When To Visit an Oral Surgeon vs. A General Dentist

Wondering whether you should visit an oral surgeon or a general dentist? Read on to learn more. Your oral health is crucial for your overall well-being. Knowing which dental professional to consult can ensure optimal care for your teeth and gums.

Choosing when to see an oral surgeon vs. a general dentist

While general dentists specialize in addressing routine dental concerns, certain conditions demand the skills of an oral surgeon. The following is an overview of reasons to visit each type of professional:

When to see a general dentist

A general dentist serves a similar function to a family doctor regarding one’s oral health. They play a foundational role in maintaining dental hygiene and addressing everyday dental issues, such as:

• Routine checkups and cleaning: Regular visits to a general dentist every six months will help catch any issues in their earliest stages, ensuring more manageable treatment options and a better outcome. The visit is an opportunity to perform teeth cleanings, check for cavities, and recommend further treatments if necessary.
• Minor restorative procedures: It is a good idea to visit a general dentist for minor restorative work. They offer services such as filling a cavity, repairing a chipped tooth, or placing a crown or bridge. The dentist will examine the patient’s oral cavity and recommend the best treatment.
• Gum care: General dentists can diagnose and recommend procedures such as scaling and root planing for treating moderate gum disease.
• Cosmetic treatments: When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, a general dentist can typically handle procedures like teeth whitening, bonding, and even simple veneers.

When to see an oral surgeon

In some cases, it is advisable to visit an oral surgeon. Such situations include:

• Impacted wisdom teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause immense pain and can lead to infections or misalignment of teeth. An oral surgeon has the training to remove these problematic teeth with precision.
• Dental implants: Some general dentists perform basic dental implant procedures. However, complex cases that demand bone grafting or specialized care are typically the job of oral surgeons.
• Jaw surgery: Conditions like TMJ disorders, uneven jaw growth, or issues arising from facial trauma often necessitate surgical interventions.
• Biopsies and lesion removals: If a suspicious area in the mouth could be potentially cancerous, an oral surgeon can perform a biopsy. They also have the required training to remove benign oral tumors or cysts.
• Complex tooth extractions: While general dentists can handle many extractions, more complicated cases, such as a broken tooth lying beneath the gum line, might require an oral surgeon.
• Facial pain or injury: Oral surgeons can treat facial traumas, including fractured facial bones (cheek, nose, or eye socket) or injuries to the soft tissues of the face and mouth.