Maxillofacial surgery treats conditions affecting the jaw, face, and oral structures. These procedures not only improve function and relieve discomfort but also contribute to overall oral and facial health. Every patient’s needs are different, and oral surgeons provide specialized care to address each unique situation. If you are considering treatment, learning about some of the most common types of maxillofacial surgery can help you feel more prepared for your first visit.
A wisdom teeth extraction is a common type of maxillofacial surgery performed to remove problematic third molars (wisdom teeth). While some individuals experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, many develop impaction, overcrowding, infection, or pain. In the case of the latter, an oral surgeon assesses the position of the teeth using X-rays before determining the best approach for removal.
A simple extraction is often sufficient, but impacted or partially erupted teeth typically need surgical extraction. The sooner this is done, the better. Removing problematic wisdom teeth helps prevent infections, misalignment, and cyst formation, contributing to long-term oral health.
Dental implants restore smile aesthetics and help preserve jawbone density. They are popular among patients for their ability to restore bite force, chewing ability, speech clarity, and general oral health.
Maxillofacial surgery is required to get implants. The entire process involves multiple stages. The first is the surgical procedure to place the titanium posts (dental implants) into the jawbone, where they will act as artificial tooth roots. The patient will then enter the healing stage, during which the implants fuse with the jawbone. The final stage involves securing the custom prosthetic teeth — such as permanent dentures, dental crowns, or bridges — onto the implants, restoring both function and appearance.
Bone grafting helps restore a shrunken jawbone caused by missing teeth, trauma, or periodontal disease. This type of maxillofacial surgery is often necessary to support dental implants or maintain facial structure.
An oral surgeon places grafting material from the patient, a donor, or synthetic sources into the affected area. Over time, the graft integrates with existing bone to encourage natural regeneration. This process creates a strong foundation for future dental treatments, including implants, and helps prevent complications from bone loss.
Corrective jaw surgery addresses misalignment issues affecting the upper or lower jaw. This type of maxillofacial surgery is often recommended for patients experiencing difficulty with chewing, speaking, or breathing due to improper jaw positioning. It can also correct congenital abnormalities, facial asymmetry, and conditions such as an overbite or underbite.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) enables jaw movements like chewing and speaking. When TMJ disorders cause pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving the jaw, maxillofacial surgery may be needed if other treatments fail. Options range from minimally invasive procedures, such as flushing the joint to reduce inflammation, to more advanced surgeries for repairing or replacing damaged structures. TMJ surgery can relieve pain, restore function, and improve overall comfort.
There are many types of maxillofacial surgery. With each, an oral surgeon can provide the specialized care necessary for lasting results. If you have been advised to undergo a procedure, schedule a consultation with Northside Minnesota Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons today. We can help you take the next step toward improving your oral health.
Request an appointment here: https://www.northsideoms.com or call Northside Minnesota Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at (763) 284-3159 for an appointment in our Coon Rapids office.
A surgical tooth extraction may be a result of multiple issues. Teeth are not like other bones in the body that can heal to their original strength with time and a cast. While there are certain restoration techniques for damaged teeth, a surgical tooth extraction from an oral surgeon can be the most effective option…
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that bond with natural bone to support one or more replacement teeth. Dental implants can give patients functional, natural-looking teeth to help them feel more comfortable and confident in their daily activities. In addition, dental implants can last for many years with the proper care and maintenance.If you need…
A dental implant is a tooth replacement option that has been growing in popularity — and for good reason. Its long-lasting durability, seamless visual appeal, and jawbone stimulation make it useful in ways that most alternatives, such as dentures, cannot match. However, not everyone is a good candidate for a tooth implant.To understand whether an…
Bone grafting is a minor surgical treatment done under local anesthetic to replace depleted bone tissue. The grafting material may be inserted into a tooth socket just after a tooth is removed or at a location where a tooth has been absent for an extended period. Over the next few months, your body will produce…
A surgical tooth extraction may be a result of multiple issues.
Dental implants can give patients functional, natural-looking teeth to help them feel more comfortable and…
A dental implant is a tooth replacement option that has been growing in popularity —…
Bone grafting is a minor surgical treatment done under local anesthetic to replace depleted bone…
Wisdom teeth may not be a problem at all. But in some cases, the dentist…
Undergoing oral surgery can feel overwhelming, but proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a…
