About
Maxillofacial surgeons, sometimes called oral and maxillofacial surgeons, are trained to handle a wide variety of conditions and injuries that affect the head, neck, mouth, jaw, and face.
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Reasons to See a Maxillofacial Surgeon
There are a few reasons you might see a maxillofacial surgeon. Here are a few reasons why people end up seeing a maxillofacial surgeon.
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Skeletal Problems
Most maxillofacial surgeons work at least in part to help correct skeletal problems such as misaligned jaws. If you have chronic temporomandibular joint pain, known as TMJ, your dentist may refer you to a maxillofacial surgeon.
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Facial, Oral, or Neck Cancer
Cancers of the face, neck, and jaw are often removed by maxillofacial surgeons. These specialists have the training to remove the tumor without damaging the delicate nerves that run throughout your head and neck.
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Reconstructive Surgery
If you get in an accident and injure your face, you may end up getting maxillofacial surgery. Some of these surgeons specialize in reconstructive surgery to repair broken jaws, cheekbones, and teeth. Maxillofacial surgeons can also insert dental implants to replace teeth that are lost entirely.
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Cosmetic Surgery
Finally, maxillofacial surgeons can also treat cosmetic problems. If you are interested in getting dental implants or simply changing the profile of your face, you may end up working with one of these doctors to achieve your appearance goals.