Maxillofacial surgery: the need for early diagnosis and treatment

Oral and maxillofacial surgery or more commonly known as “maxillofacial surgery” is a key specialty with a wide range of operations including extraction of teeth and wisdom teeth, dental implants, corrective operations of the jawbone, the repair of fractures and the treatment of pathological conditions such as tumors and infections.

One of the most important factors influencing treatment success in maxillofacial surgery is early diagnosis and treatment.

Orthognathic surgery

For example, cases of deformities or asymmetries of the jaws, in addition to the disharmony of facial aesthetics, are accompanied by difficulties in speaking, chewing and breathing, or even the manifestation of sleep apnea. Early diagnosis of maxillofacial anomalies is essential for preoperative preparation and definitive orthognathic surgery. Corrective surgery restores the symmetry and relationship of the jaws, ensures the proper appearance and function of patients, and improves their quality of life.

Oral cancer

Oral cancer is a relatively rare but aggressive form of cancer found in the oral cavity. Other sites of head and neck cancer are the lips, facial skin, and salivary glands. Smoking and alcohol abuse are the most important predisposing factors. A significant percentage of oral cancer patients can be cured if diagnosed early. Lesions in the mouth such as a white or red plaque, an ulcer without obvious injury or other etiology, swelling of the mouth or throat, pain or blood, are suspicious and the patient should consult their doctor immediately. The delay in diagnosis is the most unfavorable prognostic factor.

Guardians

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to appear in the mouth after puberty. While for many people third molars cause no symptoms, for others they are associated with significant problems. Inflammation such as periosteum, tooth decay in the same or adjacent tooth, and development of cysts are common reasons for extraction. Also, the presence of jammed wisdom teeth, according to many experts, seems to be one of the factors that cause the crowding of the front teeth and the recurrence of orthodontic treatments during their period of eruption. In all cases, the patient must be informed of the indications and the interest of early surgical extraction of wisdom teeth.

Dental implants

A popular topic in oral and maxillofacial surgery in which early intervention has a vital role are dental implants. The immediate restoration of the dentition is important because it avoids the resorption of the jaw bone after dental extractions, prevents convergence disorders and unwanted movements of the adjacent teeth, restores function and the smile. Overall, placing dental implants early simplifies treatment and avoids the need for complex and expensive treatment plans.

Facial injuries

Facial and jaw injuries are common these days. Maxillofacial injuries require immediate diagnosis and appropriate treatment so that soft tissue and jawbone restoration and healing can begin quickly. Long-term complications, deformities and functional problems are avoided.

in conclusion

Unfortunately, nowadays, despite continuous health awareness campaigns, patients, out of fear or ignorance, do not consult a doctor in time. The oral and maxillofacial surgeon should inform the patient of the benefits of early treatment, but patients should also not neglect regular screening and immediate examination if they notice any changes or damage in their mouth or their face.

HYGEIA, understanding the need for immediate and easy public access to high quality healthcare services, has a fully organized department of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The medical team monitors the pioneering developments of the specialty and with responsibility and commitment to the needs of the patient, is at your disposal for consultation.

It is written by
Dimitrios Mastagas
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon
Scientific Associate HEALTH