Best Oral and maxillofacial surgeons

What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?

The oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a highly specialized professional focused on treating conditions that affect the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. To become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, rigorous training is required. The process begins with a degree in Dentistry, followed by a medical residency lasting 3 to 4 years. During this training, the surgeon learns to perform complex procedures, such as correction of facial deformities, treatment of facial fractures, and removal of benign tumors in the oral and maxillofacial regions.

The multidisciplinary role of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon

In the modern era, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon works in conjunction with other specialists such as orthodontists, otolaryngologists, and aesthetic physicians. This integrated approach provides more comprehensive treatments and superior results for patients. Multidisciplinary collaboration is especially important in complex cases involving both functional and aesthetic aspects of the face.

When should I seek an oral and maxillofacial surgeon

There are several signs that indicate the need to consult this specialist. You should seek an oral and maxillofacial surgeon if you are experiencing:

• Difficulties chewing or speaking
• Pain in the jaw or clicking when opening the mouth
• Persistent and unexplained facial swelling
• Severe limitation in mouth opening (less than 2 cm)
• Facial fractures
• Presence of cysts or benign tumors in the oral region
• Deformities in the facial bones
• Sleep apnea related to structural issues of the face
• Need for removal of impacted teeth

Early intervention in these cases can prevent serious complications and significantly improve the prognosis of treatment. Before scheduling your appointment, check doctor reviews to choose the most suitable professional for your case.

Benefits of treatment with oral and maxillofacial surgeons

The treatments performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer benefits not only for oral health but also for the patient's quality of life. The correction of facial deformities and functional problems can have a major impact on self-esteem and confidence, allowing you to feel better about yourself and more comfortable in social interactions.

Additionally, by treating conditions such as facial fractures or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, the surgeon can reduce chronic pain, improve mobility, and restore normal function of the jaw and teeth. This not only relieves discomfort but also brings significant improvements in your ability to perform daily activities such as eating, speaking, and breathing.

Aesthetic and psychological transformations post-treatment

Oral and maxillofacial surgeries frequently result in profound transformations both physically and psychologically. Patients with corrected facial deformities report significant improvement in their social and professional quality of life. Recent studies demonstrate that the correction of facial asymmetries and functional problems is directly related to the reduction of anxiety and depression in many patients.

Areas of expertise of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon

Facial fractures

When you suffer a facial fracture, whether due to a traffic accident, fall, or sports trauma, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the specialist responsible for correcting the fracture and properly restoring the facial structure, ensuring adequate healing.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

If you have problems with the temporomandibular joint, such as jaw pain, difficulty opening your mouth, or clicking when speaking, the surgeon can perform specific treatments to correct these conditions, providing relief and comfort.

Orthognathic surgeries

In cases of deformities in the facial bones and jaw, orthognathic surgeries are indicated to correct functional or aesthetic problems, restoring the correct alignment of the facial bones.

Treatment of benign tumors and cysts

The oral and maxillofacial surgeon is also responsible for removing benign tumors and cysts in the oral, maxillary, and facial regions, preventing complications and improving your quality of life.

Treatment of sleep apnea

For cases of sleep apnea caused by structural problems in the mouth or jaw, the surgeon can perform surgical interventions to improve breathing during sleep.

Dental implants

This professional specializes in the placement of dental implants to replace lost teeth, recovering both the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth.

Post-trauma and oncological facial reconstruction

This specialty plays a fundamental role in the reconstruction of patients who have suffered serious accidents or undergone oncological surgeries. Advanced reconstruction techniques with bone grafts and customized implants have revolutionized the recovery of these patients. Complete facial rehabilitation may involve multiple stages, including bone reconstruction, soft tissue reconstruction, and integrated prosthetic rehabilitation.

How to identify if you need an oral and maxillofacial surgeon

To help identify signs that may indicate the need for consultation with a specialist, consider the following questions:

• Do you frequently feel pain in the jaw area?
• Do you have difficulty chewing harder foods?
• Do you notice clicking sounds when opening or closing your mouth?
• Have you noticed any visible deformity in your face?
• Have you recently suffered any type of facial trauma?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it is important to schedule an evaluation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to investigate the cause of these symptoms.

Advances in oral and maxillofacial surgery

The field of oral and maxillofacial surgery has evolved significantly in recent years, mainly with the use of minimally invasive techniques. This means that surgeries can now be done with smaller incisions, reducing recovery time and decreasing the risks of complications.

Technological innovations in oral and maxillofacial surgery

Technological advances have revolutionized the specialty, highlighting:

• 3D printing for creating customized surgical guides
• Three-dimensional images for precise planning
• Augmented reality applied during complex procedures
• High-precision intraoperative navigation systems

These technologies allow for more precise, safe procedures with more predictable results, representing a significant evolution in the specialty.

What to expect during the recovery process

The recovery period varies depending on the procedure performed, but generally involves some distinct phases. The first days are characterized by swelling and moderate discomfort, usually well controlled with medication.

Eating undergoes gradual adaptations, starting with a liquid diet and progressing to more solid foods as healing advances. It is essential to follow all the surgeon's guidelines to ensure proper recovery.

How to choose the best oral and maxillofacial surgeon

Choosing the right oral and maxillofacial surgeon is essential to ensure successful treatment. Check if the professional has specific training and experience in the area, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge to handle your case.

Criteria for evaluating professional qualification

When choosing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, consider:

• Specialization recognized by the Federal Council of Dentistry
• Experience in cases similar to yours
• Constant updates in techniques and technologies
• Participation in congresses and scientific publications

Participation in congresses and scientific publications can also be an indicator of a professional who stays updated with the best practices in the specialty.

Prevention of oral and maxillofacial problems

Many problems that require surgical intervention could be avoided with adequate preventive measures. The use of mouth guards during contact sports activities can prevent fractures and serious injuries in the facial region.

Preventive orthodontic treatment at the appropriate age can reduce the need for orthognathic surgeries in the future. Regular visits to the dentist can also identify problems in early stages, facilitating less invasive treatments.

The impact of oral and maxillofacial health on quality of life

The health of the oral and maxillofacial region directly impacts quality of life, affecting essential functions such as eating, speaking, and breathing, as well as having a great influence on appearance and self-esteem. Taking proper care of this region is investing in overall well-being.

Seeking specialized help at the first signs of problems can make all the difference in treatment and prognosis, ensuring more effective and less invasive results.

Why choose AvaliaMed for your consultation with oral and maxillofacial surgeons

AvaliaMed is an essential platform for those seeking to choose the best healthcare professional, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons. It allows you to consult real reviews from patients who have already undergone treatment, offering an authentic and transparent view of the quality of care and the results obtained.

Additionally, AvaliaMed facilitates your research and choice of qualified professionals. By using the platform, you can make a more informed decision, ensuring that you are entrusting your treatment to a well-recommended professional with a good reputation. The platform also offers the possibility of scheduling appointments directly, making the process even more convenient and safe for your oral and facial health.