Patient Information

Background Information

Our practice is restricted to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is the speciality of dentistry that includes the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, pathology, trauma, congenital and acquired deformities of the face and jaws as well as diseases of the teeth and gums. 

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons have completed a residency in their speciality in addition to receiving their dental degree.

What We Do

An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is a surgical specialist who performs numerous services such as:

• Removal of teeth
• Administration of in-office anesthesia
• Diagnosis/treatment of oral diseases
• Treatment of traumatic facial injuries 
• Reconstructive/corrective surgery of acquired and developmental malformations of the jaws and face
• Placement of facial and dental implants
• Diagnosis/treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)
• Cosmetic facial surgery
• Laser techniques for cosmetic procedures
• Biopsy procedures

The philosophy of our practice is dedicated to giving total patient care with the highest possible degree of professionalism to residents in the tri-state area that we serve. We compliment this service with the use of the most modern facilities, equipment and techniques available in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

A general evaluation of the dental and physical condition in addition to the specific problem to be treated. This general evaluation is conducted as a preventive measure to alleviate and prevent future dental problems.

A full explanation regarding the recommended treatment, risks and possible complications involved with this treatment and alternative means of treatment.

Every accommodation possible to ensure comfort and safety, with the least amount of discomfort possible, during treatment and surgery.

A continuity of care – delivered with personal attention by our doctors who are supported by a staff of skilled nurses, assistants and office personnel.

Scheduling

Regular office hours are scheduled by appointment, Monday – Friday; in additional to office hours, a surgeon is on call for emergencies, 24-hours a day/seven days a week.

Presently, three Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons practice in our group. You may schedule an appointment with the doctor of your choice. If you do not have a preference, we will assign you to the doctor having the first available opening. That doctor will see you for each appointment unless he cannot be in the office when you need to schedule a visit.

Occasionally, an emergency situation may occur that necessitates rescheduling your appointment, and we will call you as soon as possible to let you know of such a situation. We will contact you either by using the telephone number you provided on your patient information form (an alternate information number is also advisable) or by mail if time permits. If you find it necessary to change your appointment, we appreciate twenty-four hours notice.

Hospital Surgery

Certain surgical procedures require hospitalization as either an in-patient or as an outpatient (one day) admission. If your surgery entails hospital admission, our staff will make those arrangements at the time of your office consultation. Again, a call to your insurance companies (both dental and medical) will help us in preauthorizing or pre-certifying your hospital stay.

X-Ray

If your dentist or physician has taken x-rays, you may request that they forward them to our office. If there is not enough time, please pick them up and bring them to our office. If additional films are necessary, they can be taken at our facility.

Financial Info

             Our policy on surgical fees and payment is quite simple. As surgical specialists we deliver the finest care we are capable of, at the most reasonable cost possible. Payment for all treatment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made in advance. Before your initial treatment, we suggest that you check with your insurance carrier to determine the type of coverage you have and the policies of your insurance company. Acquiring this information before your initial appointment enables you to know exactly how much your insurance may help pay for our services and helps avoid future misunderstandings. For your convenience we accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.

In most cases, insurance does not cover the full cost of surgical care. Insurance coverage is designed to reduce your cost, not eliminate it. Our efficient staff will assist you in a claim so that you receive the maximum benefits available under your policy; however, please remember that you are fully responsible for all fees charged by this office regardless of your insurance coverage. Please bring insurance cards and claim forms with you at the time of your appointment.

If you have any billing questions regarding your account, please call the office that handled your treatment. Many times a simple telephone call averts any miscommunication.

Anesthesia

Different procedures necessitate different types of anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss with you which type of anesthesia is best for you. All offices and doctors are licensed to provide a full range of anesthesia services.

• Local Anesthesia: The injection of a medication, in the mouth, to numb the area of treatment.
• Nitrous Oxide Analgesia/Laughing Gas: Mild relaxation with the inhalation of gas, normally used in combination with local anesthesia.
• General Anesthesia/Conscious Sedation: The intravenous or intra-muscular injection of medication to establish various stages of sleep normally accompanied with local anesthesia.

Pre-operative instructions

Local Anesthesia and Nitrous Oxide Analgesia

• Eat lightly the day of surgery
• Cleanse mouth and teeth immediately before your appointment

General Anesthesia/Conscious Sedation

• Evening prior to surgery – eat a light, easily digestible evening meal; consume no alcoholic beverages; consume a glass of water at 11:00pm (prior to bedtime) AND ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO EAT OR DRINK AFTERWARDS; retire early
• Morning surgery – eat or drink nothing (not even water) after midnight
• Afternoon surgery – may drink a clear liquid breakfast before 7:00 a.m. (such as water, tea, coffee, juice, or broth); after 7:00 a.m. nothing (not even water) until your surgery

For your safety, disregard of the above instructions may necessitate cancellation and rescheduling of your surgery.

• Cleanse mouth and teeth immediately before your appointment. (Remember, do not drink any water)
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and no jewelry. Avoid heavy make-up and lipstick. Remove nail polish from at least two fingernails.

Arrange to have a responsible person to drive you home after surgery. Your surgery begins only if your driver is present and sitting in our office waiting room. Under no circumstances should you attempt to drive a car or operate dangerous machinery the day of surgery.