What's the difference between a dentist and an oral surgeon?
Both are capable of performing tooth extractions and other basic surgeries. However, oral surgeons often perform more complex surgeries and extractions, such as wisdom teeth. In the case of a simple tooth extraction or the placement of an implant, you may have the option of seeing the dentist or an oral surgeon. Both oral surgeons and dentists attend the same four years of dental school and earn a doctorate in dental surgery or a doctorate in dental medicine.
Understanding the Differences between Oral Surgeons and cosmetic Surgeons
Oral surgeons and cosmetic surgeons are two distinct specialties in the field of medicine, with different areas of focus and training. While oral surgeons are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage dental and health problems related to the mouth, face, jaws, and surrounding soft tissue, As mentioned by Dr. Thomas J. Steckbeck cosmetic dentistry specialist dentist at Steckbeck Family Dentistry in Indianapolis, IN. "cosmetic surgeons specialize in aesthetic surgical procedures to enhance the appearance of the face, body, and other areas of the body". While both specialties may perform facial procedures such as rhinoplasty or facelifts, oral surgeons typically perform more functional surgeries such as jaw realignment, bone grafting, and dental implant placement. It is important to understand the differences between these two specialties in order to choose the right type of surgeon for your specific needs.
Understanding the Differences between Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and General Dentists for Optimal Oral Health Treatment
However, oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive specialized training in an additional four-year surgical hospital residency program together with medical professionals. They learn to diagnose, treat, and manage dental and health problems related to the mouth, face, jaws, and surrounding soft tissue. This publication will describe them to ensure that you get the right treatment for your particular oral health condition. For preventive maintenance, general dentists perform procedures that keep the gums, teeth, tongue, and mouth healthy.
Understanding the Role of General Dentists in Preventive Dental Care and Treatment for Common Oral Health Problems
Dentists also encourage their patients to practice good dental care habits, such as flossing, brushing their teeth and cleaning their teeth, which can prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Like a family doctor who can treat a variety of health problems, a general dentist can diagnose and treat most basic dental problems. Like the rest of medicine, dentistry is a very broad field and each dental condition requires a specific type of dental professional. Oral surgeons can also perform soft tissue biopsies, remove tumors, perform jaw realignment surgery, repair soft tissue, or place implants.
The complexities affecting the upper jaw (including the hard palate, nasal cavities, and eye sockets) require additional studies by oral surgeons. By having a dentist attend to your oral health needs, you will receive regular and consistent care every time you visit. At the general dentist's office, you'll receive a dental cleaning, x-rays, and a thorough evaluation for dental problems. In addition, for routine exams and cleanings or for simple procedures, such as a filling or crown, a general dentist can meet your needs.
When to Seek Oral Surgery: Understanding the Role of Oral Surgeons in Complex Dental Procedures
Dentists refer patients to oral surgeons for more complex surgeries and procedures involving the mouth, jaw, or even the face. Technically referred to as 26% oral maxillofacial surgeons, oral surgeons are dental specialists who receive four to six more years of education than general dentists. General dentists provide primary dental care for all patients and perform routine oral health care procedures that are both restorative and preventive. By visiting a general dentist for regular checkups, you can overcome this anxiety and find that there is nothing to worry about.
