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If you need a dental checkup, regular maintenance, or routine procedures, your general dentist is a good choice. However, even the most qualified dentists can’t perform every treatment related to your mouth. Serious conditions, trauma, or complicated procedures may require the help of an oral surgeon.
One very common reason you might visit an oral surgeon is to get your wisdom teeth removed. Once they erupt, usually during young adulthood, many people’s mouths are not large enough to comfortably contain the new teeth. Or, the wisdom teeth may become impacted and unable to erupt successfully, therefore requiring surgical extraction. If you have pain the back of your mouth, ask your dentist if your wisdom teeth might be the culprit. If so, get a referral to a reputable oral surgeon.
Car accidents, sports injuries, and other trauma can also be responsible for damage that requires oral surgery. Facial, jaw, and teeth damage can each cause painful issues. Most oral surgeons are qualified in performing reconstructive surgery to restore the function and appearance of your mouth and features.
If your dentist diagnoses a mouth cyst, an oral surgeon is often the best choice in having it removed. Some dentists are qualified in this type of procedure, but many refer patients to oral surgeons with more training and experience. This is especially true when anesthesia is needed for the procedure.
Dental implants are another reason to see an oral surgeon, who has greater knowledge and proficiency in this method of replacing missing teeth. Implants require a titanium rod to be surgically placed in your jaw, followed by a crown on top to complete the restoration. Most oral surgeons perform implants often because they are a popular choice today.
When you have oral health issues, you should usually see your general dentist first and will be referred to an oral surgeon if necessary. Don’t hesitate to follow through on this recommendation to get the treatment you need to maintain good oral health.
