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What is a Board-Certified Oral Surgeon?
Port Angeles, WA An oral surgeon is a dental specialist trained to perform surgical procedures involving the teeth, jaw, and soft tissues of the mouth and face. These procedures can range from tooth extractions and dental implant placement to more complex treatments involving facial trauma or corrective jaw surgery. When surgery is needed, many patients are unsure where to turn, especially if the situation is urgent and time for research is limited.One way to feel more confident in your choice is to understand the difference between a licensed oral surgeon and one who is board certified. Board certification reflects an additional level of training, evaluation, and commitment to patient care. At Turella Oral Surgery + Implants, our doctor, Stephen Turella, DMD, is a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, here to serve you with his expertise, knowledge, and care. Licensed vs. Board CertifiedAll oral surgeons must be licensed to practice. Licensing is a requirement that ensures a provider has completed the necessary education and training to perform procedures safely and legally. While this is an important baseline, it does not necessarily reflect advanced expertise beyond the minimum qualifications. Board certification, on the other hand, is a voluntary achievement that goes beyond basic licensing. It indicates that an oral surgeon has pursued additional evaluation and demonstrated a high level of knowledge and clinical skill within their specialty. This distinction can provide patients with greater reassurance when preparing for a surgical procedure. Why Board Certification MattersChoosing a board-certified oral surgeon can make a meaningful difference in your care. These specialists, including Stephen J. Turella, DMD, have undergone extensive review by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS), the organization responsible for setting and maintaining standards in the field. Board certification signals that a surgeon has met rigorous criteria and is committed to maintaining excellence in their practice. This often includes staying informed about new techniques, advances in technology, and evolving standards of care. For patients, this translates into a higher level of confidence when undergoing treatment. What Does the Certification Process Involve?Becoming board certified is a multi-step process that requires significant dedication. Oral surgeons must first complete their dental degree and an intensive residency program focused on oral and maxillofacial surgery. After meeting these foundational requirements, they may choose to pursue board certification. The certification process includes:
Each component is designed to evaluate both knowledge and practical ability. Candidates must successfully complete all parts of the process. If they do not meet the required standards in any area, they are not granted certification. The Oral Examination ComponentOne of the most demanding parts of the certification process is the oral examination. This portion is structured to assess how a surgeon applies their knowledge in clinical scenarios. It typically consists of multiple timed segments, each focusing on different aspects of patient care, diagnosis, and surgical planning. Rather than testing memorization alone, the oral exam evaluates critical thinking and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure. This ensures that board-certified oral surgeons are well prepared to handle complex cases and unexpected situations in a clinical setting. Subspecialties and Advanced ExpertiseSome oral surgeons pursue additional areas of focus within their field. These subspecialties demonstrate a deeper level of expertise in specific types of procedures or patient care approaches. Examples of areas that may be included are:
These are just a few examples, and the field continues to evolve as new methods and technologies emerge. Choosing a board-certified oral surgeon with relevant experience can be especially beneficial for patients with unique or complex needs. Maintaining Board CertificationBoard certification is not a one-time achievement. Oral surgeons must maintain their certification through ongoing evaluation and continued education. Every 10 years, they are required to undergo a recertification process to demonstrate that their knowledge and skills remain current. In addition to formal recertification, board-certified oral surgeons regularly participate in:
This ongoing commitment ensures that they stay informed about advancements in the field and continue to provide care that reflects current best practices. The Benefits for PatientsFor patients, the advantages of choosing a board-certified oral surgeon are clear. Certification reflects a higher standard of training, evaluation, and accountability. It also demonstrates a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. When undergoing any type of oral surgery, patients want to feel confident in the skill and judgment of their provider. Board certification offers an added layer of assurance that the surgeon has been thoroughly evaluated and continues to meet established standards of excellence. How Turella Oral Surgery + Implants Can HelpFinding the right oral surgeon can feel overwhelming, especially when facing a time-sensitive or complex situation. At Turella Oral Surgery + Implants, our doctor, Stephen J. Turella, DMD, is a board certified oral surgeon. He and our team ensure you receive the level of care you deserve. If your treatment requires a specific area of expertise, we can help connect you with a specialist who has the appropriate training and experience. Our goal is to make the process as clear and comfortable as possible so you can move forward with confidence. Schedule Your Consultation TodayIf you have been told you may need oral surgery or have questions about your options, our team is here to help. Contact Turella Oral Surgery + Implants at (360) 912-8244 to schedule your consultation. |
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