Oral vs. Maxillofacial Surgeons

A member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Dr. Christopher C. “Chris” Babcock graduated from the University of Louisville with an MD and a DMD. Since 2018, Dr. Christopher C. Babcock has practiced at Louisville Oral Surgery and Dental Implants in Kentucky, where he provides dental extractions, implants, and oral pathology treatment as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All maxillofacial surgeons are oral surgeons, but the reverse is not the case. Generally, maxillofacial surgeons are also called “oral and maxillofacial surgeons” because they acquire the necessary skills and knowledge that include but go beyond that of oral surgeons. Maxillofacial surgeons are not confined to procedures that involve the oral cavity, but can work in more areas of the face to treat conditions like abnormal nasal cavity, traumatic or congenital facial disfigurement, and tumors in the head, neck, or mouth. Maxillofacial surgeons also perform gum surgery, dental implants, and tooth extractions, among other procedures.

General dentists are confined to practices within the mouth. Denture fittings, root canals, dental crowns, and tooth extractions fall within this category.
Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons can also treat oral infections and problems with the temporomandibular joint (the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull).