What to Look for in an Oral Surgeon

Like any other medical procedure, choosing the right oral surgeon can be a difficult process. Individuals looking for advanced surgical care should ask the following questions when vetting potential oral surgeons for your upcoming treatment.

What is their experience?

When it comes to oral surgery, training and experience are especially important factors to consider. Rather than simply picking out an oral surgeon, look for a dental professional who has extensive experience treating your specific needs. Residency and clinical experience can also be indicative of an oral surgeon’s specialty focus, providing patients with the peace of mind that their experienced professional has experience performing similar procedures.

Is the surgeon a member of any professional associations?

Professional dental societies, associations, and continuing education courses provide critical opportunities for oral surgeons to stay on top of the latest treatment techniques and dental technologies. Some societies, including the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery require members to meet certain thresholds of continuing education hours per year as well as pass intensive certification examinations. With these strict regulations in mind, look for a board certified oral surgeon.

Do they accept referrals?

Not every oral surgeon accepts walk in patients. Many offer their services on a referral basis, working with nearby dentists and other professionals to provide care to patients. As a result, it is worthwhile to check with your general dentist and see whether they have any recommendations.

Do they accept my insurance?

There are a number of factors that determine the cost of care. Between the surgeon’s fees, cost of equipment and anesthesia, as well as pre-treatment diagnostic x-rays or treatments, the expenses of undergoing oral surgery can become expensive very quickly. While dental insurance may cover some of the treatment process, patients may still be responsible for out-of-pocket expenses. Searching for an oral surgeon in network with your insurance plan or one who offers in-office financing options can help alleviate some of the financial stress that comes with planning for oral surgery.

Can the surgeon be reached easily?

Even if the surgery was performed perfectly, accidents and emergencies can still happen during the recovery phase. If your surgeon frequently travels between practices across a large region, it may be more difficult to receive appropriate care when needed. Consider an oral surgeon’s availability before pursuing treatment.

Looking for an Oral Surgeon? Contact our Practice Today

With locations in Springfield and Lorton, our practice offers a wealth of advanced oral surgery options in state-of-the-art settings. To learn more about our treatments, schedule your consultation with our Northern Virginia oral surgeon today. 

When to Visit an Oral Surgeon

There are certain scenarios in which seeking the experience of a specialized dental professional may provide greater long-term results. Some of these scenarios include:

Impacted Tooth Extraction

Unlike simple extraction, in which a damaged tooth is simply removed, the process of extracting an impacted tooth is a more complex process. Depending on the placement and size of the tooth, gum and bone tissue may need to be removed in order to expose the compromised tooth, a procedure oral surgeons are well-trained to perform. Combined with experience, and in-office sedation, patients can remain comfortable and relaxed during treatment.

Jaw Fracture or Damage

In addition to dental school, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are required to undergo additional courses as well as surgical residencies. This extensive training goes beyond what is covered in dental school, allowing oral surgeons to gain an in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy. As a result, oral surgeons are well-equipped to treat jaw damage and trauma. In fact, the American College of Surgeons recommends that an oral and maxillofacial surgeon be present when treating severe and complex facial trauma patients.

Bone Reinforcement Procedures

When completed properly, bone grafting, sinus augmentation, and ridge modification procedures can reinforce the health and function of deteriorating jaw bones, thus, protecting facial structure and improving oral health. Advanced osseous, or bone, surgeries require the unique touch that oral surgeons provide.

Dental Implant Placement

Dental implant success hinges on the strategic placement of implant posts into the jaw bone. The advanced training of oral surgeons provides these dental specialists with the advantage when it comes to successful implant integration and restoration. They know the ins and outs of the jaw, making for a successful dental implant planning and implementation.

Oral Cancer Biopsies

In addition to surgical procedures, patients may also be recommended to an oral surgeon in the event of oral abnormality. This can include instances of benign or malignant tumors of the face or mouth. Beyond conducting tissue biopsies, your oral surgeon may coordinate treatment with an oncologist and your general dentist in the event oral cancer is detected.

Consult our Oral Surgeon Today

At Lorton Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we work closely with general dentists and other healthcare providers throughout Northern Virginia to provide comprehensive oral and maxillofacial surgeries. For more information about our available services, contact your nearest location today.