Oral surgery isn’t something most of us need on a regular basis. Just the prospect of oral surgery can be scary, and searching for the right surgeon for your procedure can be overwhelming, to say the least. Thankfully most oral surgeons are aware of their patients’ fears and offer a pre-surgery consultation beforehand to ease their patients’ fears, help them understand what will take place and ensure they are the right fit. Here are 4 questions you need to ask before picking your oral surgeon.
1. Why do I need this surgery?
This is one of the most important questions to ask when picking your oral surgeon. For your sake, you want to know and understand the reason behind the surgery, and what to expect should you not have the procedure. Another reason to inquire about the necessity of your surgery is to find out if your surgeon can communicate in a way that helps you gain a deeper understanding. Do they brush off your concerns or do they explain, in layman’s terms, why the surgery is necessary?
2. What are the details of the surgery?
You want to know what will take place during your procedure. When you’re picking an oral surgeon, ask them for the details. Let them explain what will take place at each point of the surgical process; from anesthesia to recovery and what to expect once you go home. This is a very important question as it gives you, and your family member or friend, a detailed timeline of your surgery.
3. How long does the procedure typically take?
This is an important question for many reasons. Not every patient responds the same to the anesthesia or the recovery, and unexpected problems can arise. However, based on prior experience (and you want them to have plenty) your oral surgeon should be able to provide a good estimate of how long your procedure will take. Regardless of their time estimate, make sure you have your day free should the surgery run long or recovery take more time than anticipated.
4. What is recovery like?
Your oral surgeon should be able to provide a general idea of what your recovery will entail once you get home. They will tell you, for example, how long it may take before you can resume normal activity, when you can eat a normal diet and any follow-up information.
5. What are the specific risks of the surgery?
Every surgery has its risks. Anytime anesthesia is involved, there are risks, and when you’re picking your oral surgeon, make sure they go over the risks with you. Yes, some of the ricks are scary, but an experienced oral surgeon can allay your fears. And isn’t it better to know what could lie ahead instead of letting your imagination run wild?
Consultation is Important When Picking an Oral Surgeon
Communication is essential when picking an oral surgeon, and knowledge is the key to making sure you’re ready and as calm as you can be for your upcoming oral surgery. Dr. Richard Miller welcomes your questions and your desire to understand what you can expect before, during and after your procedure. For the right oral surgeon, contact COOMSA for a consultation today.
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