Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field that involves the surgical treatment of structural, traumatic, or infectious conditions affecting the soft and hard tissues within the oral cavity. This discipline covers a wide range of procedures, including impacted tooth extractions, jawbone surgeries, cyst and tumor removal, and bone grafting preparations prior to dental implant placement. It also addresses functional disorders caused by jaw muscles, such as teeth grinding (bruxism) and related muscle pain.

When Is Surgical Intervention Necessary?

• Extraction of impacted wisdom teeth

• Removal of cysts or infected tissue around the tooth roots

• Jawbone augmentation prior to implant placement (e.g., sinus lifting, bone grafting)

• Treatment of dental or jaw fractures caused by trauma

• Relief of muscle pain due to jaw tension or bruxism

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) and Botox Treatment

Bruxism is a jaw function disorder in which individuals unconsciously grind or clench their teeth during the day or night. Over time, this condition can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, tension in the head and neck muscles, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. The first step in treatment is diagnosis, followed by reducing the excessive activity of the jaw muscles.

In more advanced cases, Botox injections into the jaw muscles can temporarily limit muscle activity, alleviating pain and preventing further damage to the teeth. The procedure is quick, typically lasts 4 to 6 months, and does not interfere with daily life.

How Is the Treatment Process Managed?

All surgical procedures are planned after thorough clinical and radiological evaluations. Treatments are performed under local anesthesia, with a focus on patient comfort. Botox therapy is administered based on an assessment of the patient’s jaw muscle structure and takes only a few minutes. When necessary, both surgical and Botox treatments may be combined.