Oral Surgery FAQ

Question 1

What types of oral surgery do you perform?

Accepted Answer

We provide a comprehensive range of oral surgery procedures including wisdom teeth removal, tooth extractions, dental implant placement, bone grafting, and treatment for dental infections. We also handle emergency surgical needs and can address impacted teeth or prepare your mouth for dentures. Each procedure is performed with precision and care, using modern techniques to minimize discomfort and promote faster healing. If you're unsure whether your condition requires oral surgery, we'll provide a thorough evaluation and discuss all available treatment options with you.

Question 2

Will I be sedated during oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Your comfort is our priority, and we offer several sedation options to match your needs and the complexity of your procedure. These range from local anesthesia for simple extractions to various levels of sedation for more involved surgeries. During your consultation, we'll discuss your medical history, the procedure requirements, and your comfort preferences to determine the best approach. Dr. Pauley will explain each option thoroughly, including what to expect during and after sedation. We'll make sure you're fully informed and comfortable with the sedation plan before proceeding.

Question 3

How long is recovery after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure and individual healing rates. Simple extractions may require just a few days of rest, while wisdom teeth removal or implant placement typically needs about a week for initial healing. We'll provide specific recovery guidelines for your procedure, including dietary recommendations, activity restrictions, and pain management strategies. Most patients can return to work or school within 2-3 days for routine procedures. We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing. Remember, following aftercare instructions carefully helps ensure the smoothest, fastest recovery possible.

Question 4

What should I expect at my consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your consultation begins with a thorough examination and review of your dental and medical history. We'll take any necessary X-rays or 3D images to fully understand your situation. Dr. Pauley will explain his findings in clear terms, discuss treatment options, and answer all your questions. We'll review the procedure details, recovery expectations, and costs. There's never any pressure to schedule surgery immediately – we want you to feel confident in your decision. Many patients appreciate bringing a family member to help ask questions and remember important details. You'll leave with a clear understanding of your treatment plan.

Question 5

Do you handle dental emergencies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we understand dental emergencies don't follow a convenient schedule. If you're experiencing severe tooth pain, facial swelling, dental trauma, or bleeding that won't stop, please call our office immediately. We reserve time in our schedule for urgent cases and will do our best to see you the same day. For after-hours emergencies, our voicemail provides instructions for immediate care. Common emergencies we treat include abscessed teeth, broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and severe infections. Quick action often makes a significant difference in outcomes, so don't hesitate to contact us when you need urgent dental care.

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