How is an Oral Surgeon Different from a General Dentist?

At Buckhead Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we provide the highest quality cosmetic dentistry in Atlanta to ensure you have a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. However, we know that sometimes our patients need extra support when it comes to oral care such as wisdom teeth removal and other complex dental surgeries. That’s why our oral surgeon on staff is here to provide you with excellent care and attention so you maintain a pain-free and healthy smile.

Rather than visit a dentist and then get referred to an outside oral surgeon at a different practice, we handle all of your oral care. Our award-winning team specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry to endodontics and oral surgery, so you know you’re receiving the best of care all under the same roof.

While dentists and oral surgeons can do some of the same procedures, there is a large difference when it comes to an oral surgeon’s specialty.

What is an Oral Surgeon?

Also known as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, an oral surgeon is a dental specialist that treats issues related to the mouth, jaw, and face. Their predominant focus is to perform highly complex dental surgeries and procedures that may be outside the scope and specialty of a dentist. These include the removal of cysts and tumors, complicated tooth extraction and wisdom tooth removal, jaw reconstruction and realignment, tissue biopsy and removal, TMJ treatment, cosmetic surgery, and more.

How is an Oral Surgeon Different from a General Dentist?

One of the main differences between an oral surgeon and a dentist is training. While both oral surgeons and general dentists attend dental school for four years, oral surgeons undergo another four to six years of specialized training in a surgical residency program. During this program, they study oral surgery, anesthesia, and oral pathology, and must pass a board-certified examination to become a licensed oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

While both dentists and oral surgeons can perform some of the same procedures including dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, Teeth in a Day, and more, you may be advised to consult an oral surgeon due to the complexity of your case. This is because oral surgeons are more experienced in dealing with complications that could arise during your procedure. In instances where there may be difficulties, your general dentist will likely refer you to an oral surgeon for treatment.

Receive a Healthy Smile Makeover at Buckhead Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

If you’re experiencing pain due to needing your wisdom teeth removed or issues with your mouth or jaw, Buckhead Cosmetic & Family Dentistry’s oral surgeon is on staff ready to help you receive the comfort and oral health you deserve. From cosmetic and family dentistry to endodontics and oral surgery, we cover all of your oral health needs at our practice so you can always rest assured you’re getting the best dental help in Atlanta for a beautiful and healthy smile.

To learn how you can set up a consultation at our award-winning facility and improve your overall oral health, contact us today.