Precision and Compassion: Unveiling Orange County’s Oral Surgery Specialists

1. Introduction

Oral and maxillofacial surgery requires additional years of hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after graduation from dental school. As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, we manage a wide variety of problems relating to the mouth, teeth, and facial regions. We practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery to wisdom tooth removal. We can also diagnose and treat facial pain, facial injuries, and fractures. Our staff is trained in assisting with IV anesthesia within our state-of-the-art office setting. We find this very beneficial to our patients, ensuring your utmost safety and comfort level with the entire surgical experience. Let us take care of you!

Welcome to Orange County’s Oral Surgery Specialists, residents highly skilled OC medical space. As trusted professionals, we are here for you and look to treat your needs with personalized attention that you deserve. We provide a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery to wisdom tooth removal. We also diagnose and treat facial pain, facial injuries, and perform a full range of dental implant and bone grafting procedures.

1.1. Overview of Oral Surgery

A key aspect of being an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the ability to provide a service in conjunction with other dental and medical specialties when the treatment required is beyond the scope of that individual practitioner. This occurs through working in a private practice setting where access to other practitioners and hospital facilities are available. At Orange County’s Oral Surgery Specialists, we work with a network of dental and medical practitioners to ensure that the treatment received is of the highest level. This is coupled with both Dr. Mostofi-Kapadia and Dr. Kitamura holding clinical teaching positions at the University of Southern California postgraduate residency program. This allows for continuous growth and development in knowledge and ability in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery and ensures that the service provided to the patient is at all times current, evidence-based, and safe.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the specialty of dentistry which includes the diagnosis, surgical and related treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the head, mouth, teeth, gums, jaws, and neck. This specialty is best illustrated by looking at the list of procedures your Dr. Mostofi-Kapadia and Dr. Kitamura are able to provide, which is found later on this site. Only after a further 4-7 years of hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training do oral and maxillofacial surgeons possess the knowledge and ability to administer the full scope of anesthesia over a wide range of surgical procedures, from removal of pathology to extensive orthognathic reconstructive surgery.

We are the leading oral surgery specialists in Orange County, providing the very best care and treatment possible for our patients. This has been achieved through years of experience and a commitment to excellence which is second to none. Our team has the skill and expertise necessary to provide a range of services from routine dental surgical procedures to complex trauma treatment and jaw reconstruction. Each of these procedures is performed with the same level of importance placed on providing a comfortable and caring experience for the patient, coupled with the very best treatment possible.

1.2. Importance of Precision and Compassion

Compassion is just as important as precision as a characteristic of any Orange County oral surgery specialists. A surgeon with a caring and understanding attitude will always best serve the interests of their patients. This is especially true with oral and maxillofacial surgery, which is often necessitated by chronic pain or disease. For the patient, surgery may cause stress and anxiety that are often not voiced out loud. An understanding surgeon is better able to recognize these emotions and will seek to provide the patient with extra comfort and assurance. A compassionate surgeon will also take extra care to consider the implications of surgery on the patient’s face and quality of life as they weigh treatment options. This may mean foregoing a treatment that is more effective in the long term in favor of a treatment with similar results but less risk. These decisions are always made with the patient’s best interest in mind.

Cosmetic surgery, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, oral surgery, treatment of TMJ, tumors and cysts of the jaws and face are just a few of the many procedures that an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may perform. All of these procedures require a high level of precision to yield the best possible results. For example, in dental implants, the precise placement of the implant is key to its future success. Just a few millimeters in the wrong direction may cause the implant to fail.

In orthognathic or corrective jaw surgery, precision is absolutely critical since the surgeon will be cutting and repositioning the patient’s jaw. A mistake here can have a serious effect on a patient’s appearance and, in the worst-case scenarios, it can lead to permanent damage of facial structure and chronic pain. High precision in these operations is the reason why you should always seek an expert in the field to perform the surgery. Any surgeon off the street is not qualified to perform jaw surgery.

Orange County’s oral surgery specialists are highly trained, licensed professionals who are experts in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The highly complex and precise nature of the procedures that an oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs requires a high degree of specialized training and education.

