General Dentist Vs Oral Surgeon:

The main difference between an oral surgeon and a general dentist lies in their scope of practice, level of training, and the types of procedures they perform.

General Dentist:

General dentists are primary dental care providers who focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral health issues.

They typically perform routine dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, root canals, and extractions.

General dentists often provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages and refer patients to specialists when necessary.

Oral Surgeon (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon):

Oral surgeons are dental specialists who undergo additional years of surgical training beyond dental school.

They specialize in performing surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and facial structures.

Oral surgeons commonly perform procedures such as tooth extractions (including impacted wisdom teeth), dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, facial trauma repair, and treatment of oral pathology.

They often work closely with other medical professionals, such as orthodontists, prosthodontists, and ENT surgeons, to provide comprehensive care for complex cases.

In summary, while general dentists provide primary dental care and perform routine procedures, oral surgeons are specialized in surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. If a dental issue requires surgical intervention or falls outside the scope of general dental practice, a referral to an oral surgeon may be necessary.