Patients see oral surgeons for a range of different reasons. Often, the precipitating factor is a referral from a dentist, orthodontist, or periodontist. If one of these providers encounters an oral health concern that can only be addressed via surgery, they may recommend you visit an oral surgeon’s office, where you can benefit from the highest standards of clinical precision, safety, and care.
However, there are many situations where patients seek oral surgery without having a referral or seeing another provider first. In fact, there are several commonplace oral health concerns that tend to require surgical care, making it perfectly prudent to schedule an appointment with a practice like Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center.
When to See an Oral Surgeon without a Referral
Missing Teeth
If you are missing one or more teeth or you anticipate the need to have a tooth extracted, you can meet with an oral surgeon to discuss your options for dental implant placement. Implants represent the best option for tooth replacement, providing long-lasting and natural-looking restoration. Generally, dental implants are placed by oral surgeons.
Oral Pathology
Oral surgeons have the clinical knowledge required to perform oral cancer exams and other oral pathology screenings. If you notice an unusual or unexplainable growth or texture in your mouth, you should visit an oral surgeon to receive clarity and peace of mind.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Oral surgeons also provide the clinical skill required to remove your wisdom teeth, all while promoting your overall comfort, safety, and well-being. Most people get their wisdom teeth in their late teens or early twenties, and it is usually best to have them removed proactively to avoid complications down the road.
Additional Oral Surgery Procedures
You can also visit an oral surgeon to see if any of the following treatments are right for you or your dependents:
- Frenectomy. A frenectomy is performed to cut the tongue tie or lip tie. This procedure can be performed for infants or young children to remove any barriers to healthy eating and speech development.
- Orthognathic Surgery. Corrective jaw surgery may be needed to address any issue of misalignment, including genetic abnormalities.
- Facial Trauma Reconstruction. Oral surgeons can assist in rebuilding the mouth and face after a traumatic facial injury.
Seek Care from Experienced Oral Surgeons in Michigan
At Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center, our oral surgeons are always happy to meet with patients, listen to their needs and concerns, and recommend the best treatment options. We invite you to learn more about the range of services offered by our oral surgeons.