Glossary Entry: Oral Surgeon

Overview

Definition: An oral surgeon, also known as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, is a specialized dental professional who focuses on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of various diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and the hard and soft tissues of the mouth.

Detailed Description

Types and Variations

Variations: Oral surgeons may specialize in various areas such as orthognathic surgery, dental implants, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, facial trauma, oral pathology, and cleft lip and palate repair.

Indications

Common Uses: Oral surgeons commonly perform tooth extractions, wisdom tooth removal, corrective jaw surgery, bone grafting, dental implant placement, and treatment of facial injuries and infections.

Insertion and Placement

Procedure: Oral surgeons follow precise surgical techniques for procedures such as tooth extractions, implant placements, and jaw surgeries, ensuring proper positioning and alignment of tissues and devices.

Clinical Considerations

Potential Complications

Risks: Potential complications of oral surgery include infection, nerve damage, bleeding, delayed healing, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Requirements: Patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the oral surgeon to promote healing, prevent infections, and ensure the success of surgical interventions.

Additional Information

Related Devices

Associated Terms: Oral surgeons may use tools such as surgical drills, forceps, retractors, sutures, and bone grafting materials during procedures.

Innovations and Advancements

Recent Developments: Advances in imaging technology, such as 3D cone beam CT scans, have improved the accuracy of treatment planning and surgical outcomes in oral surgery.

Regulatory and Safety Notes

Regulations: Oral surgeons must adhere to strict guidelines and standards set by regulatory bodies to ensure patient safety and quality of care.