tumors, and do reconstructive surgery to restore function and appearance.
Final Word
If you go to a dentist and they refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon instead, this might make you think, “Why? What does an oral surgeon do?” The answer is apparent in this situation. Your issue turned out to be beyond their expertise.
Visit our oral and maxillofacial surgeons at Katy Cypress Oral Surgery. Our board-certified doctors are trained to handle any complexities with your skull, jaw, or neck. Dial (281) 667-0607 to book an appointment.