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If you have ever had cause to require the help of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, you’ll know just how unique their help can be.
It happened to me, two decades ago. My oral and maxillofacial surgeon not only removed my four wisdom teeth but was there to care for me when I subsequently became unwell.
That continuity of care was, to me at the time, so important.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons hold dental and medical qualifications, and undergo advanced training in assessing and treating complex cases in surgical dentistry and facial surgery.
This includes removing wisdom teeth and treatment of complex craniofacial trauma but also extends to development impairment requiring corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) and secondary cleft surgery.
According to the Australian and New Zealand Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, specialists’ range of practice includes dental implants, impacted teeth, benign and malignant oral facial pathology, salivary gland disease, temporomandibular (jaw) joint disorders and facial injuries.
They also regularly work with other specialists including ear nose and throat surgeons.
This advertising feature is supported by: Riverina Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr Narada Hapangama began visiting Wagga as a specialist in 2009 and settled in the city in 2012, opening Riverina Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr Hapangama, who completed his advanced training in Newcastle, Sydney and Canberra (and dental qualifications in Scotland), said that continuity of care for patients was a priority.
He said for complex cases he was able to provide surgical care in larger centres as part of a larger team of specialists when needed, as well as then provide continuing care. This continuity of care was part of the holistic picture of care and skillset that the speciality offered.
He said, for example, a patient may need surgical dental treatment but may be unwell and that was where the unique combination of this speciality came to the fore.
Dr Hapangama said he and his family had settled in Wagga because they liked the balance of work and lifestyle.