If you’re considering oral surgery, you probably have a lot of questions. What is the recovery time? How long will the procedure take? Will I be in pain? What are the risks and side effects? Is the surgery really necessary? 

These are just some of the most frequently asked questions about oral surgery. In this blog post, we will answer all of your questions and help you make an informed decision about whether or not to undergo surgery.

10 Questions to Ask Your Oral Surgeon

1. What is the recovery time?

The recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery you’re having. Simple tooth extractions and other minor procedures may take a few days to heal, while more complicated surgeries, such as wisdom teeth extraction or dental crowns, can take up to several weeks.

2. How long will the procedure take?

The length of time will depend on the procedure performed. A simple tooth extraction usually takes about 30 minutes, while wisdom teeth extractions can take up to two hours. Dental crowns require more time and may take several visits over a few weeks.

3. Will you use local anesthesia, or are there other options?

Your oral surgeon will discuss your anesthesia options with you before the procedure. Local anesthesia is often used for simple procedures such as tooth extractions, while more complex surgeries may require general or IV sedation. At AZ Max, we offer oral sedation, nitrous oxide, IV conscious sedation, and general anesthesia.

4. What are the possible side effects and risks?

The risks and side effects of oral surgery vary depending on the procedure being done. Common side effects include swelling, pain, bleeding, and infection. Your oral surgeon will discuss all potential risks with you before your surgery and give you pre and post-operative instructions to read before your surgery. It is important that you read and follow these instructions to ensure a speedy and successful recovery.

5. Is the surgery really necessary?

In many cases, yes. Oral surgeries are often necessary for restoring dental health and correcting jaw problems. Your oral surgeon will provide more information about why surgery may be necessary.

6. What will happen if I don’t have the surgery?

The consequences of not having oral surgery can vary depending on the condition being treated. If left untreated, some dental issues may worsen or cause more serious health problems down the road. For example, if a damaged tooth is not extracted, it may lead to an infection or abscess. If wisdom teeth are not removed, they can crowd or damage other teeth in the mouth.

7. How much will it hurt during and after?

Anesthesia and other pain-relieving medications are used to ensure that you feel minimal discomfort during surgery. After the procedure, you may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with medications prescribed by your oral surgeon.

8. If my insurance doesn’t cover the procedure, do you have payment options?

At AZ Max Oral Surgery, we offer several financing options, including Lending Club and Care Credit. 

9. How can I prepare for my surgery?

Generally speaking, it is important to follow a healthy diet before and after the surgery, avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, and get plenty of rest. Our surgeons at AZ Max will provide you with pre-operative instructions to ensure you are prepared for your surgery.

10. How can I speed up healing after oral surgery?

Healing time varies depending on each individual, but there are several steps you can take to help the process along. These include following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, taking any prescribed medications as directed, avoiding strenuous activities, and eating a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods to help the body recover.

Experience the AZ Max Difference

Oral surgery can be daunting, but with the right preparation and care, it is often a successful procedure that improves your dental health. If you’re considering oral surgery, we hope these frequently asked questions have helped guide you to make an informed decision. Our team at AZ Oral surgery is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us today! We’re here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

To schedule an appointment at any of our 5 locations, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form. We look forward to hearing from you soon!