The Differences between Oral Surgeon and Dentist

Oral surgery is surgery conducted in or around the mouth, such as a dental implant operation or tooth extraction. However, not everyone who does oral surgery is an oral surgeon, and there is a substantial distinction between getting oral surgery and visiting an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. While oral surgery is a broad term for a variety of treatments, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist in procedures involving the face, mouth, and jaw.

Differences General Practitioners (GPs) and Specialists (Surgeons)

The medical difference between a general doctor and a specialist is well-known to many patients. In the case of dental health, there is a comparable distinction:

• A dentist is a general dentist who diagnoses and treats dental ailments.
• A maxillofacial surgeons have oral surgery specialization, inserting dental implants, treating TMJ issues, and removing impacted wisdom teeth, among other things.

Despite the fact that they both provide oral healthcare, anOMS has widespread knowledge beyond dentistry school. OMSs must undergo a four-year hospital-based surgical residency program after completing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). An OMS must receive the necessary state licensure and permits after completing their residency. The majority of OMSs obtain board certification, while others pursue graduate degrees or fellowships.

What are the Benefits of Visiting an OMS?

Although a medical doctor or dentist can conduct some oral surgery, OMSs are the dental profession’s surgical specialists. OMSs are distinguished from other oral healthcare professionals by the substantial training required to become one. Patients may be comfortable with the family dentist, but it is critical to see a specialist when major oral health issues emerge. OMSs can diagnose and conduct the following procedures after completing their training:

• Dental implant surgery
• Teeth extractions
• Wisdom tooth management
• Treatment of oral, head, and neck malignancies
• Reconstructive surgery and treatment of facial injuries/trauma
• Obstructive sleep apnea surgery
• Corrective jaw surgery
• TMJ disorders treatment
• Cleft palate and lip surgery
• Facial cosmetic surgery

Each OMS receives training in general surgery, internal medicine, and anesthesiology alongside residents. They also work in emergency medicine, plastic surgery, and otolaryngology, among other specialties (ear, nose and throat).

Locate an OMS in Your Area

An OMS isn’t just “someone who does oral surgery.” OMSs are the surgical specialists in their profession, thanks to their extensive education and training. For a consultation, locate a nearby OMS. See Dr. Wooten here for any of your dentistry requirement.

**Disclaimer: This site content is not intended to be medical advice nor establishes a doctor-patient relationship.