Transforming Smiles: The Best Oral Surgeons in Orange County Await

1. Introduction

Most people fear going to the dentist for just a regular check-up and a clean, often alone a dental procedure. The thought of even getting teeth removed or having facial surgery is daunting. In today’s society, it is increasingly socially unacceptable to have missing, decaying, or unattractive teeth. Just as first impressions are most important in a social situation, a good set of teeth can also have a huge effect on self-esteem and can be vital to the success of any endeavor in life. An oral surgeon is a specialist of dental surgery and is a vital component in the journey to obtaining healthy, beautiful teeth.

The initial aspect to being a good oral surgeon is a high degree of expertise in the area. This includes an in-depth knowledge of dental disease and the ability to diagnose and manage the disease. Improvement in surgical skills has been made in the past 20 years due to technological advances. Surgery ranging from routine tooth extraction to complex jaw realignment is often needed to fix dental problems. A good oral surgeon needs to know, and know when not, to proceed with surgery. With modern anesthetics and an understanding of the physiology and biochemistry of wound healing and bone repair, an oral surgeon can greatly improve the comfort and safety of the patient and the predictability of the outcome.

1.1. Importance of Oral Surgeons

An oral surgeon is usually consulted when the dental case is beyond the capabilities of a general dentist or when someone is in need of complex medical treatment.

Education and training for oral surgeons is extensive. After the completion of a bachelor’s degree and four years of dental school, aspiring surgeons must complete at least four to six years of additional training. This includes asynchronous learning and clinical instruction. With experience, oral surgeons become efficient in the extraction of both simple and impacted teeth. In addition, their skill sets involve the reconstruction of alveolar ridges, mandibular and maxilla, and oral neck. These possible procedures are usually performed in a hospital setting and vary depending on the severity of the patient’s case.

Surgical procedures are sometimes necessary in remedying oral problems, thus making the assistance of an oral surgeon vital. Oral surgeons possess the knowledge and skills needed to remedy diseases, defects, and injuries in a swift and safe manner. Their expertise involves a high understanding of medical and dental emergencies.

In many cases, an individual who suffers from an affliction is incapacitated and cannot decide the best form of treatment alone. Oral diseases and injuries are in a class of their own as they affect the most used entry in the human body: the mouth. Though these afflictions are not life-threatening, studies show that untreated oral diseases can lead to more serious health problems.

As Bonnie L. Brennan once said, “Don’t wait for six strong men to take you to church.” This is true in most cases, especially for illnesses and medical treatments. While some diseases have been eradicated, there are those that resurface and can only be relieved through medical intervention.

1.2. Role of Oral Surgeons in Smile Transformation

In recent years, a beautiful smile is something that more and more people are striving to achieve. Media and celebrity smiles play a large role in this, with images in magazines and on television increasing the desire for the “perfect smile”. With cosmetic dentistry rapidly advancing, achieving this has never been easier. In the dental industry, cosmetic dentistry is now the most sought-after area of treatment. This is not surprising when statistics on the importance of an attractive smile are taken into consideration.

In a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), it was found that virtually all Americans (99.7%) believe a smile is an important social asset, and 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to members of the opposite sex. The importance of achieving a perfect smile is crucial as it is an important aspect of a person’s self-esteem, and the result of a beautiful smile often has a positive change in the person’s personal and professional life. With significance in mind, people often turn to the best possible solution in achieving a beautiful smile. This leads to the involvement of oral surgeons in the cosmetic dentistry pathway.

Dental specialists in the field of oral surgery are more commonly referred to as oral surgeons. This is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses primarily on the mouth, jaw, and neck. In order to become an oral surgeon, one must attend further education after completing their degree in dentistry and then follow up with several years of hospital training in their specialty. Conditions famously treated by oral surgeons include wisdom teeth removal, corrective jaw surgery, and dental implant surgery. But an area which often goes unnoticed is the role of oral surgeons in contributing to cosmetic dentistry, specifically smile transformation.

2. Finding the Best Oral Surgeon in Orange County

In order to ensure that you pinpoint one of the several very best oral surgeons in Orange County, you need to look closely at each one. Essentially, the most favored method to determine who the very best oral surgeon in Orange County is merely word of mouth. It can be the best option to locate someone through referrals. Talk to your friends or family members who’ve had oral surgery and learn about their experiences and if they would recommend their oral surgeon.

Additionally, talk to your primary care giver or dentist to see if they’re able to advocate a great oral surgeon. People inside the medical profession typically know who the most effective specialists are and frequently can steer you in the correct direction. After enabling you to analyze your info, you’ve got to find the best oral surgeon for you personally. This will demand some more in-depth study. Appear up the surgeon’s board certification.

