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Oral Surgeon vs. Dentist

When to Visit an Oral Surgeon vs. a Dentist: 5 Common Scenarios

Deciding whether to see an oral surgeon vs. a dentist can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with tooth pain or another pressing oral health issue. Which doctor treats what? And how do you know which type of provider you actually need?

Let’s break down the differences between oral surgeons and dentists so you can confidently decide where to turn when the need arises. In this blog, we’ll clear up the confusion about these two kinds of dental professionals and cover five of the most common reasons to visit an oral surgeon instead of a dentist.

Oral Surgeon vs. Dentist: What’s the Big Difference?

Think of it this way: dentists are there for your everyday oral health needs, and oral surgeons are there when things get more complex. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Dentists are your go-to for routine dental care. They handle cleanings, fillings, minor extractions, crowns, bridges, and preventive care. Dentists are like your primary care doctor—essential for keeping things in check.
  • Oral Surgeons step in when surgical intervention is needed. Oral surgeons (officially called oral and maxillofacial surgeons) are trained to handle complex surgeries involving your jaw, face, and mouth. They perform wisdom tooth extractions, dental implants, facial trauma, and more.

Oral surgeons go through additional years of specialized training beyond dental school, including hospital-based surgical residencies. This education allows them to manage more advanced cases that general dentists typically refer out.

Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s explore the top five reasons you might need an oral surgeon instead of a dentist.

5 Common Reasons to See an Oral Surgeon

1. Wisdom Teeth Giving You Trouble? Call a Surgeon

If your wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck under the gums) or growing at awkward angles, they’ll need a specialist’s touch. Oral surgeons have the advanced training to handle these trickier extractions while minimizing risks near nerves and sinuses.

Wisdom teeth removal often requires surgical expertise because these teeth can grow in unpredictable ways, sometimes pressing against other teeth or becoming infected. Oral surgeons use advanced imaging and anesthesia to ensure the procedure is safe and comfortable.

2. Thinking About Dental Implants? Consult a Surgeon

Dental implants are a game-changer for missing teeth, but they’re not a DIY project. An oral surgeon’s expertise ensures your implants are placed precisely, setting you up for long-term success and avoiding complications.

Implants involve surgically placing titanium posts into the jawbone, which then fuse with the bone over time. This process requires precision and a deep understanding of facial anatomy—skills that oral surgeons are uniquely trained for.

3. Facial Trauma or Jaw Injuries? Surgeons Have You Covered

Accidents happen—and when they involve your face or jaw, an oral surgeon is your go-to. From jaw fractures to soft tissue injuries, they specialize in restoring function and appearance.

For example, oral surgeons can repair broken facial bones, address severe lacerations, and even perform reconstructive procedures to restore symmetry and function after trauma. Their expertise ensures that both aesthetic and functional outcomes are prioritized.

4. Need a Biopsy or Lesion Removed? Get a Surgeon

If you have a suspicious growth or lesion in your mouth, an oral surgeon can perform a biopsy to check for oral cancer or other issues. They’re also trained to remove growths safely and effectively.

Oral surgeons are often the first line of defense in detecting and addressing oral cancers. They work closely with pathologists to ensure accurate diagnoses and provide follow-up care tailored to your specific needs.

5. TMJ Pain or Jaw Misalignment? See a Surgeon

Severe TMJ disorders or jaw alignment issues can cause chronic pain and difficulty eating or speaking. Oral surgeons can correct these issues surgically to improve your quality of life.

Procedures like corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) can align the jaw properly, relieving pain and restoring function. Oral surgeons use advanced technology to plan these surgeries with precision, ensuring optimal results.

What About More Routine Issues?

Dentists and oral surgeons often work together to provide comprehensive care for patients. For example, your dentist might handle a simple extraction for a tooth that’s visible and easily accessible. But if that tooth is impacted, fractured, or located near sensitive areas like nerves, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon.

This collaboration also comes into play with treatments like dental implants. While your dentist may handle the crown placement or ongoing maintenance, an oral surgeon typically takes care of the initial surgical placement of the implant. Similarly, dentists may work with oral surgeons to co-manage complex conditions like TMJ disorders, ensuring patients receive the best possible outcome.

If you’re dealing with something more routine, such as a cavity, cleaning, or gum care, your dentist is fully equipped to address those needs. But when complications arise, having a trusted oral surgeon to step in is invaluable.

So, How Do You Know Whether to See an Oral Surgeon vs. a Dentist?

