American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons - AAOMS

11/26/2025

Are you at risk for head, neck or oral cancers? To***co and alcohol use, HPV exposure and poor oral hygiene or nutrition can all increase your chances. Early detection saves lives – so don’t wait to speak with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) about your concerns. Learn more at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Oral-Head-and-Neck-Pathology/06_Head_Neck_Oral_Cancer_Facts.

11/24/2025

Early cancer detection can save lives. Take a few minutes each month to check for signs of oral cancer. All you need is a mirror and a bright light. Here’s how:
1. Remove any dentures.
2. Look and feel inside your lips and the front of your gums.
3. Tilt your head back to inspect and feel the roof of your mouth.
4. Pull your cheek out to check the inside and back gums.
5. Stick out your tongue and examine the top and underside.
6. Gently feel both sides of your neck and under your jaw for lumps or swollen glands.

Learn more at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Oral-Head-and-Neck-Pathology/Oral_Cancer_Self_Exam.

11/21/2025

Did you know one of the most important nerves in your face is the trigeminal nerve? It helps you feel sensations in your face and mouth – so when the nerve is irritated, it can greatly affect your daily life. If you’re experiencing facial pain, it could be related. Learn more about symptoms and causes at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/TMJ-and-Facial-Pain/05_Trigeminal-Nerve/.

11/17/2025

TMJ disorders often can be managed with non-surgical treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, bite splints and stress management. But if symptoms persist or joint damage is present, surgery may be recommended. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) can help you explore the best options for relief. Visit MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/TMJ-and-Facial-Pain/How-an-OMS-Can-Help-with-TMJ-Disorders to learn more.

11/13/2025

Did you know the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the most frequently used joint in the body? TMJ disorders can cause headaches, jaw pain and difficulty eating – often affecting adults between ages 20 and 40. If symptoms appear, consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) for expert diagnosis and care. Learn more at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/TMJ-and-Facial-Pain.

11/10/2025

Has your teen been told it’s time to have their wisdom teeth removed? Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and help you prepare. Check out this helpful infographic that breaks down the process step by step:
MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Wisdom-Teeth-Management/Before-Wisdom-Teeth-Surgery/Wisdom_Teeth_Surgery_Infographic/

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are experts in face, mouth and jaw surgeries. Learn more about treatment for wisdom teeth, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery and more.

11/06/2025

Thanksgiving break is a smart time for wisdom tooth removal. Extra days off can make recovery easier. Schedule a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon near you, and review recovery tips so you and your child are prepared: MyOMS.org/What-We-do/Wisdom-Teeth-Management/Wisdom-Teeth-Healing

10/27/2025

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) are uniquely trained to perform facial cosmetic surgery. Their expertise in skin, muscle, bone and cartilage ensures both esthetic and functional results. From enhancing appearance to restoring balance, OMSs provide safe, comprehensive care. Discover more at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Facial-Cosmetic-Surgery.

10/24/2025

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) are highly qualified to perform injectable cosmetic treatments. In the OMS Voices podcast, Dr. Elie Ferneini discusses the expertise OMSs bring to facial procedures that helps ensure safe, effective and natural-looking results. Listen at MyOMS.org/Podcast.

Root exposure, gum recession and gum line esthetics can all be treated with connective- (or soft-) tissue grafts performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

10/21/2025

Healthy teeth and dental implants rely on strong gums and bone for support. Gum tissue forms a protective barrier that guards against bacteria and everyday wear from chewing and brushing. Without adequate support, problems such as sensitivity, gum recession or even tooth loss may occur. Learn more about protecting your oral health at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Oral-Soft-Tissue-Surgery/Soft-Tissue-Grafts.

Root exposure, gum recession and gum line esthetics can all be treated with connective- (or soft-) tissue grafts performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

10/16/2025

A frenum is a small band of tissue in the mouth that can sometimes limit movement or cause dental issues. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) may perform a frenectomy – a simple procedure to release this tissue. This can improve tongue movement, help close gaps between teeth and protect gum health. Learn more about this treatment at MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Oral-Soft-Tissue-Surgery/What-is-a-Frenectomy.

10/06/2025

Dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) both care for oral health – but their training differs greatly. OMSs complete years of surgical residency after dental school, preparing them to manage complex cases such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, jaw surgery and more. When specialized surgical care is needed, trust an OMS. Learn more at MyOMS.org/Why-Choose-an-OMS/Oral-Surgery-vs-Oral-Surgeon/.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) practice oral surgery, but not everyone who performs oral surgery is an OMS. Learn the difference.