OMS Vs. Dentist
What’s The Difference Between An OMS And A Dentist?
A dentist is a trained professional who is dedicated to helping care for the teeth and mouth. Their formal training to become a dentist takes about six to eight years. Dentists treat a variety of problems involving teeth and gums, as well as provide patients with advice on how to upkeep their oral health.
An oral and maxillofacial (OMS) is a dental specialist who completes at least four years at a hospital-based residency after completing dental school. An OMS receives extended education and training to diagnose and treat patients with complications encompassing the teeth, jaw, oral cavity, and associated facial structures.
When to Visit an OMS
When a patient experiences problems beyond the scope of a general dentist’s expertise, they are referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. OMS specialists perform a variety of procedures and treat a variety of issues including:
• Tooth extractions
• Wisdom teeth management/extractions
• TMJ and facial pain
• Dental implants
• Oral soft-tissue surgery
• Administration of anesthesia
• Facial cosmetic surgery
• Corrective jaw surgery
• Facial injury and trauma surgery
• Oral, head, and neck pathology
• Surgery to aid orthodontics
• Cleft lip/palate surgery
• Craniofacial surgery
• Extractions and dentoalveolar surgery
• Obstructive sleep apnea
When to Visit the Dentist
It is recommended by the American Dental Association that individuals visit the dentist twice a year to maintain good oral health. We encourage patients to visit their dentists for the following:
• Routine teeth cleanings and checkups to assess the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
• Root canals
• Dentures
• Restorations to injured teeth (i.e., fillings and crowns)
Please note that there is commonality in their respective areas of care, but it should be noted that the surgical and anesthesia scope of an OMS specialist is beyond that of dentists. When patients need consideration outside general maintenance and restoration, it is recommended that an OMS specialist is visited.
Submit Your Appointment Request
Utah Specialty Dental Group practices a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise extending from corrective jaw surgery to wisdom tooth removal. At USDG, we can also diagnose and treat facial pain, facial injuries, TMJ disorders, and perform a full range of dental implant and bone grafting procedures. Please feel free to contact us are your earliest convenience to schedule a consultation.