Choosing between a dentist and an oral surgeon doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how to simplify the decision:

  • Start with Your Dentist: They can assess your needs and refer you to an oral surgeon if necessary.
  • Evaluate the Complexity of the Problem: For straightforward issues like regular checkups, fillings, or non-complex extractions, choose a dentist. If you’re dealing with something more complicated—like impacted wisdom teeth, severe jaw pain, or oral lesions—call in an oral surgeon.
  • Get a Professional Opinion: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Your dentist or primary care provider can guide you to the right specialist based on your symptoms.

It’s all about teamwork. When dentists and oral surgeons collaborate, patients benefit from the combined expertise of both professionals, ensuring optimal care at every stage of treatment.

Think You Might Need an Oral Surgeon? Ocoee Oral Surgery is Here for You

At Ocoee Oral Surgery, our providers are trained in advanced oral and maxillofacial surgical care to provide specialized care when you need it. Whether you’ve been referred by your dentist or you suspect you need specialized attention, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Our experienced team handles everything from wisdom tooth removal and dental implants to jaw surgery and oral cancer treatments. Using state-of-the-art technology and a patient-focused approach, we ensure your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

Let us help you achieve optimal oral health. Whether you’re looking for answers or already know you need surgical care, Ocoee Oral Surgery is here to provide the expertise and support you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a patient consultation and take the first step towards a healthier smile.

Your Oral Surgeon in Chattanooga TN

Oral Surgeon Chattanooga TN

Oral Surgeon Chattanooga TN

When looking for an oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN or the surrounding areas, you’ll want a professional that is highly skilled and knowledgeable in the field, has a good bedside manner, and is experienced in the specific treatments needed. Dr. McCord, D.D.S. and the entire team at Ocoee Oral Surgery have all these traits and more. Located in Cleveland TN, we are a short enough distance away to be your oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN for the following procedures.

Surgical tooth removal from your oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN

Preserving teeth is our goal, but sometimes removal is necessary. To make room for braces and other orthodontic treatments, misaligned teeth may be extracted. Techniques vary depending on tooth type, location, and complications. Before surgery, our surgeons assess the tooth(s), noting the position and potential issues. In most cases, a minimally-invasive technique is used. We also specialize in challenging extractions, multiple roots, and impacted/brittle teeth.

Bone grafting from your oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN

Jawbone associated with missing teeth can deteriorate. This decreases the quality and amount of bone for placing dental implants. We can grow bone to create suitable sites. This permits us to install implants of the proper size and restores function and appearance. Bone grafting is an option to use a tissue bank or own bone from the jaw to build up inadequate bone structure due to extractions, gum disease, or injury. Membranes can be used which dissolve, protect the graft, and promote bone growth.

Exposure and bonding from your oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN

Impacted teeth may lack room to emerge. We can surgically aid in eruption, exposure, and bonding. Exposure is done by raising the gum to reveal the tooth. If a baby tooth is still there, it’s removed. Bonding entails uncovering the impacted tooth and attaching an orthodontic attachment, then replacing the gum. We bond a bracket to the exposed tooth, so it erupts with less resistance. We may leave the tooth fully exposed by stitching the gum above it or making a window around it.

And more from your oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN

We also provide wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, TMJ treatment options, and a variety of other procedures here at Ocoee Oral Surgery. Our educated and certified staff have extensive knowledge and experience in oral surgery, but more importantly a genuine desire to help patients achieve their desired outcomes. We take the time to listen to others, respect every individual’s unique needs and circumstances, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to deliver the best possible care. With our office nearby in Cleveland, we hope you consider us for your oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN.

Apicoectomy– Oral Surgery Cleveland

Ocoee Oral Surgery in Cleveland TN offers apicoectomy procedures for patients in which root canals have not been a successful course of treatment.

Ocoee Oral Surgery in Cleveland TN offers apicoectomy procedures for patients in which root canals have not been a successful course of treatment.

Most people are familiar with what a root canal is. Maybe you’ve had one, or someone you know has had to have one performed. But fewer people are familiar with the oral surgery procedure called apicoectomy, or root amputation. Apicoectomy, also known as a root end surgery or root-end filling, is an endodontic procedure during which a tooth’s root tip is removed and a root end cavity is prepared for filling with a biocompatible material.

Apicoectomy becomes a necessary treatment when the traditional root canal procedure has failed and re-treating that tooth has already proven unsuccessful, or is ill-advised. The only alternative past this treatment would be extraction of the affected tooth followed by some type of prosthetic– a dental implant, bridge, or denture.

Why choose apicoectomy for treatment?