See which procedures they’re most comfy doing and which ones they have probably the most experience with. It truly is essential they are specialists in the procedures you need done. Unfortunately, several oral surgeons are overconfident and can attempt to persuade you that they’re able to do a procedure that is, in reality, above their ability level. Be sure that they have a clean disciplinary record and haven’t had any malpractice suits. If you will find any doubts, it really is best to move onto another surgeon.

2.1. Researching Local Oral Surgeons

1.2 Contact potential oral surgeons. After compiling a list of potential oral surgeons, the next step is to contact each surgeon regarding their surgical practices. Usually, an individual will contact the surgeon’s receptionist who will then describe the oral surgeon’s practice to the individual and answer any insurance or billing questions. Make sure to have a set of questions ready to ask the receptionist regarding surgery details as well as any billing questions. This list of questions can be made by asking friends and family who have had a similar surgery done. During the call, if the receptionist does not have time to speak to you, then maybe this isn’t the right surgeon for the surgery at hand. Another option would be to get an email address for the oral surgeon and send down a list of questions to be answered at a later time.

1.1 Research local oral surgeons. It is important not to base your decision on an oral surgeon solely on the recommendation of someone else. Your idea of the right oral surgeon may not be the same as the other person. Therefore, a list of potential oral surgeons needs to be compiled by the person who is making the decision. To gather a list, simply ask around about the different oral surgeons in the community. This can be done with a friend or a coworker. Another good resource to use is a family doctor who will have the scoop on all the doctors in your location. If a list cannot be compiled through these resources, try logging on to the internet and do a local search for an oral surgeon in your area. This should yield plenty of results to begin a search on. Remember to keep your list around 5-10 surgeons to limit the number of consultations.

2.2. Reading Patient Reviews

Reading patient reviews on oral surgeons can be very enlightening. Although it is prudent to keep in mind that some patients’ reviews may be highly subjective and not always a fair reflection of the surgeon’s capabilities. Even so, reading through a large number of reviews will give a good cross-section of patients’ experiences, and it’s surprising how often a clear picture emerges indicating whether patients generally have a good or bad experience with a particular surgeon or surgical practice.

There are numerous websites where patients can write reviews for the benefit of others considering the same surgical procedures, and many oral surgeons will have a handful of reviews on them scattered around the web. For every person who leaves a review of their surgeon, there are probably ten others who could also leave comments on the same surgeon but choose not to. Even so, surgery is a major event in a person’s life, and it does constitute a significant life event that some people will wish to share in writing.

The best place to read somewhat longer accounts of a person’s oral surgery experience would be on online public health forums where individuals go to ask questions about their medical care. Some individuals may write very long accounts of their oral surgery experience that can be very useful for someone else in a similar position.

2.3. Consulting with Dentists for Recommendations

Oddly enough, finding a recommendation for a compatible oral surgeon from the dentist that the patient is fond of may be a bit difficult. Patient A describes his conversation with his dentist, who he has much faith in and respect for “I asked about Dr. X and Y but he said he didn’t know much about them. Then I asked about Dr. Z who he said was a great guy. But I don’t believe he knows Dr. Z professionally because when I asked if he could recommend me to him, he said he didn’t know how to get in touch with him”.

This may seem more difficult than it has to be, but the fact of the matter is that oral surgeons and dentists don’t usually connect with one another, and when they do, they usually have little to do and only a few casual words to exchange. The ideal way to go about getting a dentist’s referral is to make sure that the oral surgeon is someone who the dentist knows well, and knows his work is above par. This may take a little time, probing and even setting up a phone call between the two dental professionals, but patients agree that if they are going to be trusting their oral health to someone, they want a referral for the best in the area.

When trying to find the best oral surgeon in Orange County, the general consensus is that one does not entirely trust their teeth to just anyone. However, if one happened to move to the area of Orange County, and knows not a soul, how might they find the best oral surgeon? This is a situation that many have found themselves in, and have turned to their dentist for help. A dentist is a great resource of information because they have been around the area for a while (presumably), and know the other professionals in the area in addition to their reputation.

3. Services Offered by Oral Surgeons

By 17, most adults have thirty-two teeth: sixteen in the upper jaw and sixteen in the lower jaw. The average mouth is made to hold only twenty-eight teeth. It can be a painful experience trying to cram those last four teeth in. The best dentist in Orange County, CA for this procedure is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon as they are the only dental specialists given permission by the Dental Association to put patients under using a general anesthetic.

Extractions done at a younger age have a lower chance of complications. People in their late teens and early twenties typically have less discomfort and a quicker, easier recovery. A surgical removal is easier than a simple extraction done at a later age as the tooth is not completely formed and the surrounding bone is less dense. If you have an impacted tooth, waiting can cause the problem to worsen. So it is best to get the removal done sooner to avoid any complications. This rarely requires a hospital visit as the outpatient procedure will be done in the surgeon’s office.

