What Conditions Can an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Treat?
Posted on 10/15/2025 by South Valley Oral and Facial Surgery |
 When you think about oral health, you might picture a dentist cleaning your teeth or filling a cavity. But did you know that there's another type of dental professional who specializes in the surgical treatment of the mouth, face, and jaws? These experts are called oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly trained professionals who have completed dental school and then gone on to receive four to six additional years of surgical training in a hospital setting. This extensive training allows them to treat a wide range of conditions, from the simple to the complex.
Common Conditions Treated by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Here are some of the most common conditions that oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat:
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Wisdom teeth extraction: Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt, and they often don't have enough room to grow in properly. This can lead to impaction, crowding, and other problems. Oral surgeons can safely and effectively remove wisdom teeth to prevent future complications. |
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Dental implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Oral surgeons are experts in implant placement and restoration. |
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Facial trauma: Accidents, sports injuries, and other events can cause facial trauma, including broken bones, lacerations, and other injuries. Oral surgeons have the skills and experience to repair facial trauma and restore function and appearance. |
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Oral cancer: Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect the lips, tongue, mouth, and throat. Oral surgeons play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. |
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TMJ disorders: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders can cause pain, clicking, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Oral surgeons can diagnose and treat TMJ disorders using a variety of methods. |
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Cleft lip and palate: Cleft lip and palate are birth defects that occur when the tissues of the lip and palate don't fuse together properly during pregnancy. Oral surgeons work with a team of specialists to provide comprehensive care for children with cleft lip and palate, including surgery, speech therapy, and orthodontics. |
Additional Conditions
In addition to the conditions listed above, oral and maxillofacial surgeons also treat a wide range of other conditions, including:
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Dental and facial infections |
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Congenital defects of the face and jaws |
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Salivary gland disorders |
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Sleep apnea |
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Facial cosmetic surgery |
How to Find an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
If you are experiencing any of the conditions listed above, or if you have any concerns about your oral health, you should see an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. You can find an oral surgeon in your area by visiting the website of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS).
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly skilled and experienced professionals who can provide you with the best possible care for your oral health needs. If you are looking for a surgeon who can help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile, look no further than an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
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