Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
At Orthodontic Specialists in Florida, we offer orthodontics for people of all ages in West Bradenton, East Bradenton, Parrish, and surrounding areas. Your dentist may refer you to our private, family-owned practice, or you may get in touch with us directly. We treat all ages and address all needs related to orthodontics. In some cases, oral and/or maxillofacial surgery may be necessary before orthodontic treatment can begin. Either way, you may be interested in learning more about oral and maxillofacial surgery services.
History of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
The field of dentistry has seen remarkable evolution over the last several decades. Surgeons can do more now than ever to resolve problems and provide treatments that require surgery. Today, it’s possible to reconstruct jaws and facial structures using methods that weren’t possible before modern technological advancements.
The advancements in this field were especially spurred on by the needs of World War I soldiers, who returned from battle with severe facial injuries. Many treatments we still use today were conceived during the post-war era. In the mid-20th century, groundbreaking developments materialized when surgeons began integrating medical treatments with dentistry. Very high standards have been set for oral and maxillofacial surgery, and these protocols remain an integral component of modern healthcare.
What is The Difference Between Oral Surgery And Maxillofacial Surgery?
Although both oral and maxillofacial surgery can be done by an orthodontic surgeon, and they both have to do with surgical procedures involving oral health, they differ in many ways.
Oral surgery is done to treat oral conditions relating to the gums, teeth, and jaws. Maxillofacial surgery treats conditions specifically related to the mouth and the jaw, neck, or face.
Common Procedures and Techniques
The field of oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses a broad scope of surgical procedures designed to treat issues concerning the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. One of the most familiar of these is the extraction of wisdom teeth that have yet to erupt. This procedure is often needed when they are impacted or are going to overcrowd the mouth cavity. Surgical wisdom tooth extraction has become so commonplace that it can be done in the orthodontist’s office.
Another procedure that has become quite common is dental implant surgery. This is a procedure where an oral surgeon inserts titanium implants into the jawbone. The implants provide the foundation for an abutment, which will hold the crown of the implant. This groundbreaking procedure restores function and aesthetics, allowing the patient to have a permanent faux tooth that looks as real as their own natural teeth.
Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a more complex procedure aimed at correcting misalignments of the jaw. This surgery improves facial appearance and enhances chewing, speaking, and breathing functions. It often involves a collaborative approach with orthodontists to ensure optimal alignment of teeth and jaws.
Reconstructive surgery following trauma or cancer removal is another vital aspect of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Surgeons use advanced techniques to rebuild facial structures, often utilizing bone grafts and specialized flaps. This restoration is crucial, not only for aesthetic reasons but also for functional rehabilitation.
Finally, oral and maxillofacial surgeons often perform cleft lip and palate surgery, addressing these common congenital deformities to improve speech, hearing, and eating abilities, significantly enhancing the patient’s quality of life.
These procedures highlight the technical proficiency and diverse skills required in oral and maxillofacial surgery, reflecting its vital role in both medical and dental health. In short, oral and maxillofacial surgery is similar, yet different.
To better understand each kind of surgery, here are some examples of oral surgeries that are commonly done.
Examples of Oral Surgery:
- removing excess tissue between two teeth when braces treatment is going to be done
- removing wisdom teeth
- surgery for dental implants
Examples of Maxillofacial Surgery:
Here are some examples of maxillofacial surgery:
- cleft palate repair
- jaw bone repair after facial trauma
- chin implant
Scope and Specializations of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgeons
Beneath the umbrella of the field of maxillofacial and oral surgery are certain specialties. Just like in other fields of medicine, these surgeons often specialize in treating certain conditions. For example, there is an orthognathic surgeon who specializes in jaw misalignments. Most commonly, these may be related to TMJ (temporomandibular joints), which can cause excruciating pain for the patient. Another area of specialty is trauma surgery, where oral and maxillofacial surgeons focus on treating victims of accidents that injure the face and jaw, either in a functional or aesthetic way. There are many other specialty areas that are addressed in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Each of these specializations requires a deep understanding of both dental and medical aspects, highlighting the field’s comprehensive and multifaceted nature.
Also, note that, while there are surgeons who specialize in certain areas of maxillofacial and oral surgery, these surgeons are still able to perform procedures outside their area of specialty.
Frequently Asked Questions about Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Bradenton and Parrish, FL
What is oral and maxillofacial surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field of dentistry that involves surgical treatment of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Common procedures include wisdom tooth extraction, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, and trauma reconstruction. Our team in Bradenton and Parrish, FL, is experienced in a wide range of these procedures.
What is the difference between oral surgery and maxillofacial surgery?
Oral surgery primarily focuses on treatments related to the gums, teeth, and jaw, while maxillofacial surgery can also address complex conditions of the face, neck, and jaw. Our Bradenton and Parrish, FL, specialists are trained to handle a variety of cases, ensuring comprehensive care.
What are common oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures in Bradenton and Parrish, FL?
Our specialists in Bradenton and Parrish commonly perform procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, cleft palate repair, and reconstructive surgery. Each procedure is designed to improve both function and appearance, providing lasting benefits.
When might oral and maxillofacial surgery be needed before orthodontic treatment?
In some cases, surgery may be required to correct jaw or tooth alignment issues before beginning orthodontic treatment. For example, if you’re in Bradenton or Parrish, FL, and need to address jaw misalignment or impacted teeth, our team can provide the necessary surgical solutions to support your orthodontic care.
What is the recovery process like after oral and maxillofacial surgery in Bradenton or Parrish?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. Most patients in Bradenton and Parrish, FL, can return to normal activities within a few weeks, though complex surgeries may require longer healing times. Our team provides clear post-surgery care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Can maxillofacial surgeons perform non-surgical treatments?
Yes, our maxillofacial surgeons in Bradenton and Parrish are also trained to manage non-surgical treatments for conditions like TMJ disorders and oral infections. We work closely with local orthodontists to ensure comprehensive care for each patient.
Why choose Orthodontic Specialists in Bradenton and Parrish, FL, for oral and maxillofacial surgery?
Our practice in Bradenton and Parrish, FL, is family-owned and provides personalized, high-quality care. We are dedicated to offering patients a full range of orthodontic and surgical services, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment in a supportive and comfortable environment.
At Orthodontic Specialists in Florida, our private, family-owned practice is part of an important field of specialists who are trained and licensed to treat a broad range of orthodontic needs. You can count on us to make sure that you receive comprehensive care that addresses all of your orthodontic-related issues, including oral and maxillofacial surgery needs. Contact us today for more information or to book a consultation.
