For many people, a loose tooth, tooth pain, or even general oral discomfort might bring back memories of anxiety-inducing visits to the dentist. It also can be challenging to find time to visit a dentist, let alone schedule time to see a specialist. It is essential to know that when unexpected dental and oral health issues arise, you may benefit more from a visit to a nearby oral surgeon than your general dentist. If a condition pertains to oral health or the overall wellness of the head, neck, jaw, or face, it may be wise to consult an oral surgeon. Patients should visit surgical professionals – not their family dentist – for these more complicated procedures. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMSs/Oral Surgeons) are the surgical specialists of the dental profession, undergoing extensive training that begins with dental school and then spends a minimum of four to six additional years in a hospital-based surgical residency program. Many also become board-certified, seek further degrees, or complete fellowships for a subspecialty. An oral surgeon is truly the dental expert, in face, mouth and jaw surgery. Board-Certified and Ivy League trained Oral Surgeons Dr. Suketu J. Patel, DMD, MD, and Dr. Rodrigo L. Uribe, DMD at East Georgia Oral Surgery are on staff at East Georgia Regional Medical Center and Emanuel Medical Center to deliver emergency room coverage to Swainsboro and surrounding areas. Our doctors provide complete Oral Surgery care, including: ▸▸ Dental Implants ▸▸ Teeth-In-A-Day ▸▸ Wisdom Teeth Management and Extraction ▸ Administration of anesthesia ▸ BOTOX Cosmetic ▸ Cleft lip/palate and craniofacial surgery ▸ Common oral surgeries (e.g., frenectomy, expose and bond, bone grafting) ▸ Corrective jaw surgery ▸ Facial cosmetic surgery ▸ Facial injury and trauma surgery ▸ Impacted canines ▸ Obstructive sleep apnea ▸ Oral, head and neck pathology ▸ Pediatric oral surgery ▸ Pre-prosthetic surgery ▸ TMJ and facial pain ▸ Tooth extractions ▸ 3D Imaging While there is an overlap in their respective areas of care, it should be noted that the surgical and anesthesia scope of oral surgeons is beyond that of dentists. If you need attention beyond simple maintenance and repair provided by your general dentist, it may be time to visit an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Trust East Georgia Center for Oral & Facial Surgery—your care is in good hands.