Understanding the difference between dental surgery and oral surgery can help you make informed decisions about your care. At Dr. Jenna D. Godwin Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Seminole, FL, our goal is to guide patients with clarity, compassion, and a commitment to surgical excellence. Dr. Godwin is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon whose advanced residency training and military surgical background allow her to treat complex conditions that extend beyond the scope of general dentistry. Knowing when to see a dentist and when to seek an oral surgeon ensures you receive the right care at the right time.
This Article will address
- The real difference between dental surgery and oral surgery
- What qualifies as oral surgery
- When a dental problem becomes a surgical problem
- Types of surgeries performed by oral surgeons but not general dentists
- Common procedures in both dental and oral surgery
- Reasons you may need oral surgery over dental treatment
- Frequently asked questions about oral surgery in Seminole FL
What Is the Difference Between Dental Surgery and Oral Surgery?
Dental surgery refers to procedures a general dentist performs to restore or treat the teeth and gums. These can include fillings, simple extractions, crowns, root canals, and gum treatments. Dentists complete four years of dental school and are trained to provide essential oral health care for a wide range of conditions.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialty that requires four to six additional years of hospital-based surgical residency after dental school. Oral surgeons diagnose and treat conditions involving the teeth, jaws, facial bones, and oral soft tissues. These procedures are often more complex and may involve sedation or general anesthesia. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Godwin brings advanced surgical expertise and extensive medical training to patients in the Seminole community.
Understanding these differences helps patients recognize when a condition requires specialized care that goes beyond what a general dentist provides.
What Qualifies as Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery includes procedures that require advanced surgical training, specialized equipment, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. These treatments involve structures beyond the surface level of the teeth and gums and often require sedation for patient comfort.
Common procedures performed at Dr. Jenna D. Godwin Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery include:
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Dental implant placement
- Bone grafting and ridge preservation
- Oral biopsies and pathology services
- Exposure and bonding for orthodontic treatment
- Facial trauma repair
- Pre-prosthetic surgery
- Jaw-related surgical treatments
- IV sedation and general anesthesia
Each of these procedures requires the precision and judgment of a specialist. Dr. Godwin’s surgical residency and military experience ensure patients receive the highest standard of care in a supportive and calming environment.
When Does a Dental Problem Become a Surgical Problem?
A dental issue becomes a surgical problem when the condition involves the jawbone, facial structures, impacted teeth, or infections that extend beyond what a general dentist can safely treat. Dentists routinely refer patients to oral surgeons when:
- Wisdom teeth are impacted or poorly positioned
- A tooth infection requires surgical extraction
- Tooth loss needs implant placement rather than a bridge
- Bone loss must be corrected with grafting or sinus lift
- Facial trauma from an accident injures bone or tissue
- Suspicious lesions require biopsy
Most dental concerns start small, but structural complications can turn a simple problem into one that requires surgical intervention. At our Seminole office, Dr. Godwin takes a patient-centered approach to diagnosing these concerns, ensuring patients understand their condition and treatment options before moving forward.
What Type of Surgeries Can an Oral Surgeon Do That a Dentist Can’t?
Oral surgeons have advanced training and hospital-based experience that allow them to perform procedures beyond the scope of general dentistry. These include:
- Complex or impacted tooth extractions
- Surgical treatment of facial injuries
- Bone grafting and ridge augmentation
- Sinus lift procedures
- Surgical dental implant placement
- Corrective jaw surgery
- Treatment of oral pathology, including cysts and tumors
- Management of facial pain and TMJ-related disorders
Oral surgeons also complete extensive anesthesia training, allowing them to administer IV sedation and general anesthesia safely. Dr. Godwin’s military background adds an exceptional layer of discipline and precision to her surgical care, making her uniquely qualified to treat both routine and advanced conditions.
Types of Dental Surgery vs. Types of Oral Surgery
Common Dental Surgeries Performed by General Dentists
- Simple tooth extractions
- Root canal therapy
- Gum-related treatments
- Crown placement
- Bridge preparation
Common Oral Surgeries Performed by an Oral Surgeon
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Dental implant surgery
- Bone grafting
- Soft tissue biopsies
- Facial trauma repair
- Pre-prosthetic surgery
- Corrective jaw procedures
While general dentistry focuses on maintaining and restoring oral health, oral surgery addresses deeper, more complex issues that require surgical expertise.
Why Might You Need Oral Surgery Instead of Dental Treatment?
Some conditions cannot be resolved with routine dental care and require the specialized training of an oral surgeon. These include:
- Infections that extend beyond the tooth
- Severe decay that cannot be restored
- Facial or jaw injury
- Structural bone loss
- Suspicious lumps, bumps, or cysts
- Tooth loss requiring permanent replacement
- Developmental or congenital jaw issues
- Medical conditions requiring coordination with other medical specialists
Oral surgery ensures that complex conditions are treated safely and effectively while anticipating and preventing possible complications. At our Seminole practice, Dr. Godwin focuses on long-term health and function, providing solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Proudly Serving Patients in Seminole, FL, and Surrounding Communities
Our practice welcomes patients from Seminole and nearby areas, including Clearwater, Largo, Madeira Beach, Pinellas Park, Saint Petersburg, and other communities throughout Pinellas County. With the help of our patient care coordinators, Stephanie and McKensi, we make scheduling and treatment planning as smooth as possible.
Why Choose Dr. Jenna D. Godwin for Oral Surgery?
Military-Trained Expertise
Dr. Godwin’s experience as a U.S. Army oral and maxillofacial surgeon provides advanced surgical skills and a disciplined, precise approach to care.
Board-Certified Oral Surgeon
As a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Godwin offers the highest level of surgical expertise and ongoing commitment to excellence.
Compassionate, Calming Patient Experience
Our office is designed to reduce anxiety with natural light, soothing colors, and modern technology. Every patient receives personalized, attentive care.
Consistent 5-Star Patient Reviews
Patients frequently praise Dr. Godwin and her team for their professionalism, kindness, and clear communication.
Schedule Your Oral Surgery Consultation in Seminole, FL
If you have questions about oral surgery or believe you may need specialized care, Dr. Jenna D. Godwin is here to help. Our team is committed to providing exceptional surgical treatment in a safe, welcoming environment. Call us at (727) 397-8500 to schedule your consultation. We are located at 8277 113th Street, Seminole, FL 33772.
Your comfort, health, and confidence are our highest priorities.
Sources
Dr. Godwin
Dr. Jenna D. Godwin is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon serving patients in Seminole, Florida. She earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from the University of Florida and went on to serve in the U.S. Army, where she developed advanced surgical expertise and later trained resident surgeons. Her background combines the precision of military training with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, allowing her to provide personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. Dr. Godwin is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology, and she is an active member of several professional dental and surgical organizations. Outside of the office, she enjoys exercise, travel, and spending time with her son, Elliott. Dr. Godwin is committed to creating a calm, supportive environment where every patient feels valued, informed, and confident in their care.