When it comes to our oral health, seeking specialized care is sometimes necessary. While regular visits to the dentist are crucial for maintaining oral hygiene, there are times when a visit to an oral surgeon's office becomes necessary. Here are some of the key reasons why people visit an oral surgeon's office for specialized treatment.

1. Dental Implants

Missing teeth can significantly impact your self-esteem and make everyday activities, like eating and speaking, challenging. Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. An oral surgeon is well-equipped to perform implant placement procedures, ensuring a successful and long-lasting outcome. These titanium posts are surgically inserted into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth, which are custom-made to match your natural teeth. By visiting an oral surgeon, you can regain both confidence in your smile and the functionality of your teeth.

2. Corrective Jaw Surgery

In cases where facial and jaw irregularities affect both aesthetics and functionality, corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, may be required. Oral surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat these complex conditions. Whether you have an underbite, overbite, or crossbite, corrective jaw surgery can bring your jaws into proper alignment, improving your bite, facial balance, and overall oral health. An oral surgeon will collaborate with orthodontists to ensure comprehensive care, providing a long-term solution to your jaw-related concerns.

3. Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often cause problems due to their late eruption and lack of space in the mouth. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to a range of oral complications, including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Oral surgeons specialize in wisdom tooth extraction, utilizing their expertise to safely remove these troublesome teeth. Through a surgical procedure performed under local or general anesthesia, oral surgeons can prevent potential oral health issues, preserving the well-being of your teeth and gums.

While general dentists can address most of your dental needs, visiting an oral surgeon's office may be necessary for specialized care for certain oral health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it's estimated that approximately 34 million school hours are missed due to unplanned oral health issues. An oral surgeon can help you to prevent some of these issues. If you have a condition that requires specialized care from an oral surgeon, reach out to our team at Jay I. Swanson DDS, MD, FACS today to schedule an appointment.