What exactly is oral and maxillofacial surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is part of a “trinity” that also includes oral and facial surgery. This field is known as MGK surgery or craniomaxillofacial surgery. It deals not only with functional issues such as chewing, swallowing, or speaking, but can also extend into the realm of aesthetics.
This becomes necessary when injuries, diseases, or malocclusions require cosmetic corrections. A complicated jaw fracture or even a tumor may necessitate plastic surgery.
To perform procedures in the field of maxillofacial surgery, a physician must pass a board certification exam, which is preceded by five years of specialized training.
Another characteristic of general maxillofacial surgery is the involvement of specialists from other fields. This is indicated when adjacent areas, such as the ear, nose, and throat region, must be taken into account during treatment. Since maxillofacial surgery covers such a broad spectrum, it is not uncommon for physicians in German-speaking countries to hold dual board certifications.
In which areas is oral and maxillofacial surgery used?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery can be used for several conditions, such as jaw reconstruction. This may be necessary in cases of tooth loss or when bone tissue is compromised and damaged by diseases such as periodontitis. Even when a patient has an implant, bone loss can occur, making a bone graft necessary.
Another area of application is prognathism. This term refers to a jaw misalignment that is equivalent to a reverse overbite. Misaligned teeth and an improper relationship between the upper and lower jaws can contribute to this problem, which naturally calls for orthognathic surgery.
Mandibular retrognathia is also among the indications. This term is used when the lower jaw is positioned too far back, making correction necessary. However, this term is not a diagnosis in itself, as it can be further subdivided into various subcategories.
Closely related is genioplasty, a procedure in which the chin is reshaped. This procedure may be necessary in cases of prognathism or mandibular retrognathia. In this treatment method, also known as chin augmentation, implants made of various materials are used. These include, among others, silicone or Gore-Tex.
Cleft lip and palate, colloquially known as a “hare lip” or “wolf’s mouth,” is one of the most common congenital malformations in humans. A distinction is made between different types of clefts, and their treatment involves not only an orthodontist but also ENT specialists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and speech-language pathologists to ensure comprehensive care.
At 10 to 15%, cleft lip and palate is the second most common congenital malformation worldwide @ MartinRoe /AdobeStock
The following areas fall under the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery:
- Prognathism
- Mandibular retrognathia
- Cleft lip and palate
- Jaw reconstruction
Conclusion—Finding a specialist is of great importance
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a highly complex field that encompasses other subspecialties. For this reason, it is very important for patients to consult a physician who is an expert in this field. This physician will then be the one to consult additional specialists, if necessary, to ensure a successful course of treatment.
