Most of us are familiar with what a dentist does—cleanings, fillings, crowns, and helping us maintain healthy teeth and gums. But when it comes to more complex procedures like removing wisdom teeth, placing dental implants, or correcting jaw problems, you may be referred to an oral surgeon. So what exactly sets oral surgeons apart from general dentists?

At The Oral Surgery Institute of the Carolinas, we hear this question often—and it’s a good one. Let’s break it down in everyday terms so you can understand the key differences and why your care may involve both professionals.

Education and Training: Oral Surgeons Go Further

Dentists and oral surgeons both start their careers in dental school. However, once dental school is complete, the paths begin to diverge.

Dentists typically complete four years of dental school and can then begin practicing general dentistry.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons continue their education with four to six additional years of specialized surgical training in a hospital-based residency program. This training is intensive and includes anesthesia, complex tooth extraction, bone grafting, jaw alignment surgery, trauma care, and more.

In short, an oral surgeon is not just a dentist—they’re a surgical specialist with extensive hospital and hands-on experience in treating more complicated oral health conditions.

What Does an Oral Surgeon Do?

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon focuses on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Common procedures include:

Wisdom teeth removal
Dental implant placement
Tooth extractions (especially complicated cases)
Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery
Bone grafting and sinus lifts
Treatment for TMJ disorders
Facial trauma repair
Oral pathology and biopsy of suspicious lesions
Sedation and general anesthesia during procedures

These procedures go beyond what a general dentist typically performs in a dental office.

When Do You Need to See an Oral Surgeon?

Your dentist plays a vital role in maintaining your oral health. But sometimes, they’ll refer you to an oral surgeon when the treatment needed is outside their scope of practice.

Here are a few examples of when you might be referred:

Impacted Wisdom Teeth: If your wisdom teeth are growing at odd angles or are stuck beneath the gums, an oral surgeon can safely remove them using advanced surgical techniques and sedation.
Dental Implants: These require precise placement into the jawbone, something an oral surgeon is uniquely trained to do.
Jaw Issues: If you have a misaligned jaw or a problem that affects chewing, speaking, or facial appearance, corrective jaw surgery may be needed.
Infection or Facial Trauma: Oral surgeons can address infections that spread into the bone, as well as treat injuries from accidents or sports.
Oral Cancer or Suspicious Lesions: Oral surgeons are trained to identify and biopsy abnormal tissues and help with diagnosis and treatment planning.

What Makes Oral Surgeons at OSIC Special?

At The Oral Surgery Institute of the Carolinas, our team of board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons combines years of specialized training with a commitment to patient comfort and care. We use advanced technology like 3D imaging, digital diagnostics, and sedation options to make your surgical experience as safe, precise, and stress-free as possible.

We serve patients at two convenient locations in Greensboro and Asheboro, offering expert surgical services with compassion and clarity every step of the way.

Working Together: Dentists and Oral Surgeons

It’s important to know that dentists and oral surgeons often work hand-in-hand. A general dentist monitors your day-to-day oral health and refers you to specialists when needed. An oral surgeon steps in to handle surgical procedures and works closely with your dentist to ensure you receive seamless, coordinated care.

Think of it like a team: your dentist is your primary oral health coach, and your oral surgeon is the specialist who steps in when surgery becomes necessary.

Contact The Oral Surgery Institute of the Carolinas

The main difference between a dentist and an oral surgeon comes down to training and expertise in surgical care. While your dentist helps keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright, an oral surgeon is there when treatment needs go beyond the basics.

If you’ve been referred to The Oral Surgery Institute of the Carolinas, you’re in excellent hands. Our team brings a deep level of expertise, cutting-edge tools, and a patient-first approach to everything we do.

Ready to learn more or book a consultation?

📍 Greensboro Office: 336-275-6600
📍 Asheboro Office: 336-318-1014
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