When one or more wisdom teeth need to be removed, usually because they don't fully come out of the gumline, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon to have a tooth extracted. This type of surgical procedure may require opening both the gum tissue and the jaw in order to successfully remove an impacted tooth. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist who offers a range of oral health treatments, many of which are surgical in nature. Your dentist may have referred you to an oral surgeon for dental implant placement, wisdom tooth extraction, oral pathology, or jaw surgery. However, if it appears that the extraction is going to be particularly complex or lengthy, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon.
Oral surgeons bring more knowledge and experience to perform complicated extractions. Oral surgeons complete advanced training after dental school to become specialists in oral surgery, so they have all the knowledge and training of a general dentist and more. When a general dentist and an oral surgeon collaborate, the patient receives the best possible care. If you need any type of oral surgery, the best thing your dentist can do is refer you to an oral surgeon. Extracting impacted teeth is more invasive than other types of tooth extractions and therefore requires the expertise of a specialist.
By checking this box, you also agree to receive email communications from Wheaton Oral Surgery & Implant Center. A general dentist can provide services that range from routine cleanings and exams to the detection and diagnosis of periodontal disease. The dentist and oral surgeon will work together to create an accurate treatment plan and will use careful techniques to perform the procedure. Many medical and dental insurance policies require a referral before paying for the services of an oral surgeon. By checking this box, you agree to exempt Wheaton Oral Surgery & Implant Center, including its doctors and affiliates, from any hacking or unauthorized use of your personal information by third parties.
Patients should familiarize themselves with the requirements of the surgeon and their insurance company before scheduling an appointment. Once the implant is firmly in place and healed, the oral surgeon can add the new tooth to the implant. However, if your dentist finds a problem in the mouth, jaw, head, or neck that requires more thorough care, he can refer you to an oral surgeon. An experienced oral surgeon will first use conservative treatments to combat the TMJ disorder, but surgical intervention may be necessary. Even when a referral isn't required, it can be beneficial to get one as it helps the surgeon coordinate care with other dental and healthcare providers. Not all oral surgeons require referrals from a general dentist, but one can help coordinate patient care and may be required by the patient's insurance provider.
Extracting impacted teeth generally requires a surgeon to cut the gums and jaw to remove the affected teeth. The idea of oral surgery can be intimidating, but an experienced oral surgeon can make all the difference.
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