2. Services Offered

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop and appear in your mouth. They come in between the ages of 17 and 25, a time of life that has been called the “Age of Wisdom.” Wisdom teeth that are healthy and properly positioned do not cause problems. Unfortunately, this does not describe most people’s wisdom teeth. It has been widely accepted that because third molars are the last teeth to develop, they often are poorly positioned. This malpositioning can cause damage to adjacent teeth and surrounding bone. It is because of their late arrival and commonly poor positioning that many patients need to have their wisdom teeth extracted.

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

2.1. Dental Implants

Implant dentistry is the most advanced therapy available to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing.

The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing. Time is allowed for the jaw to heal following the placement of dental implants. Many times, a temporary denture can be worn during the healing period. The healing process can take from six weeks to six months. Depending on the situation, there are different types of dental implants which can be used. At times, it is necessary to let the implant heal for several months before attaching the replacement teeth, while other implants can have the replacement teeth attached the same day that they are placed.

2.2. Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to develop and are the third molar on each side of the upper and lower jaw. They are also the final teeth to erupt and usually appear from age 17-25, a time of life traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and the attainment of wisdom. We believe that the reasoning for their title is due to the fact that they are the last teeth to erupt, and although there are many people that do not experience complications with their wisdom teeth, it is important to consider wisdom teeth extraction before problems occur.

As with any teeth in your mouth, it is important to keep regular appointments and to monitor the clinical and radiographic development of your wisdom teeth with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. If the extraction of wisdom teeth is delayed until the patient is older, the root structure is fully developed and therefore increases the risk of complications from the surgery as well as the possibility of a chronic disease. Wisdom teeth that only partially emerge or come in crooked can also lead to difficulties of cleaning around the tooth which can cause food and bacteria to get trapped and turn into plaque. If plaque isn’t removed it could lead to various oral problems, such as gum infection, cavities, cysts, and/or tumors.

Though cysts and tumors happen to be rare, they can cause damage to the surrounding teeth and bone. In our practice, we generally recommend the removal of wisdom teeth before any of these problems can occur. If and when it comes time to have your wisdom teeth extracted, our doctors can evaluate the position of the teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems, as well as identify if the pathology in the removal of the wisdom teeth is best at a young age. The difficulty involved with removing the wisdom teeth can vary from patient to patient and with the position and development of the teeth. A piece of the surrounding bone may need to be removed before the tooth can be extracted.

In order to minimize the amount of post-surgical pain and swelling, as well as prevent any future oral problems, many times we will recommend that you have your wisdom teeth extracted sooner than later. However, you should also consider the two to three days of resting and relaxing following the removal of your wisdom teeth where you will not be able to attend work or school. On the day of your surgery, it is best to have a light meal for breakfast and to avoid all food and liquids (with the exception of water) for at least 6 hours. You will also need an adult to drive you home. All of these recommendations may be case-specific, so please listen to the recommendation of your doctor.

2.3. Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery is not always corrective in nature; it is also possible to enhance the appearance of the jawline through jaw augmentation or reduction. This type of surgery can be used to supplement a weak or receding chin with a chin implant, or conversely, the reduction of a prominent, asymmetrical jaw to create a balanced and appealing look. These procedures do much more than simply improve aesthetics; they also help to restore and maintain the overall structure and functionality of the jaw.

Those with severe bite problems or who have suffered major injury to the jaw (TMJ), and those with malocclusion (bad bite) which can affect chewing, speaking, and sleeping, might benefit from orthognathic surgery. This procedure changes the alignment of the jaw and can move either the mandible or maxilla to a new position to permanently alleviate the malocclusion. This surgery can have a major impact on a person’s ability to chew, speak, and sleep, and without treatment, these conditions become far worse with age. In these instances, the jaw misalignments can simulate the symptoms of TMJ. Orthognathic surgery can be a real solution for such cases.

Reconstructive jaw surgery can be a valuable tool in repairing both minor and major irregularities of the jaw. A misaligned jaw can cause a person to bite down irregularly, which often leads to jaw pain and headaches. While a misaligned bite might seem like a minor issue, it can actually be quite detrimental to your oral health.