He will use a general anesthetic so you are asleep and do not feel any pain. A qualified professional will tell high school and college athletes to sit out a few days to resume normal activity and 3-4 days before they resume any extensive exercising to avoid the risk of dry sockets or delayed healing. This is the best time to get this procedure done since immobilization is often needed for several days.

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. This requires surgery to position a metal anchor into the jawbone. The anchor will fuse with the bone and form a secure base for the artificial tooth. This is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that provides the patient with a natural-looking, long-lasting smile.

3.1. Dental Implants

One of the most effective methods, though costly, is known as all on four. This is where a whole set of false teeth is supported by 4-6 implants. This method provides a stable denture with a fast recovery time and little discomfort. It is also effective for those who have low bone density or volume. This method has the closest result to natural teeth both functionally and aesthetically. This method normally requires a new denture as the existing denture will not fit. A temporary denture is then worn until the new denture is made.

Another alternative is to have mini-implants, which have a less invasive insertion but are not suitable for everyone. The denture can also be held in place by locators that are inserted into the implants or a metal bar. This is known as an over-denture. An alternative to a post is to have several implants and construct a fixed bridge. This is a more costly method but can add years to the denture’s life by eliminating the stress.

Implants are the second option to provide a fixed denture. There are many types of implants available. The most common method is a plate form implant in which a titanium screw is placed into the jaw bone. There is a waiting period of 3 months to a year when the gum is then given time to heal over the implant bed, during this time the implant integrates itself to the jaw bone. This process is known as osseointegration. Once the gum has healed, a post is attached to the implant. The gum around the post is then left to heal. A false tooth is then constructed and a crown is attached to the post. As the false teeth are attached to the posts, they do not move within the mouth.

3.2. Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Your wisdom teeth are a third set of molars in the back of your mouth. They usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25, and they’re spotted on X-rays. Since they’re the last to come in, the mouth is often already crowded at that point. So when they align themselves for entrance, the other teeth may be pushed around, and it may be too late to find space for them. They can become impacted, causing extraction to be necessary.

The approximations of the angles at which the wisdom teeth grow can be deciphered from the state of root angulation. An inexact method of doing this is by examining which way impacted third molars “point” on a panoramic X-ray. Unfortunately, this method is highly unreliable and a CT scan, which is three dimensional, would accurately assess the position of the third molars. Periodontal probing and measurement of periodontal pocket depths around the adjacent second molars can provide valuable information regarding the periodontal health of second molars, but it is a soft-tissue measurement.

3.3. Corrective Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery is an important stage for patients having a variety of dentofacial deformities, which can range from severe malocclusion to abnormal facial skeletal proportion. Jaw surgery is usually thought of as the correction of a significant under or overbite, but there are numerous other legitimate reasons for jaw surgery, including but not limited to injury and birth defects. Severe malocclusion can also occur as a result of improper tooth loss due to decay or injury.

For a few patients, the objective of jaw surgery will be to improve function, while for others, jaw surgery will be done in combination with teeth straightening to improve appearance. Usually, jaw alignment and function will be significantly improved immediately upon completion of surgery. The direction of the progress of corrective jaw therapy will vary greatly from patient to patient depending on the nature and severity of the initial condition. Treatment will often finish with the removal of orthodontic appliances and wisdom teeth.

If you have a malocclusion that is affecting your quality of life significantly, it is worthwhile exploring the various treatment options, likelihood of treatment success, and comparing the treatment quality of your local oral and maxillofacial surgeon. High-quality treatment has the capacity to change one’s quality of life for the better in every facet, and these changes will often be permanent in nature. This is a good investment, so making an investment in your treatment can be important. In order to be able to make this assessment, you may need to see several oral and maxillofacial surgeons and see what they all have to say about your condition.

3.4. TMJ Treatment

While some of the numerous treatment options may still be subject to scientific scrutiny, there are a few general principles which apply for management of TMJ disorders. It is widely accepted that treatment should be as conservative as possible to avoid irreparable changes to the structures of the TMJ and surrounding tissues. A simple example is the use of a splint to resolve a clicking TMJ. As TMJ clicking is not always associated with pain or an irregular function, it does not require immediate treatment and in many cases the patient has no awareness of the clicking.

A flat-plane splint may be used to prevent wear of the joint and disc in cases where there are signs of degenerative joint disease. The appliance should only cover the minimal number of teeth necessary to obtain a stable occlusion and should be adjusted to create the least change in occlusion. This reduces the risk of further instability of the bite and minimizes the necessity to change the appliance or the patient’s dentition. Finally, the management of all symptoms should aim to achieve a stable and pain-free jaw with normal range and pattern of movement.

