Boynton Beach Office:
Enhancing Lives Through Expert Dental Care
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dental specialists who complete extensive surgical training after dental school. This includes at least four years in an accredited, hospital-based residency, where they collaborate with medical residents in fields such as internal medicine, general surgery, anesthesiology, ENT (ear, nose, and throat), plastic surgery, and emergency medicine.
Specializing in the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaw, oral surgeons have the expertise to diagnose and treat both functional and aesthetic conditions. Their combination of medical knowledge and surgical skill allows them to provide precise care that enhances patients’ health and quality of life.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery addresses a wide range of diseases, injuries, and defects affecting the head, neck, face, jaws, and the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region. It is an internationally recognized surgical specialty and one of the nine dental specialties acknowledged by the American Dental Association.
Conditions and Treatments Managed by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete extensive education and hands-on training to manage a wide range of conditions. They are experts in treating complex issues involving the mouth, face, and jaw.
Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw, and chin to correct skeletal and dental irregularities, including misaligned jaws and teeth. This procedure can enhance chewing, speaking, and breathing. Signs that may indicate the need for surgery include difficulty chewing, uneven tooth wear, a receding chin, a protruding jaw, or sleep apnea.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth sometimes do not emerge correctly, leading to impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean and are more likely to cause tooth decay, infections, and gum disease. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons advises removing wisdom teeth in young adulthood to prevent complications and support optimal healing.
Cleft Palate Repair
A cleft palate happens when the lip or roof of the mouth does not fully form during fetal development, creating a gap or split. This condition can impact feeding, speech, and hearing. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons collaborate with a team of specialists to correct the cleft through a series of treatments and surgeries tailored over time.
Facial Trauma Treatment
Facial trauma, such as fractures of the jaw, cheekbones, palate, or eye sockets, can impact vision, breathing, speaking, and swallowing. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specially trained to treat these injuries, often using surgical techniques. Wearing protective gear like mouthguards and helmets is key to helping prevent facial injuries.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) links the lower jaw to the skull. When this joint is dysfunctional—known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD)—it can cause jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and difficulty moving the jaw. While non-surgical treatments are usually effective, severe cases may require surgery to repair damaged tissue or address joint problems, often using arthroscopic techniques.
Oral Cancer Detection and Management
Oral cancer may appear as white or red patches, lumps, or sores that do not heal. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons advise regular self-checks and prompt evaluation if any symptoms arise. When needed, they perform biopsies to diagnose and treat oral cancer quickly.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are permanent solutions for missing teeth. Made from titanium, they integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, providing a stable and durable replacement. Unlike other options, implants do not shift or decay and help preserve the jawbone.
Outpatient Anesthesia
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specially trained to provide safe and effective outpatient anesthesia. Options include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. They carefully assess each patient, administer the appropriate anesthesia, and monitor recovery after procedures.
For any of these conditions or treatments, consulting an oral and maxillofacial surgeon ensures expert care and the best possible outcomes.