2.4. Bone Grafting

By maintaining the bone volume around the socket, the jaw is maintained in its original form. It also reduces the risk of jaw fractures or other injury. This procedure has numerous advantages and with the use of modern technology, the risks are minimal and the procedure can be a short and simple one.

Unfortunately, after a tooth is removed the surrounding bone is often not able to support an implant. In these situations, the patient will have a much more simple and short bone grafting procedure, which will ensure that there is adequate bone to support the implant. The bone graft is usually left to develop for 3-6 months to ensure that the bone is strong enough to support the implant. This extra procedure ensures that the implant is a long-term solution and reduces the risk of an implant failing.

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that replaces missing bone with a material called a bone graft. This material not only acts as a scaffold for new bone growth, it also can stimulate new bone formation. Bone grafting is a minimally invasive procedure but the development of new bone can take several months.

3. State-of-the-Art Technology

Advanced imaging techniques play a critical role in today’s healthcare. It gives the doctors another view of underlying conditions or abnormalities that a standard x-ray may not show. Our office utilizes iCat Cone Beam 3-D imaging for most cases. This allows the doctor to see an in-depth image of the patient’s jaws and related structures. It is quick, simple, and game-changing. In most cases, the scan can be taken and the image can be reviewed within a minute.

This type of imaging is not only ideal for extractions and simple wisdom teeth cases but also very beneficial for more complex cases involving bone grafts, dental implants, and orthognathic surgery. Computer-Aided Surgery Planning is a concept that is still growing and being perfected by companies in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery. This method is currently best utilized for Orthognathic Surgery (corrective jaw surgery) in our practice. The iCat imaging is used to take a 3-D image of the patient.

This image is then converted to a file that can be uploaded to a program where the doctor can do virtual surgery to correct the patient’s malocclusion or jaw abnormality. The program allows the doctor to make precise movements of the jaws. Once the virtual surgery has been completed, the final product is then taken to an engineer who constructs a custom-made surgical splint that will guide the patient’s jaws into the proper position. This method replaces the traditional method of doing the movements ‘seat of the pants’ and using a more universal, sometimes ill-fitting, arch bar and wiring the patient’s jaws shut for a period of time.

3.1. Advanced Imaging Techniques

Advanced medical imaging is a science that has grown tremendously over the last decade. These advances have brought about various ways to help reconstruct and visualize the jawbone anatomy. Traditionally, these reconstructions were made using 2D x-rays in which the possibility of achieving an accurate representation of the jaw was slim. In the past, the practitioner was required to estimate the position, angle, and depth of the teeth needing implant restoration.

Today, with the introduction of spiral (cone-beam) CT technology, these methods are replaced with a more predictable, accurate, and safer approach. This type of scanner utilizes software to generate a 3D image where there is minimal geometric distortion. The benefits of this approach can be seen when an oral surgeon is attempting to evaluate a patient for the placement of dental implants. With said 3D image, the surgeon can correctly visualize vital anatomy (nerves, sinuses) and predict where the implants can be placed for an ideal restoration, often times without the need for extensive surgery of the hard or soft tissues. A vast improvement in the visualization and manipulation of 3D objects (in this case jawbone anatomy) can be seen with recent advancements in Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML).

These programs allow the surgeon to view the jawbone in a 3D format that can be rotated and viewed from any angle, potentially making any procedures involved clearer. An example of this would be an extraction of impacted wisdom teeth. With said model, the surgeon can evaluate the proximity of the root of the wisdom tooth to the nerve canal in which damage could cause paresthesia of the lip and chin. This level of risk assessment cannot be achieved using traditional 2D x-rays. Data from these CT scans can also be converted to a stereolithographic model where it can be used to create a replica of the patient’s mandible and/or maxilla. These models are a replica right down to the very shape and position of the actual bone. The creation of such models has an array of different uses, one of the most important being the ability to plan surgery before the patient ever steps into the operating room.

