A maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist who diagnoses and treats diseases and injuries affecting the soft tissues of the face and oral cavity, bones of the facial skeleton, jaws, salivary glands, temporomandibular joints, and facial nerves.
Consultation with a specialist may be necessary for a variety of symptoms or conditions in this area. In many cases, early examination allows for more accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
👉 Detailed on topic: What is oral and maxillofacial surgery
Symptoms that require attention
A visit to a maxillofacial surgeon is recommended in the presence of the following symptoms:
- a non-healing wound in the face, lips or oral cavity that does not respond for more than two weeks
- swelling or „lump“ in the face, mouth or neck area
- pain in the jaw or face
- difficulty opening the mouth
- numbness or decreased sensitivity of the lips, chin or other parts of the face
- limited movement of the lower jaw
- facial trauma after a blow or accident
- changes in the lining of the mouth - spots, sores or growths
- suspicion of cysts or tumour growths in the oral cavity or jaws
Early diagnosis is essential for the successful treatment of many diseases in the maxillofacial region.
When consultation with a specialist is necessary
Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon may also be necessary in cases where:
- the dentist or GP identifies a condition that requires surgical treatment
- has a diagnostic problem requiring specialised competencies
- surgical treatment of tumours, cysts or other pathological formations is required
- salivary gland diseases are suspected
- there are disorders in the function of the temporomandibular joint
- trauma, bone fractures or deformities require treatment
In such cases, the specialist performs a clinical examination and determines the necessary diagnostic and treatment steps
How the examination proceeds
Examination by a maxillofacial surgeon includes a detailed medical history, clinical examination of the maxillofacial area and, if necessary, the appointment of additional examinations.
👉 Detailed on topic: How the examination with an oral or maxillofacial surgeon proceeds
What studies can be appointed
Depending on the specific case, various imaging or laboratory tests may be ordered to assist in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Among the most commonly used imaging methods are:
- panoramic radiography - orthopantomography (OPG)
- computed tomography (CT)
- cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- ultrasonographic examination
👉 Detailed on topic: What tests are done before maxillofacial surgery
A timely visit to a specialist is important as many diseases in the maxillofacial region can progress without pronounced symptoms in their initial stages. Early diagnosis allows more effective treatment and reduces the risk of complications.
Author:
Bulgarian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery