Oral Surgeon vs. Dentist

Oral surgery and dentistry are both necessary specialties in the field of oral health. Though they share some similarities, there are some key differences between the two. But which one is right for you? It really depends on your needs and what you're looking for in a doctor. Let's find out what draws the line between oral surgeon vs. dentist.

Dentists

When it comes to dental medicine, dentists serve as primary care providers. They are trained to perform a wide variety of procedures, and you may expect to receive comprehensive screenings for oral health issues, X-rays, and teeth cleaning. Most often, they provide root canals, gum care, crowns, bridges, dental fillings, and veneers.

For more complex surgeries, they typically refer patients to an oral surgeon. In some cases, however, a dentist may have completed additional training in oral surgery and be able to perform certain types of surgery in their own practice.

Oral Surgeons

Oral surgeons, on the other hand, are dentists who have gone through additional training in order to perform surgery on the mouth, teeth, and jaws.

Oral surgeons must complete four years of dental school and then four to six years of residency training in order to be eligible for certification by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. This specialized training equips oral surgeons with the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and effectively perform surgery on the mouth, teeth, and jaws.

Some of the most common procedures performed by oral surgeons include wisdom tooth extractions, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery. Oral surgeons are also often called upon to treat facial trauma, such as fractures and lacerations.

Conclusion

This is our take on oral surgeon vs. dentist. You should now be in a much better position to make a decision regarding whom to consult for your oral health complications.