Level 2 Minor Oral Surgery with and without Sedation

Minor oral surgery involves the assessment, diagnosis, and management of conditions affecting the mouth and jaws that require surgical intervention. In primary care, dental practitioners typically perform simple extractions, while most oral surgery occurs within general dental practices. However, some cases are too complex for general practice yet not sufficiently complex for hospital treatment. These cases are managed through Level 2 Minor Oral Surgery (MOS) services within primary care.

MOS services cater to patients aged 12 and over, usually following referral from their primary care dentist. Level 2 MOS procedures are less complex than those requiring general anaesthesia but often involve sedation to ensure patient comfort and safety. Conscious sedation is commonly used, allowing patients to remain awake and responsive to verbal commands while feeling relaxed and drowsy.

By bridging the gap between general dental practice and hospital-based oral surgery, MOS services play a vital role in improving access to care and reducing pressure on secondary services.