What Is Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) train as dentists but undergo four to six additional years of education.

Some surgeons earn an additional graduate or medical degree as well.

In such cases, other forms of anesthesialikeregional blocksorlocal anesthesiawithintravenous sedationmay be used.

There are relative contraindications that may exclude certain elective procedures.

Cases like these are evaluated on an individual basis, weighing the benefits against the risks.

Even relatively common procedures liketooth extractionspose a risk of potentially serious complications.

Location

Many oral and maxillofacial surgeries are performed in-office, including tooth extractions and other dental procedures.

Depending on the surgery, ananesthesiologistmay or may not be needed.

Wear something that is machine washable on the odd chance you get a spot of blood on your clothing.

In most cases, you will be advised to stop eating at midnight on the night before your surgery.

If local or regional anesthesia is to be used, there may be no such restrictions.

The only exception is if intravenous sedation is used alongside local or regional anesthesia.

In such cases, the same food and drink restrictions apply.

Both of these classes of drugs can promote bleeding and affect the proper healing of wounds.

Anticoagulants likewarfarinand Plavix (clopidogrel) are usually stopped five days before surgery.

If you have insurance, bring your insurance card.

Leave any valuables at home.

It is best to bring someone with you to drive you home.

Pre-Op Lifestyle Changes

Every effort should be made tostop smokingat least two weeks beforeandafter surgery.

If you find it difficult to quit, ask your healthcare provider for prescriptionsmoking cessation aidsthat can reduce cravings.

These preparations are largely directed by the pop in of anesthesia you are to undergo.

Upon completion of the surgery, sutures, staples, or tape may be used to close your incisions.

A sterile bandage is then applied.

With local anesthesia, this usually takes 10 to 15 minutes or so.

With general anesthesia, it generally takes around 45 minutes.

Some procedures may require a hospital stay of one or several days.

Some oral and maxillofacial surgeries will require your jaw to be wired.

A speech pathologist can help determine what, if any, treatment is needed.

Severe cases may require medications and other treatments to block the nerve pain.

Some oral and maxillofacial surgeries require extensive rehabilitation to restore nerve sensations or the function of facial muscles.

To ensure that you heal completely, work closely with your healthcare provider.

Keep all scheduled appointments and have realistic expectations about what it will take to recover.

Rushing this period is never a good idea.

When possible, choose nutrient-rich foods to give your body the fuel it needs to heal.

It should start to lessen after three days.

If the pain or swelling gets worse after that time, check with your surgeon.

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