Services

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Services in Santa Barbara, CA

Advanced Care by Dr. Shelby Bowman

When you’re facing oral pain, functional challenges, or need surgical solutions for your teeth, jaw, or face, it can feel overwhelming. We’re here to help you understand your options and feel confident about your care.

Led by Dr. Shelby Bowman, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, we provide a full spectrum of surgical treatments, from dental implants to complex jaw procedures, all available right here in Santa Barbara, CA.

What services do oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery goes beyond teeth—it’s about restoring comfort, function, and confidence. At our clinic, we treat everything from wisdom teeth and dental implants to jaw problems, facial trauma, and oral pathology, with care tailored to each patient.

Dental Implants

Replace missing teeth with a solution that feels natural
Dental implants are small posts that act like tooth roots, holding secure replacement teeth (crowns) that look and feel real.

Why patients choose us for dental implants:

Tooth position-guided implants
Precise 3D planning for accuracy
Sedation available for comfort
Long-lasting, natural feel

Dental Implant FAQ’s

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last decades and often a lifetime.

Is getting a dental implant painful?

No. We use local anesthesia and sedation to make the process comfortable, and most patients report only mild soreness afterward.

TMJ Care

Relief for jaw pain, limited mouth opening, or locking
If you have jaw joint pain and limitations, surgeries may help with your pain and mouth opening.

Why patients choose us for TMJ Care:

Personalized diagnosis with imaging
Gentle, minimally invasive techniques when possible
Comprehensive treatment planning

TMJ FAQ’s

When is TMJ surgery recommended?

Surgery is considered only after conservative treatments, like splints or therapy, haven’t worked.

Can TMJ surgery cure jaw pain completely?

Many patients experience significant relief, though results depend on the specific condition and type of surgery.

Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal

Gentle removal for comfort and peace of mind
Whether it’s a single tooth or impacted wisdom teeth, extractions are performed with precision and care to ease pain and protect long-term oral health.

Why patients choose us for extractions:

Sedation options to keep you comfortable
Advanced imaging for safe planning
Focus on gentle techniques and smooth recovery

Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQ’s

Will I be awake during wisdom teeth removal?

Most patients choose intravenous (IV) sedation, so you’re comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.

How long is recovery after a tooth extraction?

Most people return to normal activities in 2–3 days, though complete healing takes about 1–2 weeks.

Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

Jaw realignment for a healthier bite and easier breathing
If your jaws don’t line up, jaw surgery can restore balance and function.

Why patients choose us for jaw surgery:

Extensive experience in jaw surgery
Technology that maps your airway
Focus on safety and bite improvement

Corrective Jaw Surgery FAQ’s

Why would someone need jaw surgery?

It’s often recommended for severe bite problems, misaligned jaws, or airway issues that braces alone can’t fix.

How long does recovery take?

Most people feel better after just 2 weeks, though full recovery and finishing braces takes months.

Bone Grafting & Sinus Lifts

Strengthening your jaw so dental implants can succeed
If you’ve lost bone, we can rebuild it to support dental implants.

Why patients choose us for bone grafting:

Advanced grafting techniques
Predictable results with digital planning
Sets the stage for lasting implant success

Bone Grafting & Sinus Lift FAQ’s

Why would I need a bone graft before dental implants?

Bone grafting restores lost bone, creating a solid foundation so implants stay secure long-term.

How long does it take to heal after a sinus lift?

Healing generally takes 4–6 months, depending on the amount of grafting needed before implants can be placed.

Facial Trauma Surgery

Expert care after an injury to the face or jaw
From sports injuries to accidents, we restore function and appearance.

Why patients choose us for trauma surgery:

Support for immediate and ongoing care
Focus on long-term healing
Trusted partner for local hospitals

Facial Trauma Surgery FAQ’s

What injuries require oral and facial trauma surgery?

Injuries may include broken jaws, fractured cheekbones, or cuts that affect function or appearance.

Will surgery restore my appearance after facial trauma?

Our goal is to restore both function and appearance. While scars may remain, we aim to help you get as close as possible to your pre-injury self.

Oral Pathology & Biopsies

Checking unusual spots or sores in the mouth
Early detection matters. We evaluate and biopsy changes so you get clarity fast.

Why patients choose us for pathology care:

State-of-the-art biopsy with clear results
Peace of mind through early answers
Connection to further care if needed

Oral Pathology & Biopsy FAQ’s

When should I see a surgeon for an oral lesion?

If you notice a sore, lump, or spot in your mouth that doesn’t heal after 4 weeks, it’s time to get checked.

Is an oral biopsy painful?

The area is numbed before the biopsy, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness afterwards is normal.

Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Preparing your mouth for dentures or dental implants
Bone and/or gum adjustments ensure your dentures or implants fit securely and comfortably.

Why patients choose us for pre-prosthetic care:

Smoother fit for dentures
Better results with implants
Comfortable, natural feel

Pre-Prosthetic Surgery FAQ’s

Why would I need surgery before dentures or dental implants?

Minor adjustments to bone or gum tissue can make dentures fit better and implants succeed long-term.

Is pre-prosthetic surgery a major procedure?

No, these are usually simple outpatient procedures with quick recovery times.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Surgical options when CPAP isn’t working
For patients who struggle with CPAP, surgery may improve nighttime breathing.

Why patients choose us for sleep apnea surgery:

Airway-focused planning
Alternatives tailored to your health
Better sleep and more energy

Sleep Apnea FAQ’s

When is surgery considered for sleep apnea?

Surgery is recommended only when sleep apnea does not respond to less invasive methods, like CPAP or an oral appliance.

What types of sleep apnea surgery are available?

Options may include soft tissue surgery or jaw repositioning to open the airway and improve breathing.

Dedicated to Providing You Exceptional Surgical Care

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Why Patients Choose Dr. Bowman for Oral Surgery

Your experience matters as much as your outcome. Patients trust Dr. Shelby Bowman for her compassionate care, surgical precision, and long-term results.

Board-certified surgeon (DDS, MD)
Comfort and safety are prioritized
Advanced imaging and surgical planning
Clear communication and transparency
Inclusive access with all insurance types

What to Expect

Consultation — review your goals, history, and imaging
Personalized plan — options, risks, and recovery timeline
Comfort-focused surgery — sedation and safety protocols
Follow-up and healing — direct access to our team