3.2. Computer-Aided Surgery Planning

Computer-aided surgery planning has revolutionized the way in which oral and maxillofacial surgeons use diagnostic imaging and perform procedures. These technologies allow three-dimensional modeling of the head and neck, which can be used to simulate various surgical procedures. Orthognathic surgery and the placement of dental implants can be rehearsed on the computer prior to ever entering the operating room. Not only does this make the surgery more predictable, it often times can minimize the extent of surgery that is actually required. This is particularly useful in the realm of orthognathic surgery where bony movements can be quite complex and difficult to visualize with traditional 2-D imaging.

We utilize a service called OMS3 from Materialise, which creates accurate virtual models from actual patient CT images. This system is FDA approved and fully integrated with our Dolphin Imaging software. OMS3 transfers the virtual model into a work environment where it can be used to perform virtual surgeries and make accurate measurements for the surgical procedure. This system is universal, which allows us to actually transfer the virtual plan to the operating room by ordering patient-specific models and instruments if necessary. Computer-aided surgery planning and virtual surgery are tools that have a bright future in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. These systems will become more advanced and easier to use, allowing surgeons to provide quality patient care in a more efficient and cost-effective manner.

3.3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

– Impacted wisdom teeth removal: While this is a very common procedure, it is not usually considered a minimally invasive procedure. However, due to our techniques, we are able to offer this in a minimally invasive manner. This means less pain and swelling, and shorter recovery time for the patient.

There are few oral surgical procedures that are able to be done in a minimally invasive fashion. However, the surgeons at OC Oral Surgery have been trained in the latest procedures and are able to offer our patients many of these advanced techniques. Some of the surgical procedures offered in a minimally invasive manner are:

Minimally invasive procedures have become one of the most sought-after methods in surgery. This is due to several advantages over traditional surgery. Minimally invasive procedures cause less surgical trauma to the patient, hence less pain. They also have less risk of infection due to shorter hospital stay. Cosmetic results are often better because less muscle is cut and there are smaller incisions resulting in less scar tissue. Finally, recovery is much faster, getting the patient back to full activities in much less time than the traditional route.

4. Highly Skilled Surgeons

Our surgeons are all board certified in oral and maxillofacial surgery and have undergone rigorous and comprehensive training before they are qualified to practice. Dr. Eric Herbranson has the honor of being selected by the American Dental Society as one of the few oral surgeons in the United States to participate in a six-year combined MD/DDS residency. He is one of the few surgeons in the country trained extensively in head and neck cancer surgery. Dr. Jason A. Straw has been highly trained in orthognathic facial deformity surgery, in which he has published and presented several articles at national meetings. He is one of the few surgeons in the United States who have received dual degrees in both dentistry and medicine.

All of our licensed surgeons in the practice have also undergone additional anesthesia training and are qualified to provide appropriate levels of anesthesia for your complete safety. Our highly trained surgical team and fully equipped surgery center are designed to create the optimal environment for a safe and comfortable experience for your surgery. In keeping with the AAPOMS standard, our surgeons regularly participate in continuing professional education to maintain their respective licenses and to remain current in the latest techniques and technology in oral surgery. We can assure you that your diagnosis and treatment plan will be based on the most recent evidence-based findings in the oral surgery specialty.

4.1. Expertise and Experience

Each of our surgeons at Orange County’s Oral Surgery Specialists has completed specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery to stand above all others. This involves completing dental school followed by a minimum of four years in a hospital-based surgical residency program. Only after completing this residency are the surgeons eligible to undergo a rigorous and demanding examination process through the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Adli, Dr. Yadegar, Dr. Kim, Dr. Hunt, Dr. Thomas, Dr. Schlofmitz, and Dr. Kurtz all possess this elite status among their peers in the dental and medical community. This sets them apart not only for the level of knowledge and clinical management they provide in the office setting, but also for their proficiency in hospital-based surgery and anesthesia.

