Not all dental problems can be solved by a general dentist. Some issues involve the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the face and jaw. In such cases, it’s important to seek care from a specialist. That’s where an oral and facial surgery doctor comes in.
These professionals are trained to handle complex dental and surgical procedures that go beyond regular oral care. If you’re already seeing the best dentist in San Antonio, they might refer you to a surgeon for certain conditions.
Signs That You Need Surgical Expertise
Certain symptoms and dental conditions indicate the need to visit an oral surgeon. These go beyond routine cleaning or fillings. Watch for these signs:
- Severe pain in the jaw, especially while chewing
- A clicking or locking jaw joint
- Facial swelling or injuries after an accident
- Persistent sores or lumps inside the mouth
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
These symptoms may signal problems that require medical evaluation and possibly surgery.
Tooth Extractions Beyond the Usual
A common reason to visit an oral surgeon is for tooth removal—especially when it isn’t simple. This includes:
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Broken teeth below the gumline
- Teeth with complex roots or infections
While a general dentist can extract regular teeth, some cases require deeper surgical skill. That’s when a certified oral surgery doctor becomes necessary.
Jaw Misalignment and Structural Problems
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat more than just teeth. They help correct misaligned jaws, which can cause:
- Bite issues
- Trouble speaking
- Sleep apnea in severe cases
- Long-term jaw pain
Surgical correction is often the only solution when braces or aligners aren’t enough. An oral and facial surgery doctor is trained to assess and correct these kinds of issues.
Treatment for Facial Trauma
If you’ve had an accident that affects the mouth or jaw, it’s important to seek care quickly. An oral surgeon handles:
- Broken facial bones
- Jaw fractures
- Soft tissue damage
- Dental implant support for missing teeth due to injury
Immediate evaluation and repair can prevent complications and restore normal function.
Oral Pathology and Biopsies
Strange growths, persistent ulcers, or changes in oral tissue shouldn’t be ignored. An oral surgeon may need to perform a biopsy. This helps rule out serious conditions like oral cancer. Only a certified oral surgery doctor has the right tools and knowledge to handle such cases carefully.
When Regular Dentistry Isn’t Enough
Some patients have complex needs due to health conditions or previous dental work. In these cases, general dentistry may fall short. Surgical assistance is needed for:
- Complex root surgeries
- Bone grafting for dental implants
- Sinus lifts for upper jaw treatment
- Correction of birth defects like cleft palate
In such cases, a referral from the best dentist in San Antonio ensures you get the right care without delay.
Care That Goes Deeper
Even routine dental care sometimes leads to more advanced treatment needs. When dental problems involve surgery or complex bone structures, patients benefit from specialist care. From extractions to jaw realignment, a skilled oral and facial surgery doctor can address issues regular dentists can’t.
At SA Family Dentist, those needing surgical procedures are referred to a trusted certified oral surgery doctor for accurate treatment and personalized attention.
