Get to know our team!
Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Dr. Trevor Paskett, DMD, MD – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist who diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and the hard and soft tissues of the oral (mouth) and maxillofacial (jaws and face) region.
Is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon a medical doctor?
Some oral and maxillofacial surgeons earn a medical degree (MD) in addition to their dental qualifications, but it's not a requirement for all practitioners in the field.
What type of training does an oral and maxillofacial surgeon have?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon typically completes:
- 4 years of undergraduate education
- 4 years of dental school to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree
- A 4-to-6-year surgical residency program, which may include medical education and the option to complete a medical degree (MD) concurrently
- Some may also complete fellowships in sub-specialty areas.
What conditions does an oral and maxillofacial surgeon treat?
These specialists treat various conditions, including impacted teeth, dental implants, facial pain, facial injuries, TMJ disorders, and oral cancer, among others.
What types of surgeries do oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform?
They perform a range of surgeries, from minor procedures like tooth extractions to complex surgeries involving facial reconstruction or cosmetic surgery.
How do oral and maxillofacial surgeons work with other healthcare professionals?
They often collaborate with dentists, orthodontists, ENTs, and plastic surgeons, providing comprehensive care for conditions affecting the oral and maxillofacial region.
When should I be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Referrals are typically made for complex dental extractions, implant placement, orthognathic surgery, trauma surgery, or cancer-related procedures.
What is the difference between an oral surgeon and a general dentist?
An oral surgeon has additional specialized training and experience in surgical procedures involving the mouth, face, and jaws beyond what is taught in general dental education.
How do I know if my oral surgeon is qualified?
You can inquire about their education, residency, board certification, and any additional training. It's also appropriate to ask about their experience with the specific procedure you need.
What is the typical recovery time for procedures performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons?
Recovery time varies significantly depending on the procedure's complexity, with some requiring only a few days and others necessitating weeks or months for full recovery.
