The Difference Between Seeing Your Dentist & An Oral Surgeon

So, you need to get a procedure done and some people may tell you to just go to your dentist, while others may tell you to go to an oral surgeon. Here’s the difference:

The main scope of work for General Dentists includes:

  • Oral exams
  • Teeth cleanings
  • Sealants
  • Crowns
  • Fillings
  • Root canals
  • Gum care

Your dentist may also perform minor surgical procedures, tooth extractions, and dental implants.

When it comes to oral surgeons, they usually have extensive training in one or more particular areas. The main scope of work for Oral Surgeons includes:

  • Dental implants
  • Tooth extraction, including impacted teeth
  • Abscessed teeth
  • Traumatic injury
  • Restructuring of bone and gum tissue
  • Jaw misalignment
  • Bone loss
  • Chronic diseases or conditions of the mouth
  • Oral cancer and removal of tumors

Some oral and maxillofacial surgeons will require referrals for all patients, which you would get from either your dentist or doctor. Exceptions may be able to be made for emergencies.

For more information about your specific situation, call your dentist or nearby oral surgeon’s office. For oral surgery in Surrey, call us at New England Oral & Cosmetic Facial Surgery: 604-507-0514.