Frequently Asked Questions

Here to Answer Your Oral Surgery Questions

About Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

• What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?

  An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist who is trained in treating a wide range of conditions related to the face, jaws, mouth, and teeth. They are highly trained professionals who have completed extensive education and training in both medicine and dentistry.

  In addition to surgical procedures, oral and maxillofacial surgeons may also provide non-surgical treatments for conditions such as facial pain, snoring, and sleep apnea. They work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as dentists, orthodontists, and medical specialists, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

• How is a maxillofacial surgeon different from a dentist?

  While both dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons work with the teeth, mouth, and jaw, there are some key differences between the two professions.

  Dentists typically focus on preventive care and minor restorative procedures such as fillings, root canals, and simple extractions. They may also provide cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers. Dentists usually work in private practices or clinics and often see patients on a regular basis for check-ups and cleanings.

  On the other hand, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are surgical specialists who have completed extensive education and training beyond dental school. They are qualified to perform more complex procedures that involve the bones and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaw. These may include procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions, dental implant placement, corrective jaw surgery, and treatment of facial trauma. They often work in hospitals or surgical centers and may see patients on a referral basis.

  While both dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons are involved in the care of the teeth and mouth, the training and scope of practice for each profession is different. Dentists focus on the general health of the teeth and gums, while oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in surgical procedures that involve the face, mouth, and jaws.

• What are the qualifications of a maxillofacial surgeon?

  To become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, a person must complete four years of dental school and then complete a four to six-year residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery. They may also choose to complete additional training in a specialized area of the field, such as pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery or cosmetic surgery.

• What does it mean to be board certified?

  Board certification in oral and maxillofacial surgery means a surgeon has met education, training, and testing standards set by the ABOMS. This includes completing a dentistry degree and residency program, passing written and oral exams, and submitting cases to show expertise. Board-certified surgeons must maintain certification through continuing education and recertification. This certification shows a surgeon’s commitment to providing high-quality care and knowledge of the latest techniques. Patients can trust board-certified maxillofacial surgeons for safe and effective surgical care.

Your Treatment & Recovery

• When is a consultation prior to treatment required?

  Treatment can sometimes be done the same day, but for procedures more complicated than an extraction, a consultation is usually required before scheduling surgery.

• How long will it take to recover from maxillofacial surgery?

  Yes. The projected patient payment will be required at the service time. If you possess insurance, we will submit the claim, and any outstanding balance not covered by insurance will be your responsibility. You will receive a bill for this amount.

• How can I ensure an efficient recovery?

  During the recovery period, it’s important to follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. This may include taking medications as prescribed, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and following a special diet.

  Patients may also need to avoid strenuous activity and take time off work or school during the initial recovery period.

• Should I maintain pressure on the gauze following surgery? If yes, for how long?

  It is recommended to keep the gauze in place over the surgical area and bite down on it for at least 30 minutes after returning home. Once you remove the gauze, if there is bright red blood from the surgery site, gently apply a fresh, clean piece of gauze and place it over the site.

• How can I relieve pain after surgery?

  After maxillofacial surgery, your surgeon will likely provide you with instructions on how to manage any pain or discomfort you may experience during the recovery period.

  However, some common ways to relieve pain after surgery include:

  • Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. Your surgeon may also prescribe stronger pain medications if necessary.
  • Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area for short periods of time can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Rest: Taking it easy and avoiding strenuous activity can help promote healing and reduce pain.
  • Soft foods: Eating soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing can help minimize discomfort.
    Salt water rinses: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
  • Keeping the head elevated: Sleeping with the head elevated can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

  It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and to avoid any complications. If you experience severe or prolonged pain after surgery, be sure to contact your surgeon to discuss additional pain management options.

• What do I do if pain continues after a few weeks?

  If you have tried all other options above and your pain persists after 3 weeks, reach out to your surgeon for a follow-up appointment or over-the-phone consultation on the next steps.

• My lip/tongue feel numb after surgery, is that normal?

  It’s normal to experience numbness in your mouth for a few days following oral surgery, and this is usually temporary. However, if the numbness persists, it’s advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to have the area re-evaluated.

• If my sutures fall out, what should I do?

  Typically, resorbable sutures that dissolve on their own are used, so it’s generally okay if they fall out by themselves. However, it’s important to inform your oral surgeon if you experience any significant bleeding.

Payment & Insurance

• How much will it cost?

  Before any procedure, the doctor will assess your requirements. We will confirm your insurance and review the cost estimation, and collect any copays, deductibles, or patient portions due at that time.

• Will I have to pay anything?

  Yes. The projected patient payment will be required at the service time. If you possess insurance, we will submit the claim, and any outstanding balance not covered by insurance will be your responsibility. You will receive a bill for this amount.

• What insurances do you take?

  Tennessee Valley Oral Surgery is in-network with the following insurance:

  • Aetna Dental
  • Delta Dental
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of TN
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Med Advantage
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP
  • Carington Discount Plan
  • Cigna
  • GEHA
  • Humana PPO
  • Humana Gold
  • MetLife PPO
  • MetLife FEP
  • Medicare (Dr. Read and Dr. Slater only)
  • Lincoln Financial
  • UMR
  • United Healthcare
  • United Concordia
  • Connection Dental

• What insurance is under the Connection Dental umbrella?

  Before any procedure, the doctor will assess your requirements. We will confirm your insurance and review the cost estimation, and collect any copays, deductibles, or patient portions due at that time.

• Can my procedure be covered by my medical insurance?

  In some cases, the answer is yes! Depending on your insurance, impacted wisdom teeth and oral biopsies will sometimes be covered by medical insurance. These are typically the only two types of procedures that our office provides that medical insurance may occassionally cover.

  If your plan is one that will cover one of these procedures, we are happy to submit a claim on your behalf to get you as much coverage as possible on your procedure!

Referrals

• Is it necessary to have a referral from another doctor?

  No, a referral is not mandatory. Nevertheless, if you have already received treatment from a general dentist for the same issue that you are scheduled for at our office, we would appreciate it if you could provide us with your patient notes or referral, if available.