Patients go to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for treatment when they require anesthesia or sedation for oral surgery, a diagnosis for an oral health condition, or surgery to the head, neck, mouth, or face. A general dentist goes into practice immediately after dental school, while an oral surgeon must complete many additional years of training. During this time, oral surgeons gain hands-on experience performing a variety of oral surgery procedures and administer anesthesia. Because of this training, oral surgeons are the only dental professionals qualified to administer local anesthesia, general anesthesia, laughing gas, and IV anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience for patients.