This is crucial for those who need to be put under general anesthesia and have surgery performed in a hospital setting. All of these surgeons maintain a high level of knowledge and expertise by fulfilling specific requirements including attending national meetings, taking recertification exams, and continuing their education to meet the changing needs of their specialty throughout their careers. This is all to ensure the highest level of patient care, productivity, and a positive outcome. In layman’s terms, our surgeons have learned how to do it right, are doing it right, and will continue to do it right throughout their careers.

4.2. Continuous Professional Development

In addition to developing surgical expertise, our surgeons regularly update their training in anesthesia, patient safety, and life support skills. Office staff members are also encouraged to pursue ongoing education in their respective fields. This team effort to stay current in all areas ensures that patients will receive the safest and most pleasant office experience from start to finish.

Our specialists have continually augmented their surgical skills and knowledge throughout their careers. Beyond the minimum standards, each has pursued additional training in their area of interest, from dental implantology to maxillofacial trauma. This drive to excel is evidence of their commitment to providing the best possible care for every patient. Our patients can have confidence in the fact that they are being treated by a specialist who is a leader in their field.

4.3. Patient-Centered Approach

Patient-centred healthcare represents a quality of personalization, respect, recognition, involvement of patients and their family in the individual’s care, access to information, and collaboration. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) tells us patient-centred care is responsive to individual patient preferences, needs, and values and assures that patient values guide all clinical decisions. Patient-centred care also provides patients with the education and support they need to make decisions and participate in their own care. Healthcare organizations also need to be responsive to the need of their patients to provide cultural competence and language assistance.

Healthcare is also about developing relationships with patients. It is essential to develop a relationship with patients so they can form an alliance to work together toward improving their health. At Orange County Oral Surgery and Periodontics, we understand the diverse local community. We are able to communicate in Korean, Farsi, Spanish, and Chinese. We are also committed to ensuring communication is done correctly and effectively. This also means translating our skills to our patients to a level which they understand so they can be involved in their treatment planning. We provide written and visual information and access a network of other health professionals to ensure our patients get the best well-rounded care. We strive to provide the best customer service by having staff who genuinely care for our patients and put their interests at the forefront.

5. Patient Testimonials

Compassionate Treatment Dr. Rake and Staff, “I wanted to thank all of you for the incredible care I received. I was referred to Dr. Rake by my dentist for a difficult extraction of a molar from a previous failed root canal. I was very nervous due to experiences with past surgeries of this kind. Your staff was very patient and caring and took the time to understand my concerns. Dr. Rake’s expertise with the procedure was very evident, giving me minimal discomfort during the extraction and post-operative recovery. I have had little swelling and minimal pain and am quite surprised at how smooth this has gone. It is great to know that there is still an office that provides an exceptional level of care and an experienced doctor who takes pride in his work.” Thank you all so much. Sincerely, M.B.

Personalized Care Dr. Rake and Staff, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your excellent care. Your office shows a level of personal attention that is rare in the times we live in. After being referred to your office from my dentist, the referral was also seen by the personal contact from your office staff. You knew who I was when I entered the office and made me feel comfortable very quickly. I also cannot say enough for how you handled my insurance plan to the level of the personal handwritten card I received from Dr. Rake after my procedure. My procedure was very smooth, and the recovery has gone well with minimal discomfort. Any surgical needs I have in the future will definitely bring me back to Orange County oral surgery. Thank you again. CHPM

Success I am writing this letter to thank you and your staff for handling my procedure in a professional and caring manner. Due to the discomfort of the surgery, I was somewhat anxious. This anxiety was lessened due to the kindness and caring attitude of you and your staff. I have been to several dental and surgical offices, and I have never been treated as well as I was treated in your office. In addition, post-procedure recovery was as discussed, and the caring attitude was still present during the follow-up calls from your office. I would highly recommend your services to anyone needing the surgical care you provide. Sincerely, M.C.

5.1. Success Stories

Siblings had multiple teeth removed to remove overcrowding and relieve pain. The brother stated, “This surgery was important to me, and I was very scared to have it done.” The doctor did an amazing job. He showed a great deal of concern as to how I was feeling during and after the surgery. He also provided me a way to contact him after hours if there were any complications or concerns about the surgery. He also did an amazing job of explaining exactly what was going to happen; this made me feel comfortable and less nervous about the procedure. Overall, this was the best surgery I’ve had, and I was very pleased with the results.

