Procedures
Pathology
OMS are trained to diagnose and treat diseases of the face, mouth and jaws.
Many patients may undergo initial screening through their dentist, family physician or other dental and medical specialist prior to being referred to an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Referral to an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon can be for identification and proper diagnosis of any abnormal soft or hard tissue finding in the region of the mouth, jaw, face or neck. After an initial clinical assessment with a surgeon there may be a need for further investigation, including, but not limited to:
- Special imaging: x-rays, panorex, CT scans, MRI, PET or bone scans
- Further screening tests: endoscopy, light amplification to identify tissue abnormalities (ex. Velscope) and brush biopsies (similar to Pap tests)
- Surgical biopsy with partial or complete removal to help identify the lesion/abnormality
An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is a surgical specialist with expertise in the mouth, face and jaws. In addition, some Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons undergo additional complex head and neck, and microvascular surgical training to offer patients comprehensive jaw and face reconstruction, and oral rehabilitation care.