Can a General Dentist Perform Oral Surgery?
Posted on 7/4/2022 by OM |
 When you visit a dentist, and oral surgery is recommended, do you need to consult a specialist? Can you allow a dentist to perform the procedure? These are vital questions that patients need to consider when presenting a dentist with a dental problem. Most patients don't know that both a general dentist and an oral surgeon perform different tasks. However, you'll be surprised to learn that dentists are more capable than you think.
The Difference Between a General Dentist and Oral Surgeon
A general dentist might have a degree under Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). While most patients might find this confusing, both degrees are the same. The university that a dentist attends determines the degree awarded, but it doesn't mean that they have received further education. Although general dentists have not specialized in oral surgery, they have received extensive training in performing specific procedures.
On the other hand, oral and maxillofacial surgeons have extensive surgical procedures on the mouth, face, and jaw. They can also perform other procedures such as dental implant placement, complex extractions and tooth extractions, soft tissue biopsies, dental implant placement, and removal of tumors.
Oral surgeons are required to complete a surgical residency to gain sufficient experience in surgeries. Due to the complexity of the surgical procedures performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeries, they also receive additional IV sedation and anesthesia training.
Surgical Procedures Performed by a General Dentist
General dentists might not be surgeons, but they are capable of providing basic oral procedures. This makes them effective in addressing a range of complications requiring an appointment with a surgeon. Some of the surgical procedures performed by dentists include tooth extraction and dental implants. It is advisable to inquire if the service you require is offered by the dentist so that you book an appointment with a specialist if it's not offered.
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