FAQ's Before And After Surgery
FAQ's Before Surgery:
Do I have to be referred by a dentist to schedule an appointment?
You are not required to have a referral; however, it is strongly recommended. Unnecessary visits can be avoided if you first see a general dentist for a full evaluation, x-rays, and cleaning. Your dentist can develop a treatment plan for you and determine if a visit to our office is needed.
Will I need to have X-Rays taken?
Yes, current x-rays are required for any oral surgery procedure or exam. In some cases, your general dentist may provide you with a copy of your x-ray. Otherwise our staff can take digital x-rays the day of your appointment.
What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS)?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist in the treatment of disease problems associated with the jaw, teeth, mouth and face. The type of problems that we see may be as simple as a tooth extractions.
What is Board Certification?
Board Certification (also known as Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery) is the highest level of academic achievement for an Oral Surgeon. It is not a requirement to practice oral surgery. However, those individuals who are board certified have demonstrated their capabilities and desires to obtain this level of achievement.
Do I need someone to drive me home after surgery, or can I drive?
If you are receiving IV sedation, you will need a driver to drop you off and pick you up from our office. You should not operate any vehicle or hazardous device on the day of surgery. Patients receiving local anesthetic or nitrous oxide can drive home following their procedure.
Can I eat before I come in for surgery? (Please see Pre and Post Operative Surgical Instructions)
If you are receiving IV sedation, you cannot eat or drink 6 hours prior to your procedure. Persons receiving local anesthetic and nitrous oxide may eat a light meal prior to their surgical procedure.
May I make an appointment for a cleaning right after surgery?
No, after your surgical procedure you will need at least one weeks time to heal. Please let your general dentist know that you have had oral surgery and ask their office for an appropriate appointment date for your cleaning.
FAQ's After Surgery:
Will I be really swollen?
In some cases you may or may not be swollen. It all depends on the type of surgical procedure you undergo. Swelling may occur and maximal swelling will occur up to 48 hours after oral surgery.
My pain has gotten significatly worse pain three to four days after my extraction. What should I do?
This could indicate that you may have a dry socket. Please contact our office to make a post operative appointment as soon as possible.
I have pain three to four weeks after my extraction. What should I do?
Typically, this indicates some type of a localized infection. Please call our office at 631-421-2471 so we can evaluate the area.
When can I go back to work?
Everybody heals differently and handles stress to the body in a different way. It all depends on the type of surgical procedure. You can generally resume a normal life and go back to work the day after the operation.
My Sutures came out. What should I do?
We typically use dissolvable sutures (stitches). They begin to dissolve within 2-3 days. It's appropriate for them to come out. If you notice any significant and persistent bleeding, please let us know.
How long do the holes (sockets) in my jaw stay after extractions?
The "holes" are better know as extraction sockets and will generally close within 6 weeks. It will take several months for the sockets to actually fill with bone. If food gets trapped in the socket area, be sure to clean it.