Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Specialists:
Maxillofacial surgeons, sometimes called oral and maxillofacial surgeons, are trained to handle a wide variety of conditions and injuries that affect the head, neck, mouth, jaw, and face.
Why do you need to see them?
There are a few reasons you might see a maxillofacial surgeon. Your dentist or doctor may refer you to them, or if you are injured. they may be one of your emergency care doctors. Here are a few reasons why people end up seeing a maxillofacial surgeon.
Skeletal Problems
Most maxillofacial surgeons work at least in part to help correct skeletal problems such as misaligned jaws. If you have chronic temporomandibular joint pain, known as TMJ, your dentist may refer you to a maxillofacial surgeon.
Facial, Oral, or Neck Cancer
Cancers of the face, neck, and jaw are often removed by maxillofacial surgeons. These specialists have the training to remove the tumour without damaging the delicate nerves that run throughout your head and neck.
Reconstructive Surgery
If you get in an accident and injure your face, you may end up getting maxillofacial surgery. Some of these surgeons specialize in reconstructive surgery to repair broken jaws, cheekbones, and teeth. Maxillofacial surgeons can also insert dental implants to replace teeth that are lost entirely.
Cosmetic Surgery
Finally, maxillofacial surgeons can also treat cosmetic problems. If you are interested in getting dental implants or simply changing the profile of your face, you may end up working with one of these doctors to achieve your appearance goals.
What do they do?
Maxillofacial surgeons are qualified to treat a number of conditions related to the head and neck area, including:
- Misaligned jaws
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Oral reconstructive surgery
- Cancers of the head and neck
- Dental implants
These surgeons are also trained in anesthesia and pain control, with a focus on anesthesia that allows you to walk out of the office at the end of your appointment.
In general, maxillofacial surgeons perform surgeries to correct problems or make cosmetic changes. These surgeries are generally outpatient procedures. They will also provide you with a course for recovery after the surgery and may offer follow-up appointments.
Physician consultation is a good opportunity and you should be prepared for it.
- Carry all necessary medical records for the discussion. It helps in better understanding your heart condition and avoids repetition of diagnostic tests.
- Make sure you discuss your past medical history, surgical history, family history, and medications that you are taking.
- Discuss about your lifestyle habits, dietary habits and also about your profession. Your lifestyle and nature of job may be associated with the risk for cardiac diseases.