Neuromuscular appliances are commonly used by dentists as a conservative treatment for symptoms of temporomandibular joint pain. Their goal is to relax and reposition the jaw to resolve the mild temporomandibular joint symptoms. Another important method of TMJ treatment is changing the bite to alleviate the root source of the TMJ symptoms. Discrepancies in the bite are often associated with the onset and continuation of TMJ pain.

Bite adjustment involves modifying the biting surfaces of teeth to correct the way the upper and lower teeth close together. This can be achieved through selective grinding of teeth which should only be performed by a dentist experienced with this type of treatment. Braces are also used to change the bite through movement of the teeth over a longer period of time. Often the bite is corrected to a previous state which was pain free and stable. However, in some cases changing the bite may result in further discomfort and should be avoided as a treatment. In such cases, it is important to determine the bite as the underlying cause.

4. Preparing for Oral Surgery

Preoperative instructions are equally important to the actual procedure. We want to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible and the best way to do this is to prevent any errors and provide you with the most efficient treatment possible. The information will consist of what you can and cannot do before surgery, certain restrictions in regards to eating or drinking, and information regarding prescription medications and vitamins. It may include stopping certain medications or antibiotics leading up to surgery and which medications to avoid taking before surgery. It is important to have a clear understanding of this information and urge you to ask questions if any.

Once the patient feels comfortable and an adequate understanding of the proposed treatment has been established, the next step is to prepare for the surgery. A surgery date will be determined at this time and you will be given instructions on how to prepare for surgery as well as a preoperative consultation appointment. This can take place over the phone or in our office at OC Center. During the consultation, you will discuss the specific needs and expectations that you may have in addition to reviewing medical history to ensure safe treatment. An explanation of the surgery and postoperative course will provide the patient with a better understanding of what to expect. This also is a great time to ask any final questions.

The initial consultation allows the patient and Dr. Cullers, Dr. Carlos, Dr. Charoen, Dr. Aghaloo, Dr. Deldar or Dr. Salib to meet in order to discuss the upcoming surgery. The doctors will do an examination of the affected area and review the x-ray that correlates to that specific procedure. They will then provide you with a detailed explanation of your diagnosis using the x-ray and their personal experiences in addition to the range of treatment options. It is important to us that we answer any questions the patient has and ease the concern of any anxiety.

There is a lot to consider and prepare for prior to your oral surgery procedure. Below you will find information on what to expect and how to better prepare yourself for surgery. It is important to us that you are well informed and your mind is at ease before your procedure.

4.1. Initial Consultation

The first stage is your initial consultation. You might have had dental x-rays and/or models within the last year, so our staff will want to evaluate if these are current enough to avoid retakes. A copy of the x-ray and a referral slip from your referring dentist. You will be more proactive in this initial consultation than in any of the others. The oral surgeon will take a full medical and dental history. Have a list of your physicians and their phone numbers handy in case the surgeon needs them.

There are several things that we need to know before embarking on any surgery. With whom have you discussed your medical and dental problems? What are your chief complaints and how would you like us to help you solve them? The pain, while appearing to be in the area of one tooth, may be due to an entirely different problem. Quite often the surgeon can devise an alternative treatment plan that eliminates or at least minimizes surgery. A clear understanding of your problem will help us address whether surgery is the most advantageous choice.

We want to be thorough in explaining both the procedure itself and the reasons why we have chosen this method over alternative therapies. Your timing is also very important to us. We realize that many of our patients are professionals who have hectic schedules; others may need to schedule surgery during a vacation. In certain procedures, the timing can be critical to the final outcome. All of these things are issues that will need to be openly discussed to make sure you are getting what you expect from surgery. Finally, we will need to present the risks of surgery. This will be covered in the procedure-specific consultation.

4.2. Pre-Operative Instructions

The “responsible adult” accompanying the patient to the surgery must sign the informed anesthesia consent, witnessed by a third party over the age of 18. Failure to do so will result in the surgery being cancelled. We will give you a copy of this consent for your records. An information packet will also be given to the patient or the responsible adult that is to be thoroughly read. Any further questions or concerns will be answered at the time of the consultation or they can be directed towards the doctor or assistants via telephone at the office. By being informed and prepared for the surgery, we can maintain our goal to provide you with the best and safest results with the least amount of anxiety.

H. If you have been told by your physician or dentist that you require antibiotic premedication because of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) or certain types of congenital heart conditions, please make sure that you are on the appropriate antibiotic on the day of your surgery. If you do not have the proper medication, our office will provide you with a prescription. You may take the antibiotic one hour before the surgery time as usually directed.

