The surgical management of soft and hard tissues is at the core of what oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to do. Dentoalveolar surgeries are ones that involve the alveolar bone and the supporting structures. This can include removal of impacted teeth (such as wisdom teeth), bone grafting (in preparation for dental implants), removal of cysts or […]
Continue ReadingFrena are small folds (also called “bands”) of tissue located in the mouth: under the tongue, inside the upper lip, inside the lower lip and connecting the cheeks to the gums. A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure to loosen or release these bands. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) typically performs a frenectomy to […]
Continue ReadingSafety Tips Take your medication only as directed. Carefully note the time a medication was administered and consider writing it down. Do not cut pills in half or crush them to make them easier to swallow – unless directed by your OMS. This can change the way the medication is released into your system and […]
Continue ReadingWhile cleft lip and palate are two of the most common craniofacial anomalies, there are other birth defects and conditions that may affect the look or function of a child’s head and face. Children with any head or orbital abnormality should be evaluated by a specialist such as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). Parents with concerns […]
Continue ReadingHealthy teeth and dental implants require both gum tissue and bone for support. Healthy gum tissue (soft tissue) forms a protective barrier. This barrier protects against oral bacteria and stresses from daily functions such as chewing and tooth brushing. Without adequate gum tissue and bone (hard tissue), teeth and dental implants may become compromised. This […]
Continue ReadingWhile wisdom teeth are often impacted, other teeth can be impacted as well. An impacted tooth is simply one that has been blocked from entering the mouth. Because of the placement and difficulties of caring for wisdom teeth, many oral and maxillofacial surgeons recommend their removal. Other impacted teeth can be brought into proper position through an […]
Continue ReadingOral Pathology vs. Oral Cancer The discovery of a cyst or sore during an oral self-exam may be upsetting. If you discover a suspicious lump, sore or lesion, promptly make an appointment for an examination by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Most oral pathologies are not cancerous, but each should be diagnosed by an OMS. […]
Continue ReadingCulture of Safety in the OMS Office At its core, culture of safety in the oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) office means patient safety is the number one priority. The policies and actions of the doctors and staff in the practice are concentrated on that primary objective. Patient safety is the number one priority. Development […]
Continue ReadingTMJ and Facial Pain The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. The joint permits the lower jaw to move and function. The TMJ is the most constantly used joint in the body. TMJ disorders are not uncommon. Individuals with a TMJ […]
Continue ReadingWhile it might be common knowledge when and why to visit a general practitioner or a dentist, what prompts a patient to visit an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS)? As experts in face, mouth and jaw surgery, OMSs treat a range of conditions, including: Many people have their wisdom teeth removed by an OMS. Dental implants are placed […]
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