Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery or more commonly known as “Maxillofacial Surgery” is a key specialty with a wide range of operations, including extraction of teeth and wisdom teeth, dental implants, jaw corrective operations, fracture repair and treatment of pathological conditions such as tumors and infections.
One of the most important factors that influence the success of treatment in Maxillofacial Surgery is early diagnosis and treatment.
Orthognathic surgery
For example, cases of jaw deformities or asymmetries, in addition to facial aesthetic disharmony, are accompanied by difficulty speaking, chewing, and breathing, even leading to the manifestation of sleep apnea. Early diagnosis of maxillofacial anomalies is essential for preoperative preparation and definitive orthognathic surgery. Corrective surgery restores the symmetry and relationship of the jaws, ensures the good appearance and function of patients and improves their quality of life.
mouth cancer
Oral cancer is a relatively rare but aggressive form of cancer found in the oral cavity. Other cancer sites in the head and neck area include the lips, facial skin, and salivary glands. Smoking and alcohol abuse are the most important predisposing factors. A significant percentage of patients with oral cancer can be cured if diagnosed early. Lesions in the mouth such as a white or red plaque, an ulcer with no obvious lesion or other etiology, swelling in the mouth or throat, pain, or blood, are suspicious and the patient should see their doctor immediately. The delay in diagnosis is the most unfavorable prognostic factor.
guardians
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to appear in the mouth after puberty. While for many people third molars cause no symptoms, for others they are associated with significant problems. Inflammation such as the periosteum, dental caries in the same tooth or an adjacent tooth, and the development of cysts are common reasons for extraction. Likewise, the presence of trapped wisdom teeth, according to many experts, seems to be one of the factors that causes crowding of the front teeth and the recurrence of orthodontic treatment during their eruption period. In any case, the patient should be informed of the indications and benefit of early surgical removal of wisdom teeth.
Dental implants
A popular topic in oral and maxillofacial surgery, in which early intervention plays an essential role, is dental implants. Immediate restoration of the dentition is important because it prevents jaw bone resorption after tooth extractions, prevents convergence disorder and unwanted movement of adjacent teeth, restores function and smile. In general, early placement of dental implants simplifies treatment and avoids the need for complex and expensive treatment plans.
facial injuries
Injuries to the face and jaw area are common these days. Maxillofacial injuries require immediate diagnosis and proper treatment so that restoration and healing of the soft tissues and jaws can begin quickly. Long-term complications, deformities and functional problems are prevented.
in conclusion
Unfortunately, today despite the continuous health awareness campaigns, patients due to fear or ignorance do not seek medical attention on time. The oral and maxillofacial surgeon must inform the patient about the benefit of an early treatment, but also the patients must not neglect the periodic detection and the immediate examination if they notice any change or damage in the mouth or face.
HYGEIA, understanding the need for immediate and easy public access to high quality health services, has a fully organized Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. The medical team accompanies the pioneering developments of the specialty and with responsibility and commitment to the needs of the patient, is at your disposal for consultations.
is written by
dimitrios mastagas
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
HEALTH Scientific Associate