G. If you wear contact lenses, do not wear them to the surgery. Bring your glasses and case for them to be stored in.

F. Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.

E. If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please contact the office.

D. Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves, and low-heeled shoes.

C. The patient should try and get a full night’s sleep the night before the surgery.

B. The patient should not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for six (6) hours before the surgery. If the patient is diabetic, then the surgery is to be at the beginning of the day and he/she may not eat anything for the last 12 hours.

A. A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.

4.3. Medications and Anesthesia

A variety of interactive equipment is used in the OMS office, including intra-oral cameras, digital X-rays, and 3D imaging equipment. The type of equipment to be used will depend on the procedure involved. These interactive tools are very helpful in assisting the patient to understand any issues and to see the proposed treatment.

The oral surgeon can take magnified images of the patient’s oral cavity and teeth and display them on a computer screen; patients can also watch an educational video. The digital X-rays and 3D imaging equipment are also valuable in explaining the details of a surgical procedure to a patient, as well as in allowing the patient to understand and compare the different surgical options. A clear, in-depth explanation and consultation between the patient and the surgeon is critical, especially with the increasing popularity of minimally invasive procedures.

5. The Oral Surgery Procedure

The oral surgery procedure encompasses a wide array of surgical interventions and the removal of a lump, bump, or tumor may be necessary. Often times, the removal of these growths can involve intraoral or extraoral incisions and/or the need for sedation. It is a common misconception that removing a tumor always requires a hospital stay. In many cases, surgery can be performed in the office setting under local anesthesia, with minimal discomfort and recovery.

Surgical techniques used for oral surgery are as varied as the issues they address. Depending on the procedure, your oral surgeon may elect to use one of the following techniques for your surgery: routine tooth extraction, complex tooth extraction, or surgical tooth extraction. Regardless of the problem or the surgical intervention needed, these procedures can effectively address the patient’s issue with minimal postoperative discomfort. The duration and recovery time for an oral surgery procedure can range from short to medium term.

In many cases, these surgeries require little time or rehabilitation; patients may be able to resume regular activity and work the following day. In cases with more complicated surgical interventions such as maxillofacial surgery to correct a bite anomaly, the recovery time can be more extensive, with a temporary change in the patient’s appearance. One clear advantage of having oral surgery as opposed to other surgical interventions is that the surgical site is easily accessible and can be effectively managed by the patient. This can promote faster healing and fewer postoperative complications.

5.1. Surgical Techniques

The open method involves making an incision into the gum and possibly into the skin of the cheek if the surgery is taking place on the back teeth and involves the wisdom teeth. This is a technique commonly employed when a surgeon is removing a small piece of bone which may be holding the tooth in place and is also employed when removing teeth that are severely damaged or broken. The incision allows the surgeon better visibility and an easier access point to the problem area. Once the bone or tooth has been removed, the incision is sewn up and allowed to heal. This method is quite invasive and usually results in a longer recovery time for the patient but may be necessary for difficult procedures.

After carefully researching the subject of oral surgery, it has become clear to me that the surgeon must be well-versed in a variety of surgical techniques before undertaking the simple extraction of teeth. There are two main types of surgical techniques in oral surgery. The first is the open method, and the second is the closed method. The closed method is also known as flap surgery and is usually the more preferred method.

5.2. Duration and Recovery Time

Oral surgery falls into two broad categories: simple extractions and more complex surgical extractions. Simple extractions usually involve a single tooth and they are the most routine type of oral surgery. Surgical extractions tend to be more complex and they can include the removal of impacted or fractured teeth. The complexity of a surgical extraction means that the patient may be awake but given sedation. The various types of sedation are all aimed at diminishing any pain or discomfort during the operation.

Local anesthetic that numbs the extraction site is the most common form of sedation and it allows the patient to be conscious during the operation. More complex surgery may involve a stronger form of sedation where the patient is conscious but will have little recollection of the procedure. Finally, some patients require general anesthesia where they are put to sleep for the entire operation. The decision on the type of sedation used is usually made in conjunction with the oral surgeon and the patient.

5.3. Potential Risks and Complications

A partial list of potential complications includes: hemorrhaging, hematoma, prolonged swelling and bruising, limited jaw opening, injuries to the nerves which could result in tingling or numbness on the tongue, lip, chin or teeth (rarely a permanent condition), sinus problems (when removing upper wisdom teeth), infection or a reaction to medication. These complications would all be discussed further in person should a decision for surgery be made and specific questions be asked to the surgeon. In the case of an emergency, patients will be given written instructions on what to do and who to contact. It is important to note that all oral surgeons are trained in emergency procedures as a part of their specialty training. And they always have a back-up plan for any unexpected situation.

