Frequently Asked Questions
What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the surgical specialists of the dental profession. After dental school, 4-6 additional years of hospital-based surgical residency training is completed. This includes rotations in general surgery, anesthesia, trauma, and emergency services.
Why should I go to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for tooth extraction?
While many general dentists will perform tooth extractions, patients often prefer the comfort and confidence of having these surgical procedures performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
There is a wide range of variables and outcomes associated with surgical procedures. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have specialized knowledge in pain management and advanced training in anesthesia. Patients who prefer to be asleep or sedated for their extractions will be most comfortable under the care of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
I have already seen my dentist. Why do I need another consult?
We realize you may have discussed treatment with your dentist or other physician. Dr. Lee would need to review x-rays and discuss treatment options, procedure, policy, and anesthesia before any surgery.
Why do I need a current x-ray?
Current radiographs (within the preceding year) are essential for accurate diagnosis. Dr. Lee must be able to see all areas of the face and jaws adjacent to the surgical areas. Changes may occur due to disease or pathology in these areas over time. A recent x-ray of good quality is necessary for quality care.
Why do I need a panoramic x-ray?
Panoramic x-rays show the whole mouth, and are often necessary for an accurate treatment plan. One procedure for which panoramic x-rays are essential is third molar (wisdom teeth) extractions. Dr. Lee must be able to see all areas of the face and jaws adjacent to surgical areas in order to proceed with surgery in a safe manner.
Why do I need to come back for a re-consultation before surgery?
If Dr. Lee has requested to see you again for a consultation before your surgery, it is usually because there has been a significant period of time between your initial consult and the time which you wish to schedule surgery. In some cases there may be circumstances (shifted teeth, recent jaw injury, etc.) that may affect the surgical procedure. Dr. Lee must know the exact position of the tooth or bone on which he will be performing the surgery.
Will I need an escort with me on the day of surgery?
Yes. Patient escorts should remain in the office during the entire time of surgery to ensure that the patient is discharged as soon as possible.
How much will surgery cost?
The cost of surgery can only be determined once your case has been evaluated by Dr. Lee.
How much does insurance cover?
Insurance coverage will vary from company to company and within each company’s plans. We are in-network for several insurance plans, but will gladly file any insurance for you. Payment for all exam and x-ray appointments is due in full at the time of checkout. You will be provided a treatment plan outlining your surgery cost at checkout. A deposit amount will be determined at that time based on insurance coverage and verification.
Who files my insurance?
Our office may file patient insurance as a courtesy. We participate with several insurance companies, but cannot estimate or guarantee what a patient’s insurance will pay. Options are available for patients without insurance as well. Please ask about available payment options.
Why do you need my medical insurance card?
If the procedure for which you are being seen relates to tissues or bones, it will be considered medical in nature and will be filed accordingly with your medical insurance.
If you are being seen for any kind of tooth extraction and have dental insurance, our standard office policy is to keep your medical insurance on file. Even though extraction of teeth is not a covered service by medical insurance, more and more dental insurance companies are requesting a medical denial before they will process a claim. In such cases, having the medical insurance information already on file allows us to more efficiently submit these claims.