WHAT DIFFERENT TYPES OF SURGERY DO YOU OFFER?

The Center for Oral and Facial Surgery specializes in dentofacial surgery, including dental implants surgery, laser surgery, oral surgery, extractions and TMJ treatment.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GENERAL DENTIST AND AN ORAL SURGEON?

A general dentist does general dentistry, which can include dental cleanings, cavity restoration, crowns, denture and partial fabrication, cosmetic veneering and simple extractions. An oral surgeon performs surgical procedures of the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws or face. In addition to graduating from an accredited dental school and becoming licensed oral and maxillofacial surgeons have completed an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program. They have training in other disciplines such as general surgery, plastic surgery, medicine, anesthesia and pathology. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to treat patients in the hospital, outpatient facilities, surgery centers and in private offices.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING MY CONSULTATION? WHY IS IT NECESSARY?

The doctor will review your medical history and explain the treatment needed as well as any risks involved. You will also have an opportunity to discuss finances and insurance during this appointment. The consultation provides an opportunity to ask questions and obtain information. Any coordinating visits with other dentists or specialists can be arranged ahead of time. Not only does the consultation visit help relax anxieties by answering your questions and concerns, but is also assists the office in knowing the amount of time your particular case will need to be scheduled.

WHAT DAYS DO YOU DO CONSULTATIONS, AND WHAT DAYS DO YOU DO SURGERIES?

We try to see all our surgeries in the mornings and consultations in the afternoons.

I’VE ALREADY SEEN MY DENTIST, SO WHY DO I NEED TO HAVE A CONSULTATION AGAIN?

We see patients for a consultation to find out many things that will help us make your experience here at the Center for Oral and Facial Surgery a good one. The consultation will allow us to review your health history and confirm what medications are being taken or need to be taken prior to surgery. The doctor likes to meet the patient and discuss the best course of treatment. If a recent x-ray is not available, we are also able to take one while you are here. The doctor can then answer any questions you may have concerning your condition or surgery. Finally, your insurance or other financial questions can be answered at the consultation.

DO I HAVE TO BE REFERRED TO YOUR OFFICE?

No. If you do not have an established dentist, we will be happy to see and treat you without a referral.

HOW MUCH DO SURGERIES COST?

Although there are set fees for all procedures, there are also many variables which could affect the fee. For example, although there’s a set fee for implants, facility fee and anesthesiology, there could also be a fee for bone grafting if you need it. At the time of the initial consult, you will see the doctor with whom you have scheduled, but you will also be able to talk with a financial coordinator who will give you a written treatment plan and help you coordinate insurance benefits. In most instances, you will know exactly what the fee will be, which will assist you in planning and decision making.

WILL YOU FILE MY INSURANCE?

We will gladly file your insurance for you. We are not, however, providers for some insurance companies. Please contact us at (423) 954-9180 with your insurance questions.

WILL MEDICARE COVER MY EXTRACTIONS?

No. Medicare will not cover extractions or general anesthesia.

MAY I BRING MY OWN X-RAYS TO THE CONSULTATION?

Yes. You may bring your x-rays to the office. However, we may need to take another x-ray if the doctor deems it necessary.

HOW LONG CAN I EXPECT TO BE AT YOUR OFFICE THE DAY OF SURGERY?

The length of time spent at the office for surgery appointments greatly depends on the type of surgery you are having. Your doctor will discuss this in more detail during your initial consultation.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR SURGERY?

Make sure you wear comfortable clothing and preferably a button up, short sleeve shirt if you are having general anesthesia.

MAY MY CHILD COME TO HIS/HER CONSULTATION ALONE?

If your child is less than 18 years old, he or she will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian as there will be consent forms and other documentation which will require your signature during the initial consultation.