Since early 1900s Oral Surgeons have been pioneers in trauma and reconstructive surgery. With a long and illustrious history, from the American Civil war to Modern Day Afghanistan, Oral Surgeons have been at the forefront of facial trauma.

With their duel background in dentistry and medicine, as well as their residency training, Oral Surgeons are uniquely qualified to treat a wide variety of problems. From impacted teeth extraction, through to reconstructive surgery. They are also qualified to administer outpatient general anesthesia, making them unique from any other dentists.

Dr Lance West is an experienced and highly regarded oral surgeon, based in Remuera, Auckland. After graduating BDS at the University of Otago in 1976, Lance trained in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Royal London Hospital and the Royal Dental Hospital in London. Lance has been practising Oral and Maxillofacial surgery in Auckland since 1987. He is highly experienced in treating facial injuries such as jaw fractures and damage to other facial bones, and as a part-time Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with the Auckland District Health Board, Lance specialises in the correction of skeletal facial deformities and trauma.

This Youtube video from AAOMS – the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, gives an outstanding insight into Oral Surgeons and Maxillofacial surgery. Please take note, that the video does contain scenes of procedures and may be a little graphic for some people.