A Study of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Recovery

Abstract

My experiential work that I conducted for my Senior Individualized Project consisted of assisting chairside in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. This work took place during the summer of 2022, before entering the fall trimester. During this work experience I was trained in forehanded techniques used between surgeons and their assistants. Also, I was trained in the sterilization lab to run an ultrasonic and an autoclave, which gave me a better understanding of the5hroughputt required to run a practice such as Dr. Bonine’s office. The biggest takeaway I gained from this experience was through my work with platelet rich fibrin (PRF). In most of the cases I assisted on, some form of a PRF was used. Since I was a trainee all summer, I typically assisted on easier cases like wisdom teeth removal. Since I am most familiar with this technique, I chose to review articles specifically related to PRF utilization in wisdom teeth extractions. Through my work experience as well as the literature I reviewed, I was able to learn about leading post-operative healing techniques like platelet rich fibrin and its clinical applications. Through this experience I have gained a ton of valuable information that will help in my journey through dental school, and wherever my path takes me afterwards.