Potential risks and complications with oral surgery are minimal, but they do exist. This is why it is important for the patient to disclose their full medical history to the surgeon and also follow their pre and post-operative instructions carefully. This will enable the surgeon to take necessary precautions to try and prevent any potential complications and will also help the patient to have a quicker and more comfortable recovery.

6. Post-Operative Care

First and foremost, it is important for all of our surgery patients to understand that wisdom teeth are a form of back teeth, or molars. Thus, depending on the position and maturity of the tooth, the surgery can be the equivalent of a root tip extraction or a tooth extraction, and the healing times can vary.

Typically, healing is faster for younger patients with less mature teeth and slower for older patients, with healing being defined as having a soft, non-painful area at the surgery site. Usually, in the case of erupted wisdom teeth or teeth deemed unrestorable due to cavity or fracture, healing is uneventful and occurs within a few days to a week with a minimum of post-operative pain and swelling. In these cases, where relatively simple extractions are performed, patients can usually return to their normal daily activities within a day or two.

Post-operative care is often as important as the surgery itself. For this reason, we at Pacific Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery stress the importance of our patients’ commitment to their post-operative care. We will never minimize the potential for complications after surgery, nor the magnitude of the significance of proper care. At PCOMS it is of the utmost importance that we do everything we can to minimize the potential for infection and maximize our patient’s comfort and satisfaction.

6.1. Managing Pain and Swelling

Pain and swelling following dental surgery are not uncommon, and it is often at its worst 24-48 hours after surgery. There are a number of things that can help to manage this. Firstly, strong painkillers are often prescribed following surgery and these should be taken as directed. Importantly, these should not be taken on an empty stomach as this can lead to nausea. If you are not able to take standard painkillers or have been given a different type of painkiller for your surgery, it is important that you clarify this with your surgeon.

It is important to remember that most opiate-based painkillers can cause constipation, so it is advisable to increase fiber intake through cereals, fruit, and vegetables and take plenty of water. If you have been given steroids for swelling, these will help to reduce pain too, and the more you are able to reduce the facial swelling, generally the more comfortable you will feel. Ice packs can also be used to reduce swelling, up to 24 hours after the surgery, but they are not usually effective for pain that is not related to swelling. Lastly, resting with your head elevated may help to reduce the blood flow to the area, which in turn will reduce swelling and pain.

6.2. Oral Hygiene Instructions

Exercising proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing infection and ensuring proper healing. On occasion, slight discoloration in the area of the surgery may occur. This is simply a natural inflammatory response, which with time, will resolve and the tissue will return to a healthy, normal color. We highly recommend keeping with your regular 6-month dental cleaning and check-up schedule. Often your oral surgeon will wish to see you back within 1-2 weeks following your surgical procedure to ensure proper and healthy healing of the surgical site.

The day after surgery, the patient should begin rinsing with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water rinse) after each meal and before bedtime. It is best to rinse for 30 seconds and spit it out. You may have been given a plastic syringe to assist in keeping the tooth sockets clean. Gentle irrigation with this syringe and warm water will flush out food particles and debris. Beginning 24 hours after surgery, you may begin brushing your teeth, being careful to avoid the surgical sites. All removable appliances (partials, dentures, etc.) should be kept clean and should not be used during the first week unless otherwise instructed.

6.3. Follow-Up Appointments

Patients will be seen regularly during the first year following the surgery. The post-operative follow-up schedule will vary from patient to patient depending on the surgery and individual needs. When you no longer need to see our surgeon, you will be referred back to your dentist. It is important to continue your regular dental visits, flossing, and brushing to prevent future dental problems.

Any patients who have had a bone graft need to make sure they have taken regular fluoride in the first year following their surgery. It is a requirement to have your jaw joints and the feeling in your mouth checked at every visit to make sure your teeth are in the best position for long-term results. Patients treated for facial trauma will be seen until it is evident that the treatment is complete. This will involve checking the results of treatment with x-rays and making sure there are no problems with the occlusion (bite) or the TMJ. A letter will be written to the GP, and the patient will be discharged from the clinic with a copy of this letter.

7. Cost and Insurance Coverage

As stated earlier, good oral health is an important part of the overall health of your body. Many medical problems can begin in the mouth. Several studies have shown a link between periodontal (gum) disease and an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and preterm birth. Dental insurance is separate from medical insurance, and an increasing number of employers are offering it as part of their employee benefits package.

When dental insurance does cover a surgical procedure, it is usually considered to be a medical in nature (extractions, biopsies, tumor removal, etc.) and is not performed by the oral surgeon in the course of routine tooth maintenance. This means the coverage will be determined based on a percentage of medical, not dental, benefits and may require a predetermination to check for crossover benefits. Each insurance policy is different, and only the insurer can fully explain your benefits. At the time the surgery is performed, our office staff will help you determine the extent of your coverage.

