The practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the mouth, jaws, face, and skull. This specialized field requires extensive training beyond general dentistry. For example, individuals in this field perform extractions, manage facial trauma, and correct jaw deformities.
The significance of this surgical specialty lies in its ability to improve patients’ overall oral health, alleviate pain, and enhance facial aesthetics, thereby boosting self-esteem and quality of life. Historically, the need for this specialized care has grown alongside advancements in medical and dental technology, allowing for increasingly complex and effective procedures.