I would recommend him to anyone who needs oral surgery. A professional man who was told about OC Oral Surgery by an endodontist. The gentleman stated that his dental experience was among the best he has ever had. “I was extremely satisfied with the doctor’s ability to diagnose exactly what the problem was with my tooth, even after it had been incorrectly diagnosed previously by another dental professional. I was also very impressed with his knowledge as to whether or not a root canal would be the best solution for my problem.

5.2. Personalized Care

In caring for hundreds of patients in Orange County, we recognize that it takes more than just good surgical skills and great to create an outstanding surgical experience. We believe that it is a combination of attentiveness to the patient’s issues, empathy, and the availability to follow through the patient’s needs, that ultimately make the patient comfortable and happy with the treatment process. We expect that any patient who has stepped into our office knows that we truly care about them. In their emanating smiles of relief and satisfaction, we have seen our efforts translate into great surgical experiences.

In delivering attentive care, we have taken extra steps to be available to our patients throughout the treatment process. Our office environment is equipped with the latest computer and networking technology, allowing us to be constantly in touch with our patients and their dentists before and after the surgery. This has allowed for improved convenience in setting up appointments and coordinating treatment. Beyond that, it has made us more accessible to address our patients’ questions and concerns at all times.

With implementation of electronic medical/dental records and soon, virtual consultations via web conferences, we will bring this accessibility to an even greater level. Patients may also utilize our website as a resource for further understanding their diagnoses and treatments. Finally, in freeing up time for consultations and adequate follow-up care, we limit the number of surgeries performed per day. This ensures that no one will feel rushed through their appointments and allows us to maintain the highest quality of surgery.

5.3. Compassionate Treatment

We care a great deal for our patients. In order to be efficient in the care we provide, we must understand your individual fears and concerns. Doing so allows us to better accommodate you in every aspect. Whether it’s taking extra precaution when giving injections, explaining a complicated procedure in a way you’ll understand, or taking an extra moment to console you when you’re feeling nervous, we’ll go the extra mile to make your oral surgery experience the most positive one possible.

Every patient is unique, and so is their oral surgery experience. At OC Oral Surgery, we understand how uneasy some patients may feel. That’s why we’re dedicated to developing a compassionate and comforting environment for our patients. From the moment you walk into our state-of-the-art facility, our friendly staff and expertly trained oral surgeons will ensure all your needs are met.

Our oral surgery team maintains offices in Orange and New Haven Counties. The Orange office is located in the Hitchcock Plaza at 320 Boston Post Road, Unit 6, Orange, CT 06517. This location is conveniently situated less than a mile off Exit 41 of the Merritt Parkway (Route 15). Whether you live or work in Central Connecticut, or are coming from greater New Haven, it is easy to reach us from the nearby towns of West Haven, East Haven, North Haven, Branford, Hamden, Woodbridge, Bethany, and Milford.

Our office is very close to the Orange campus of the Yale Medical School, the VA Connecticut Medical Healthcare System, and Yale’s West Campus, and less than 15 minutes drive from the main Yale-New Haven Hospital and Yale University. Free parking is available right outside the building. Our New Haven office neighbors Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) and is currently open for appointments and emergencies primarily on Mondays. Both offices are modern, inviting, and staffed with experienced, sympathetic professionals. We understand that many patients have demanding work or school schedules, or must arrange childcare.

Some wish to avoid taking time off or being less visible in high-profile careers. In order to serve you more effectively, and reduce the need to take significant time from other pursuits, our standard and extended hours vary by location. Our Orange office is open regularly on Tuesdays through Fridays, with appointments that begin as early as 8 AM, and as late as 4:30 PM. On occasion, we may provide anesthesia and surgery days that begin as early as 7:15. Finally, it may be possible to schedule minor procedures at around 4:15 PM. Our New Haven location has more limited regular hours and is currently open for appointments and emergencies primarily on Mondays. However, we hope to better serve our East New Haven and Shoreline patients by opening additional hours at this location.

