A unique branch of dentistry is known as maxillofacial surgery. It involves surgical procedures to treat conditions, injuries, and defects of the face, jaw, and mouth. Maxillofacial surgeons are highly skilled professionals who identify and treat issues related to:

• The bones of your jaw and the tissues in your lower face (maxillofacial area)
• The roof of your mouth (palate)

The Purpose of Maxillofacial Surgery

Surgery in the maxillofacial region is performed to:

• Improve jaw movement
• Relieve pain

Maxillofacial surgery can treat a variety of dental issues and conditions, including:

• Preparing for dental implants and oral prosthetics (such as dentures)
• Inserting dental implants
• Determining and removing the causes of persistent dental pain
• Removing impacted teeth
• Treating oral conditions

Procedures are also used to treat jaw problems, such as:

• Replacing missing jawbone using bone grafting
• Rebuilding the jaw to correct a misaligned bite
• Treating disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the lower jaw to the skull
• Treating injuries caused by trauma to the mouth, jaw, or face

Before Maxillofacial Surgery

If you require maxillofacial surgery, your primary care physician or dentist will refer you to a specialist.

During the consultation, the maxillofacial surgeon will:

• Ask about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications
• Examine your oral cavity and surrounding structures
• Order tests such as dental X-rays or 3D scans to obtain accurate images
• Identify the problem and recommend surgery or other treatment options

How Maxillofacial Surgery Is Performed

The surgical method varies depending on the issue being treated. Some procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to go home the same day. Other cases may require multiple procedures to achieve the best results.

Maxillofacial surgeons are trained and authorized to administer anesthesia to reduce or eliminate discomfort. Your medical team will inform you whether anesthesia is required and which type is appropriate.

Toward the end of the procedure, your surgeon may use stitches to close surgical wounds. Packing may also be placed in your mouth to absorb fluids like blood or pus and to protect the treated area.