Käkkirurgi

Käkkirurgi, or oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a medical-dental specialty focused on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the jaws, mouth, face, and surrounding structures. Käkkirurgid work to restore function and aesthetics, often in cooperation with dental professionals such as dentists, orthodontists, and prosthodontists, as well as other medical specialists.

Education and training: Eligibility requires completion of a dental degree (or medical degree in some systems) followed by residency or specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Training lasts several years and includes clinical rotations, operative experience, and exams. Certification or licensure varies by country.

Common procedures: impacted wisdom tooth removal, dental implants placement, orthognathic (jaw) surgery to correct malocclusion, reconstruction after trauma or cancer, cyst and tumor management, preprosthetic surgery, temporomandibular joint disorder treatment, and cleft lip/palate-related jaw repair. They also perform biopsy, CT imaging planning, and anesthesia administration (often IV sedation or general anesthesia).

Settings and collaboration: Operate in hospitals, clinics, or academic centers; work as part of multidisciplinary teams that include orthodontists, dentists, ENT surgeons, plastic surgeons, and oncologists. Use imaging technologies such as panoramic radiography, CT or cone-beam CT, and computer-assisted planning.

In summary: Käkkirurgi bridges dentistry and medicine, focusing on the health, function, and appearance of the jaw and face through surgical and adjunctive care. See also: Oral and maxillofacial surgery.