If your dentist has referred you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, it’s natural to have questions. You may be experiencing ongoing dental pain, jaw discomfort, or a facial injury that requires specialized care. While this can feel worrying at first, a referral simply means your dentist wants you to receive the most advanced and appropriate treatment for your condition.
What is Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery?
The term oral relates to your mouth, while maxillofacial refers to your jaw, face, and related structures. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized branch of dentistry that treats complex issues involving the teeth, gums, jaws, and surrounding soft tissues.
Being referred to an oral surgeon doesn’t necessarily mean your case is severe — in many situations, surgery can correct functional problems, relieve pain, or improve facial appearance and overall oral health.
Common Conditions Treated
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons address a wide range of dental and facial issues, including:
• Impacted Teeth – Often affecting wisdom teeth, these can become overcrowded or fail to fully emerge, leading to infection or gum pain. Early removal can prevent complications.
• Jaw Joint (TMJ) Disorders – Severe cases causing jaw-popping, stiffness, or headaches may require surgical correction.
• Overbite/Underbite – Misaligned teeth and jaws can affect speech, breathing, and appearance. Orthodontics may be combined with surgery for lasting correction.
• Cleft Lip and Palate – Congenital conditions that can affect feeding, speech, and appearance. Surgery often involves a coordinated team of specialists to restore both function and aesthetics.
• Facial Trauma – Fractures or injuries to the jaw, cheekbones, or eye sockets caused by accidents or sports injuries.
• Oral Pathology – Removal of cysts, tumors, or treatment of oral cancers.
Other Specialized Procedures
• Orthognathic Surgery – Correcting jaw alignment to improve function and appearance.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment – Surgical options when other treatments are ineffective.
• Dental Implants – Replacing missing teeth with strong, natural-looking restorations.
Oral Surgery at Lakewood Dental Smile, Dearborn, Michigan
At Lakewood Dental Smile, our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of oral and maxillofacial conditions. From routine tooth extractions to complex jaw surgeries, all procedures are performed with precision, safety, and patient comfort in mind. We use modern techniques and follow strict guidelines to ensure you receive the highest quality care.