7.2. Dental Insurance Coverage

The best way to determine the precise cost of a particular procedure is to schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon. However, we have provided a general range of costs you might expect. These prices refer to the cost of the procedure itself and do not include the cost of consultations or follow-up care provided by the oral surgeon.

7.1. Pricing for Different Oral Surgery Procedures

It is difficult to determine the cost of a particular oral surgical procedure when there are so many variables involved. These may include who the provider is (general dentist vs. oral surgeon), the type of facility where the procedure is performed, and what medications are required after surgery. However, we can offer general information about the expected cost of various oral surgical procedures.

7.1. Pricing for Different Oral Surgery Procedures

There are a number of different types of oral surgery procedures, ranging from minor to major surgery. The type of surgery will affect the cost. For example, a patient having a small dental implant surgery will require a different type of procedure compared to a patient having a wisdom tooth removed. In general, minor surgeries will start at a few hundred dollars, moving up to a few thousand. More complicated surgeries can be several thousand dollars.

In between treatments include procedures such as tooth extractions or biopsies, these can be anywhere in the range of a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Many oral surgeons will provide an estimate of the cost of the procedure during the initial consultation. There are many price variations in different areas of the country for the same type of surgery. Some types of dental surgery are subsidized by the public health system. This is quite rare however and waiting lists will often be very long for publicly funded procedures. This is because there are a limited amount of oral surgeons who take jobs within the public health sector.

7.2. Dental Insurance Coverage

Reconstructive dental surgical procedures that are necessary for medical reasons are usually partially covered by insurance companies. Although the specific percentage of coverage can still vary, procedures such as orthognathic surgery or dental implants may be covered as they are necessary to reverse an oral disease, injury, or birth defect. Given that many of these procedures can be quite costly, the coverage from insurance policies can make reconstructive oral surgery more affordable for many patients. Elective oral surgery usually has a very low percentage of insurance coverage. Most insurance policies do not cover elective procedures as there is no medical necessity. Patients interested in elective procedures should consult their insurance company to find out what level of coverage is available.

Dental insurance helps patients get affordable access to oral surgeons in Orange County. Usually, dental insurance policies cover anywhere from 50% to 80% of oral surgery. Medical insurance policies, when they are applicable, usually cover a similar percentage. Since the type of insurance coverage available varies widely, it is important that a patient evaluate their insurance policy and contact their insurance company to see if their surgery is a covered expense.

7.3. Financing Options

Funding Options Before discussing other funding options for surgery, it should be stated that HMO and Medicaid insurances do cover the full extent of some surgeries. This offers an equivalent pricing option for patients with low-income or state funded insurance. This makes the surgery an equal possibility for all income levels and is a justice to the patient seeking alternative surgery and the surgery itself. For an equal justice, patient should know if they indeed need an HMO or Medicaid referent, surgery can be delayed for this insurance to be attained. A surgeon may not prefer this option, but the opportunity still exists.

Introduction Patients are scheduled for surgery in the oral surgery clinic at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College. During the surgeon-patient consultation, one of the great hesitancies for a patient accepting surgery is financial concerns. Relating this to clinical appointments, patients may cancel a necessary procedure due to financial concerns. As with all other surgeries, work-up, surgery and potential complications are a possibility. The patient strives to understand the possibility of other funding sources for surgery, if self-funding is negative. This chapter is designed to aid the nurse or surgeon in giving the patient appropriate funding options.

8. Choosing the Right Oral Surgeon for You

Choosing a surgeon who is highly qualified and experienced can be an overwhelming task. It is recommended that you ask the dentist who will be the best person to perform the procedure. Also inquire about whether the surgeon is board certified in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The surgeon’s CV should be readily available and should provide detailed information about their training and experience. The CV should be able to explain a reasonable amount of experience in regards to the specific procedure that is being considered.

The CV should outline extensive experience in academic teaching and research in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Published works in medical and dental journals reflect a sincere interest in the field and an ongoing pursuit to be a master of the profession. This activity is a good sign that the surgeon is up to date with the latest technology and is constantly improving his skill level. A highly qualified and experienced surgeon loves what they do, values patient health and displays a commitment to overall well being of the patient.

In order to have the best surgical experience and overall oral health, one should consider several important factors when choosing the oral surgeon who is the best fit. These factors include assessing the surgeon’s qualifications and experience, evaluating the surgeon’s communication and bedside manner, and considering personal comfort level and trust. By taking the time to carefully evaluate prospective oral surgeons along these lines, one’s oral health and overall wellbeing are less likely to be compromised.

