When to See an Oral Surgeon
When should you go see an oral surgeon?
Maintaining a healthy smile usually starts with your twice-yearly dental cleanings. But sometimes, your oral health needs go beyond what a general dentist provides.
While your dentist focuses on preventative care and routine fillings, an oral surgeon steps in for more complex situations. Think of us as the specialists who handle the "heavy lifting" of dental care. At the Center for Oral Surgery + Dental Implants, we serve the Greater Grand Rapids and Rockford areas, helping patients restore their health and get back to their normal quality of life.
What Exactly Is an Oral Surgeon?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist who goes through years of additional training after dental school. This includes a hospital-based residency where they work alongside medical doctors in emergency medicine, general surgery, and anesthesiology.
This deep background means oral surgeons are experts in everything from dental implants to corrective jaw surgery. We focus on a level of precision and safety that goes far beyond traditional dental training. You can meet our team to learn more about the expertise we bring to our practice.
common reasons you might need an oral surgeon
Problematic Wisdom Teeth
This is the most common reason people visit us. When there isn’t enough room for these teeth to grow in, they are "impacted," causing pain, swelling, or infection. Removing wisdom teeth in the teenage years is usually much easier before the roots have fully set.
Difficult Tooth Extractions
While many dentists pull teeth, some cases are more complicated. If a tooth is broken below the gum line or has curved roots, a specialist is needed to remove it safely without damaging the surrounding bone or nerves.
Dental Implants
If you’re looking to replace a missing tooth, an oral surgeon is the ideal choice. Because implants are placed directly into the jawbone, the process requires an expert understanding of bone structure. We can also perform bone grafting to make sure your new smile has a solid foundation.
Jaw Pain and TMJ
If your jaw clicks, pops, or locks, it could be a TMJ disorder. When mouthguards or physical therapy don’t help, we can evaluate if a surgical fix is the right path to end your chronic pain.
Facial Injuries
Accidents happen. Whether it’s a sports injury or a household mishap, oral surgeons specialize in reconstructive surgery. We work to fix both the function of your bite and the appearance of your face.
Sores or Lumps (Oral Pathology)
If you notice a suspicious spot, lump, or sore in your mouth that hasn’t healed in around two weeks, come see us. We perform quick biopsies to get you answers and ensure you receive the right treatment as soon as possible.
signs it’s time to schedule a consultation
Knowing when to move from your regular dentist to a specialist can save you months of discomfort. You should consider a visit if you have:
Persistent jaw pain or "locking."
Recurring infections near your back teeth.
A facial injury from an accident or sports.
A sore or growth in your mouth that won't go away.
While many of our patients are referred by their general dentist, you can always reach out to us directly—especially if you're interested in the permanent benefits of dental implants.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
We want your first visit to be completely stress-free. It’s really just an information-gathering session. We use scans to get a clear look at your anatomy, discuss your treatment options in detail, and answer every question you have. We’ll also give you a clear breakdown of insurance and payment options so there are no surprises.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Oral Surgeon?
Choosing a board-certified specialist means you’re getting the highest standard of care. From advanced sedation options that keep you comfortable to the latest techniques that help you heal faster, our office is built to handle complex cases with ease. We are committed to making sure every patient has a safe, successful outcome.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re dealing with a painful wisdom tooth or you're ready to reclaim your smile with implants, the Center for Oral Surgery + Dental Implants is here for you.