6.1. Central Orange County Location

We are conveniently located in Orange County, no matter where you live in the area. Our central location is easy to find whether you’re coming from North or South Orange County. We are just a few short minutes from the 55, 5 and 22 freeways. Our location within the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, CHOC, campus also provides easy access and peace of mind for those needing any kind of outpatient or inpatient surgery. We have ample parking located directly in front of our practice. We know how difficult parking in medical complexes can be and we strive to make it as painless as possible. You’ll never have to search for a spot or walk across a huge complex to reach us. Our office is wheelchair friendly as it is located on the first floor of CHOC’s Hewes Medical Plaza. This central location was chosen to make access to our practice as convenient as possible for our patients.

6.2. Extended Office Hours

This facility is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. We understand that our patients live busy lives and often have hectic work and school schedules. We have made a commitment to patient care and have extended our office hours to better serve you. By offering evening and weekend appointments, we feel this accommodates our patients’ needs. This also allows for better communication between our doctors and your referring dentist. We understand that it is often difficult to schedule meetings between the patient, the doctor, and the referring dentist due to conflicting business hours. By extending our hours, we believe that it is now much more convenient to have telephone consultations between the doctors regarding patient treatment. In the event of a dental emergency, we will make every attempt to schedule a same-day appointment. In serious cases, we will make special arrangements to see you after hours or on the weekend.

7. Insurance and Payment Options

We will accept any PPO insurance. We can submit to all insurance providers, but patients will have better coverage if they see an in-network provider. We are in network with Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, and Metlife. If you do not see your provider listed, please call our office, and we can verify our participation with the provider. Each individual insurance plan varies, and we can verify coverage for the patient’s procedure upon examination in the office. Patient portion is due the day of surgery when we bill medical insurance.

We will provide a close estimate based on the information we are given from your insurance when we verify benefits. Factors such as secondary insurance, coverage percentages, and annual maximums can affect the amount we are given, so the estimate may not always be exact. We also require a valid credit card to be kept on file for any remaining balances after insurance has paid. The card must belong to the patient, parent, or spouse. Any patients billing their insurance for anesthesia services only will be required to make a deposit of $150. This is only an estimated deposit and can vary depending on the final payment from the insurance. Any balances will be billed to the patient.

7.1. Accepted Insurance Providers

Note: All patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation visit.

Please bring your insurance information with you to the consultation so that we can expedite reimbursement.

At Orange County’s Specialists in Oral Surgery, we make every effort to provide you with the finest surgical care and the most convenient financial options. To accomplish this, we work hand-in-hand with you to maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures. If you have any problems or questions, please ask our staff. They are well-informed and here to assist you.

We do everything we can to help you afford the treatment you need and want. For patients who require major work, a complete payment plan is designed with an appropriate payment schedule. Please call the office for more information.

7.2. Flexible Payment Plans

Whatever your current financial situation, we will be able to work with you to find a solution to help you receive the care you need. You shouldn’t have to delay surgical or dental treatment that can put your health at risk, or cause added discomfort, because you fear you can’t afford it. Whether you are seeking a needed or desired procedure, our practice offers a variety of flexible payment plans to fit a budget you can comfortably afford. We offer several interest-free plans, some up to 24 months, as well as extended payment plans with low interest. Our office staff is always available to help you with your insurance claims and paperwork. We’ll work with your insurance provider to make sure that your coverage meets your needs and your budget.

We will do whatever we can to help you afford the treatment you need and want. For patients who require major work, a complete payment plan is designed with an appropriate payment schedule. We also accept Care Credit with various interest-free plans. This popular payment option for health and wellness allows our patients to make convenient monthly payments over a period of time that makes sense for you. With the addition of Care Credit to your payment options, we enable even those patients with less than perfect credit to secure financing for healthcare services.

8 conclusion

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This is considered for both the new and old online purchasers. Thus, the potential of earning from both new and old customers for the technology-based consumers is high to purchase online in the future, while the traditional-based customers have a lesser probability to purchase online compared to them.

References:

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