Separating Reality from Fiction
in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral and maxillofacial surgery can sound intimidating, but it’s a field of dentistry dedicated to correcting a wide range of issues, from complex dental problems to facial injuries. Despite its importance, many misconceptions surround these procedures. To help you feel more comfortable and informed, let’s separate some common myths from the established facts.
Myth #1: Oral surgery is only for pulling teeth.
Fact: While tooth extraction is a common procedure, oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses a vast scope of treatments. Our surgeons are highly trained to perform a variety of complex procedures, including:
- Dental Implants: Placing artificial tooth roots to support crowns, bridges, or dentures.
- Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery: Correcting misalignments of the jaws to improve function and facial aesthetics.
- TMJ Disorder Treatment: Addressing pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint.
- Facial Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery: Repairing fractures of the jaw, cheekbones, and eye sockets.
- Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery: Correcting congenital facial deformities.
- Removal of Oral Pathologies: Excising cysts, tumors, and other growths in the mouth and jaw.
Myth #2: Wisdom teeth always have to be removed.
Fact: Not every person needs to have their wisdom teeth extracted. If they are growing in straight, are fully erupted, and are not causing any pain or damage to other teeth, they can often be left alone. However, most people do require extraction because their wisdom teeth are impacted (trapped beneath the gum line), coming in at an angle, or causing overcrowding and damage to adjacent teeth. A thorough examination and X-rays are the only way to determine if extraction is necessary for you.
Myth #3: Oral surgery is always painful and requires a long recovery.
Fact: Modern oral and maxillofacial surgery has advanced significantly to prioritize patient comfort. We use a range of anesthesia and sedation options—from local anesthesia to IV sedation—to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Post-operative pain is managed effectively with prescribed medications, and we provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and speed up your recovery. The length of recovery varies greatly depending on the procedure, but for many common surgeries, patients are back to their normal routines within a few days.
Myth #4: Dental implants are not a long-term solution for missing teeth.
Fact: When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are designed to be a permanent, durable, and natural-looking solution for tooth loss. Unlike bridges or dentures that may need to be replaced over time, dental implants fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, providing a stable foundation that acts just like a natural tooth root. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are the keys to their long-term success.
Myth #5: It’s better to wait until a problem becomes severe before seeing an oral surgeon.
Fact: This couldn’t be further from the truth. Early detection and intervention are crucial in oral and maxillofacial surgery. For example, addressing a jaw misalignment with orthognathic surgery earlier can prevent years of pain and discomfort. Similarly, removing an impacted wisdom tooth before it damages neighboring teeth or becomes infected is a proactive measure that saves you from a more complex and painful situation later on. Don’t wait for a small issue to become a big problem—a consultation can provide a clear diagnosis and a plan for treatment.
If you have questions or concerns about your oral health, don’t rely on myths. Contact our office today for a consultation. We are here to provide you with the facts and the highest level of care, ensuring your treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.