8.1. Assessing Qualifications and Experience

Experience is a valuable asset for a surgeon. The more an oral surgeon performs a certain procedure, the better the result will be. A study compared the results of tooth extraction between a seasoned dental practitioner and an inexperienced one. The study concludes that the more extractions done by the seasoned dental practitioner, the smaller the chance of complications that will arise. The experienced dentist would also manage to handle complications much better than the inexperienced one.

This also applies to tooth implants and other oral surgery procedures. An experienced surgeon knows how to find the best solution for your case. He knows the pros and cons of the solution and whether the outcome will satisfy you. Still, the decision is in your hands. Being knowledgeable about your surgeon’s skills, you must carefully weigh the benefits and cost of the procedure suggested.

You would not want an inexperienced dentist to experiment inside your mouth. Use the same rules when selecting an oral surgeon. You need someone who has enough knowledge and experience in oral surgery procedures, and someone who is familiar with your problem. Inquire about his educational and professional background. How often does he attend training? Also, examine how your surgeon interacts with the other medical professionals. A good surgeon works together with an anesthesiologist and nurses to provide the best care for you. He should also be able to explain clearly what should be done.

If he is uncertain about the procedure or the outcome, he should be honest and tell you that he is unsure and will need to consult with others. A good oral surgeon would take no unnecessary risks. If he thinks that your case is complicated and better handled by another specialist, he would refer you to one. This signifies that the surgeon puts your interest first before his own.

8.2. Evaluating Communication and Bedside Manner

A surgeon’s demeanor can significantly impact your experience throughout the period of surgery as well as during recovery. Hand in hand with effective communication, a positive bedside manner can alleviate any anxieties or concerns. Patients need to find a surgeon who consistently makes them feel comfortable and is willing to spend the time to ensure that they are fully informed about their treatment.

Surgeons who are brusque, in a hurry, or who avoid eye contact may not be effective at communicating and can often leave patients feeling ignored or confused. A surgeon who tells you that you have the option to ask any questions or request him to stop at any time during the procedure is demonstrating their willingness to inclusively inform and put the patient at ease. Effective communication and a positive bedside manner are often indicative of a surgeon who genuinely cares about their patient and their treatment. A considerate surgeon will be looking out for your best interests in regards to your health.

An often overlooked aspect of effective communication is language. Patients should search for a surgeon who is fluent in the language in which they are most comfortable communicating. This will alleviate any confusions or misunderstandings between patient and surgeon. One surefire way to gauge a surgeon’s communication and bedside manner is to directly ask the surgeon to address a specific healthcare concern that is on your mind. How he responds should give you a strong indicator of what you can expect throughout your treatment.

8.3. Considering Personal Comfort and Trust

A patient’s personal comfort is a key aspect in choosing the right oral surgeon. Surgery of any nature is a stressful experience for patients, and undergoing oral surgery is no different. Whether it be a simple tooth extraction, or a more complicated dental implant or wisdom tooth removal, patients prefer to feel at ease when embarking on their surgery as it alleviates unnecessary anxieties. This can be achieved by having a consultation appointment with the oral surgeon prior to the surgery.

The patient should assess their comfort level in the surgeon’s presence; whether or not the oral surgeon is approachable, amicable and open to questioning. Patients should feel they are able to ask the surgeon anything they are unsure of regarding their surgery in the belief they will receive a full and comprehensible answer. Accompanying this, the location and environment of a surgeon’s practice can be the deciding factor for a patient. Perhaps a top tier oral surgeon is located in an area which is geographically inconvenient to the patient.

This is a negative as the patient may have to prioritize practicality over quality or care, and choose a less accomplished surgeon in a more convenient location. The patient should also assess the amicability of the surgeon’s staff and quality of care they receive, as an accommodating staff can alleviate anxieties and ensure a smoother experience for the patient.

9 Conclusion:

In conclusion, having access to one of the best oral surgeons in Orange County for any type of dental work will be very beneficial. Oral surgeons are needed for a variety of dental procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, and bone grafts. Such procedures can be crucial to a person’s oral health and can affect your smile and eating habits if not done properly. With an office in Orange County, you will have no problem finding a quality oral surgeon who is experienced in any type of oral surgery.

You are more likely to get quality service and aftercare with an oral surgeon who really cares about how you are doing prior to making sure you are informed and comfortable before surgery. The aftercare process is very important as your doctor should follow up after a procedure to make sure there are no issues and that you are healing properly. Your oral surgeon will also work with you as far as the cost of the procedure and what type of insurance you may have. Overall, Orange County has a variety of options when it comes to a quality oral surgeon and it should not be hard to find the right one. 

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