In cases of failed root canals, this oral surgery procedure provides hope for saving a tooth that would otherwise have to be extracted. A maxillofacial surgeon can potentially save the tooth with this oral surgery, thus saving the patient from having to undergo further treatment and expense involved with an implant.

What’s the difference between a root canal and an apicoectomy?

During a conventional root canal procedure, your dentist or endodontist will remove the tooth’s pulp– the soft layer of tissue containing blood vessels and nerves inside your tooth. If a tooth’s pulp is damaged by decay or trauma, it will start to break down, then bacteria will begin to inhabit that space. During the root canal, the infected pulp is removed and the pulp’s chamber cleaned and filled.

An apicoectomy takes the root canal therapy a step further. During the apicoectomy, your Cleveland oral surgeon, in addition to removing the tooth’s pulp, also removes the tip of the tooth’s root. Then the oral surgeon will apply a small filling to seal the tooth’s root.

Risks of Apicoectomy

Though the apicoectomy procedure is often successful in addressing the tooth issue, patients should be aware that in some cases, the surgery won’t be effective, and the tooth will ultimately have to be extracted.

There is also some risk of sinus irritation, particularly if the infected tooth is located on your upper jaw near the back of the mouth. Similarly, if the infected tooth is located on the lower jaw, there is more risk for potential nerve damage, as these teeth are situated close to the system of nerves in your mouth. Your surgeon at Ocoee Oral Surgery will be able to assess your particular situation, and address any potential risks as they pertain to you.

Recovery from Apicoectomy

Since the procedure is more invasive than a root canal, apicoectomy may result in a longer recovery time with a little more pain involved. Some patients will experience swelling and bruising of the face near the treated tooth, and some pain in the days following the procedure. Our staff can help you understand what to expect, and how to approach recovery from the treatment, and as always, we’re here to answer any questions you may have about this oral surgery.

If you are dealing with an affected tooth, and think an apicoectomy might be the right course of action, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Cleveland oral surgery team today. We’re here to help.

Is Wisdom Teeth Removal a Must?

Wisdom teeth is common for many teens and young adults. While it is a common procedure, is it always necessary? Each person and case is unique and should be reviewed on an individual basis. Here are a few reasons removing wisdom teeth may be beneficial to your dental health.

We recommend removing wisdom teeth when they begin to cause gum problems. Impacted wisdom teeth can result in pain and swelling. If wisdom teeth have only partially broken through the jaw and tissues they are especially vulnerable to infections and cysts within the jaw bone and gum tissue.

In addition to crowding other teeth, the pockets they create can fill with bacteria and food causing damage to surrounding teeth. This can cause cavities within the root system and tooth extraction will likely be required.

Wisdom tooth removal may also be recommended if their position hinders chewing or jaw function. In some cases they can cause pain and damage to the soft tissues inside the mouth or cause discomfort while chewing.

Tooth alignment can also be affected as wisdom teeth come in. They can press against other teeth and consequently undo the work of braces, bridges, crowns, partial dentures and other types of dental work.

While there are a variety of reasons wisdom tooth removal may be beneficial, they may not have to be extracted if they are healthy, have fully broken through, are functioning properly and are not crowding other teeth.

If you are experiencing pain and discomfort from wisdom teeth, call our Cleveland oral surgeon to schedule an appointment.

Dental Implant FAQ

dental implants cleveland tn

Dental implants can be the permanent answer for individuals struggling with tooth loss. Dental implants provide a structurally sound restoration with the appearance of natural teeth. Here are a few of our most frequently asked questions from patients considering dental implants.

Q: What are the benefits of dental implants?
A: Dental implants bond well to the jawbone and create a strong fit that are less likely to weaken over time. This option provides a natural appearance and feel.

Q: Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
A: There must be sufficient bone material for long term success with dental implants. X-rays and a jaw exam will help to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure. A bone graft may be recommended if you have experienced bone loss.

Q: What is the cost of dental implants?
A: Consider the long term cost of dental implants versus the long term cost of alternatives. While dentures and dental bridges may have a lower initial cost, they will lose their shape over time and will need to be replaced. Dental implants provide a lifelong solution.

Q: Should I do anything specific to take care of my dental implants?
A: Dental implants require care similar to that of your natural teeth. Proper brushing and regular visits to your dentist will ensure your natural, shining smile.

Our Cleveland oral surgeon provides a variety of dental implants, bridges, dentures and other alternatives to lessen the impact of tooth loss in your daily life. Contact us today for more information on tooth loss and dental implants.