When Should You See an Oral Surgeon?
Expert Insights from Facial Designs
If you’re dealing with oral health concerns that go beyond routine dental care, you might be wondering: Is it time to see an oral surgeon? General dentists take care of many everyday dental needs. However, some conditions need the special skills of a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
At Facial Designs, P.A., our specialist, Dr. Roderick VanSurksum, sees patients in his Minnetonka and Excelsior offices, serving families across Minnetonka, Excelsior, Hopkins, Chaska, Chanhassen, and Waconia. He offers complete surgical care for even the most complex conditions. Understanding when to seek specialty care can help you prevent complications, relieve chronic symptoms, and restore long-term health.
What Is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) is the most highly trained provider in dentistry, completing:
- Dental school
- A rigorous hospital-based surgical residency (4–6 years)
- Advanced training in anesthesia, facial trauma, pathology, and jaw surgery
This specialized mix of dental and medical training helps OMS providers diagnose and treat conditions of the mouth, teeth, jaws, face, and airway. Oral surgeons often collaborate with general dentists, orthodontists, periodontists, ENT specialists, and prosthodontists to create coordinated care plans.
At Facial Designs, our patients benefit from:
- Board certification
- Category 1 anesthesia capabilities (equivalent to a surgical center or hospital OR).
- 3D imaging and advanced surgical planning technologies
- A team approach between surgery, restorative dentistry, and implant care
Top Reasons to See an Oral Surgeon
Below are the most common signs you should schedule with an OMS, especially if you live in or near the Twin Cities metro.
Impacted or Painful Wisdom Teeth
Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth. Our team uses advanced imaging and IV sedation in our Class 1 facility to ensure safe, comfortable removal of wisdom teeth.
At Facial Designs, we use advanced 3D imaging and gentle surgical techniques. We also offer IV sedation for a smooth, comfortable experience.
We also use Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF). PRF is a natural healing method that uses your own platelets. It helps reduce swelling, lessen discomfort, and greatly lower the risk of dry socket.
Dental Implants for Missing Teeth
Dental implants offer a permanent solution for tooth loss. We specialize in implant placement and bone grafting procedures to restore both function and aesthetics. Dr. VanSurksum works closely with your dentist to ensure efficient communications and rapid treatment times. Dr. VanSurksum can often place an implant on the same day a tooth is extracted, greatly shortening treatment time and reducing the number of visits required.
Facial Trauma or Injury
Accidents involving the face or jaw require prompt evaluation. Our surgeon treats fractures, soft tissue injuries, and dental trauma with precision and care.
Difficulty Chewing, Speaking, or Swallowing
If you’re experiencing chronic jaw dysfunction, corrective jaw surgery may help restore balance and improve your quality of life. Dr. VanSurksum works closely with your orthodontist to ensure not only straight teeth, but straight skeletal interrelationships, so your straight teeth last a lifetime.
Chronic Infections, Cysts, or Growths
Recurring infections or suspicious oral growths should be evaluated early. We perform biopsies and surgical lesion removals to protect your health and peace of mind.
Full Mouth Rehabilitation
For patients with complex dental needs, such as extensive tooth loss or failed treatments, we collaborate with your dental team to create a customized surgical plan.
Jaw Pain, Clicking, or TMJ Disorders
Persistent jaw discomfort or clicking sounds may signal a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or misalignment. Oral surgeons can diagnose and treat these issues with surgical or non-surgical options.
Why Choose Facial Designs?
With two convenient locations across the Twin Cities metro, our compassionate team is committed to delivering advanced, patient-centered care. Whether you’re considering dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, or need help with jaw pain, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Patients and dentists choose Facial Designs because we offer:
Board-Certified Expertise
Dr. VanSurksum has advanced surgical training and was a general dentist. This gives him a strong understanding of restorative needs. He also communicates well with referring dentists.
Category 1 Anesthesia Facility
We offer hospital-level safety standards for anesthesia, including IV sedation, ensuring comfort for even the most anxious patients.
Advanced Technology
3D imaging, digital planning, and advanced surgical protocols lead to faster healing and more predictable outcomes.
Collaborative Care
Our Dr. Duo model combines a board-certified oral surgeon and a certified prosthodontist, Dr. Clark Gold. This team can offer complete treatment from surgery to final restoration. This integrated approach leads to more precise planning, better outcomes, and a more comfortable patient experience.
General dentists in the Twin Cities work with Facial Designs. They trust that their patients will get expert care at every step.
Ready to schedule your consultation?
Contact Facial Designs today. We serve patients throughout the Twin Cities with offices located in Excelsior and Minnetonka.
FAQ: Oral Surgery Basics
Do I need a referral to see an oral surgeon?
Not always. We work closely with all referring general dentists, but here at Facial Designs, we also offer the option to schedule directly with our office. While some insurance plans require a referral, many patients can schedule directly.
Is oral surgery painful?
We prioritize your comfort with options like I.V. sedation and local anesthesia. Most patients report minimal discomfort and a smooth recovery. Your comfort before, during, and after the procedure is of utmost importance to us.
How long is the recovery time after wisdom tooth removal or dental implant placement?
Recovery varies by procedure. Most patients can resume normal activities within 3-4 days of their procedure. Wisdom tooth removal typically takes a few days, while dental implants may require several months for full integration.
Can oral surgeons help with sleep apnea or snoring?
Yes. Dr. VanSurksum is a sleep apnea specialist and offers all surgical and non-surgical modalities to treat sleep apnea. Doctors can treat some cases of obstructive sleep apnea surgically. We’ll work with your sleep specialist to determine the best approach.
