Have you been referred to a specialist in maxillofacial surgery?
Dentists, orthodontists and doctors in Richmond, Indiana, typically make these referrals when a patient requires expert care to correct an issue with the mouth, teeth or jaws. Surgical treatment can address functional and aesthetic concerns resulting from injuries, diseases, disorders and congenital conditions.
Maxillofacial procedures can be invasive – this form of treatment is surgery, after all – so you’ll need to consult with a skilled, board-certified Richmond maxillofacial surgeon to determine the best course of action. But, reading the following may prove helpful.
Who Performs Maxillofacial Surgery?
Every maxillofacial surgeon starts the journey to board certification with four years of dental school. This is followed by four to six years of hands-on, hospital-based surgical training, after which comes testing and an arduous peer review process. Along the way, they might also study to become specialists in oral surgery – and now you know why many are considered oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
What Procedures do Maxillofacial Surgeons Complete?
Board-certified specialists in maxillofacial surgery – particularly those who also have board certification in oral surgery – are skilled in a range of procedures designed to improve function, treat disease, relieve pain and alleviate facial deformities. Many surgeries also enhance facial appearance, but that’s not the main goal.
Richmond maxillofacial surgeons assist patients in resolving many different problems. The surgical procedures these specialists complete on a regular basis include:
- Extraction of impacted canines and impacted wisdom teeth
- Bone grafting to rebuild jawbone strength after tooth loss
- Removal of dental abscesses, oral cysts and mouth tumors
- Pre-prosthetic procedures to prepare for dental implant placement
- Repair of cleft lip, cleft palate and other oral and facial congenital defects
- Jaw and facial reconstruction following a traumatic accident or injury
In addition, Richmond patients suffering from the pain of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can also find relief through maxillofacial surgery. And for those with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a procedure to enlarge the airway can provide a permanent solution, as that can correct the root of the problem.
Should You Consider Maxillofacial Surgery?
Many people in Richmond find maxillofacial procedures to be life-changing – but simply having a referral in hand doesn’t mean moving ahead with surgical treatment is the right choice.
The decision requires careful thought, and you’ll want to get input from at least one local specialist. With more than 10 years of experience, the professional team at Richmond Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has what it takes to determine if you can benefit from surgical treatment. And, if so, you can count on us to take a safe, minimally invasive approach.
For more information, or to schedule a maxillofacial surgery consultation, contact our office in Richmond, Indiana, today.