Innovations and Emerging Trends in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Over the last decade, oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) has shifted from artisan, freehand techniques to digitally planned, image-guided, biologically informed care. Cone-beam CT (CBCT) now anchors diagnostics; intraoral scanning (IOS) streamlines impressions; and virtual surgical planning (VSP) with CAD/CAM and additive manufacturing improves geometric fidelity while often reducing operative time. Patient-specific implants, dynamic navigation, arthroscopy, sialendoscopy, and piezoelectric osteotomy have lowered morbidity. Regenerative options—including calcium-phosphate ceramics, bioactive glass, autogenous dentin derivatives, platelet concentrates, and selective rhBMP-2—have reduced donor-site burden. Patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) increasingly define success. This review synthesizes evidence and implementation guidance for Indian public institutions, emphasizing standardization, validation (including AI), point-of-care manufacturing, and equitable access