If you believe you may have obstructive sleep apnea, a visit to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) is recommended for a complete examination and an accurate diagnosis. At your first visit, the doctor will take a medical history and perform a head and neck examination looking for problems that might contribute to sleep-related breathing […]
Continue ReadingAbout 650,000 people are diagnosed with oral, head and neck cancers each year, resulting in more than 330,000 deaths each year. Regular oral cancer self-exams and routine oral, head and neck cancer screenings for at-risk patients can aid in early detection and improve survival rates. Oral Cancer Risk Factors and Survival Rates Many patients are aware that […]
Continue ReadingPrevention is the best policy. Because avoiding injury is always best, AAOMS advocates the use of protective mouth guards and appropriate masks and helmets for everyone who participates in athletic pursuits at any level. You don’t have to play at the professional level to sustain a serious head injury. New innovations in helmet, mouth guard […]
Continue ReadingChin surgery (genioplasty) is a facial cosmetic surgery that can increase or reduce the length and projection of the chin. There are two basic approaches to chin surgery: The chin bone is moved and fixed in a new position with wires and screws. An implant is used to add size to a receding chin. While patients may […]
Continue ReadingCheekbone implants (malar augmentation) can be inserted as a part of a facial cosmetic surgery plan, creating the appearance of higher, more prominent cheekbones. Cheekbone implants can be used to improve facial balance, give a more youthful appearance through fuller cheeks or restore forms lost due to trauma or pathology. Patients seeking malar augmentation who […]
Continue ReadingCosmetic facial surgery has long been performed to correct physical malformations resulting from disease, injury and congenital craniofacial anomalies. Today, a growing number of men and women are choosing cosmetic facial surgery to improve their appearance and reduce the signs of aging. Because of their background in surgery of the face, oral and maxillofacial surgeons […]
Continue ReadingIf someone close to you has spoken of your loud snoring and has noticed that you often wake up abruptly, gasping for air, you should consult your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). These could be signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The risks of untreated OSA include heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, […]
Continue ReadingThird molars, more commonly known as wisdom teeth, enter the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. They are the last teeth to develop and erupt into the mouth. What Is an Impacted Tooth? When a tooth is unable to fully enter the mouth, it is usually “impacted”. In general, impacted teeth are […]
Continue ReadingIf you or a loved one suffer a facial or mouth injury requiring a trip to the emergency room, you should consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. With their background and training, OMSs are the specialists uniquely qualified to deal with these types of injuries. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are experts in treating […]
Continue ReadingOral and maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists often work together to give patients a functional and aesthetic smile. Your orthodontist may refer you to an OMS for a variety of procedures to help ensure your upper and lower jaws work together to allow you to breathe, chew and speak properly. You may be referred to an […]
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