What is the primary concern of oral and maxillofacial surgery?

The primary concern of oral and maxillofacial surgery is to handle the surgical treatment of oral and facial structures. This surgical specialty encompasses a wide range of procedures designed to address issues related to the mouth, jaws, and face, including trauma, corrective jaw surgery, pathology, and reconstructive surgery following injury or disease. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to diagnose and address complex surgical conditions involving both the hard and soft tissues of the face and oral cavity, making their expertise crucial for patients requiring such interventions.

In contrast, treating gum diseases is typically the domain of periodontics, while cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving and enhancing the appearance of a person’s smile without necessarily addressing functional aspects. Orthodontic corrections are specific to the alignment of teeth and jaws, primarily handled by orthodontists, rather than requiring invasive surgical techniques as encompassed in oral and maxillofacial surgery.