What’s the Difference Between a General Dentist and an Oral Surgeon?

The main difference between a general dentist and an oral surgeon is their training and type of care they provide. General dentists provide routine preventive and restorative dental treatment, while oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete additional surgical training to diagnose and treat conditions involving the teeth, jaws, mouth, and surrounding facial structures.

General Dentists Manage Routine and Restorative Dental Care

General dentists provide ongoing care to maintain oral health and treat common dental problems. Depending on the dentist’s training and practice, general dental care may include:

• Dental examinations and X-rays
• Teeth cleanings and preventive care
• Fillings
• Crowns and bridges
• Root canal treatment
• Gum disease care
• Dentures and other restorations
• Simple tooth extractions

When a condition requires care outside their scope, a general dentist can refer you to the appropriate dental specialist.

Oral Surgeons Have Additional Surgical Training

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon completes dental school followed by several additional years of hospital-based surgical training. 

This training prepares oral surgeons to perform surgical procedures involving the teeth, jaws, mouth, and surrounding structures. It also includes training in anesthesia, sedation, surgical complications, and evaluating the relationship between teeth and nearby nerves, the sinuses, and bone.

What Procedures Does an Oral Surgeon Perform?

Oral surgeons treat conditions that require surgical or specialized evaluation. The exact services vary by practice, but common procedures include:

• Wisdom teeth removal and complex tooth extractions
• Dental implant placement
• Dental bone grafting
• Oral pathology evaluations and biopsies
• Exposure of impacted teeth for orthodontic treatment
• Treatment for certain TMJ conditions

Oral surgeons may also provide sedation and anesthesia when appropriate for the procedure and patient.

Why Would a Dentist Refer You to an Oral Surgeon?

Your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon when a condition requires specialized surgical training, anesthesia, or more complex treatment planning. 

For example, you may be referred when:

• A tooth is impacted or difficult to remove
• Tooth roots are close to a nerve or the sinus
• An extraction has an increased risk of complications
• Bone grafting is needed for a dental implant
• An unusual area in the mouth requires a biopsy
• Sedation or anesthesia may be appropriate
• A surgical complication requires additional care

The oral surgeon can evaluate the condition, review the available imaging, and determine the appropriate surgical approach.

General Dentists and Oral Surgeons Can Work Together

General dentists and oral surgeons often handle different stages of the same treatment rather than providing competing forms of care.

Dental implants are a good example. At Concord Oral Surgery, Dr. Robert Barron evaluates the implant site and available bone and performs the surgical placement of the implant. After healing, he will check the stability of the implant before referring the patient back to their dentist for the final crown.

Do You Need a Referral to See an Oral Surgeon?

You do not always need a referral to see an oral surgeon. At Concord Oral Surgery, you can contact the office directly to schedule a consultation. This may be helpful if you are looking for a second opinion or have been told you need oral surgery but were not referred to a specific surgeon.

Some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so it is a good idea to check your plan before scheduling.

When Specialized Surgical Care Is Needed

If you have been referred for oral surgery or are unsure whether you need specialized care, Dr. Barron can evaluate your condition and explain your treatment options. He has practised oral and maxillofacial surgery in Vaughan since 2004 and provides care based on each patient’s individual needs.

To schedule an appointment at our oral surgery office in Vaughan, call (905) 669-2616 or visit us at 3300 Hwy 7 W #805, Vaughan, ON L4K 4M3.

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