Your questions, answered
We can provide patients with safe and efficient surgical solutions.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I have to have a consultation?
Having a consultation before your oral surgery procedure is an essential step in ensuring the best possible outcome for your oral health. During this initial appointment, our experienced oral surgeon will take the time to evaluate your specific needs, discuss your treatment options, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
The consultation allows us to gather important information about your dental and medical history, assess the condition of your oral health, and determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your unique circumstances. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for you to learn more about the procedure, understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery, and make informed decisions about your oral health care.
Ultimately, our goal is to ensure your comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout the entire surgical process. By conducting a thorough consultation, we can customize your treatment plan to meet your individual needs and provide you with the highest standard of care.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule your consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your journey to optimal oral health.
Why do I have to have a consultation?
Having a consultation before your oral surgery procedure is an essential step in ensuring the best possible outcome for your oral health. During this initial appointment, our experienced oral surgeon will take the time to evaluate your specific needs, discuss your treatment options, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
The consultation allows us to gather important information about your dental and medical history, assess the condition of your oral health, and determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your unique circumstances. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for you to learn more about the procedure, understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery, and make informed decisions about your oral health care.
Ultimately, our goal is to ensure your comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout the entire surgical process. By conducting a thorough consultation, we can customize your treatment plan to meet your individual needs and provide you with the highest standard of care.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule your consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your journey to optimal oral health.
Will I still get LA if getting TCI/IV sedation?
Absolutely! Your comfort and safety are our top priorities during any oral surgery procedure. While TCI (Target Controlled Infusion) sedation provides a tailored and controlled level of relaxation, it’s important to note that local anesthesia (LA) is still administered to ensure that the surgical area is completely numb and free of discomfort.
Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the specific site where the oral surgery will take place. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure, even while you’re under sedation. By combining TCI sedation with local anesthesia, we aim to provide you with a comfortable and stress-free experience throughout your treatment.
During your consultation, our team will thoroughly explain the sedation and anesthesia options available to you, address any concerns you may have, and ensure that you feel fully informed and confident about your upcoming procedure.
If you have any additional questions or would like to learn more about our sedation and anesthesia protocols, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you and provide you with the highest level of care during your oral surgery journey.
Can I have sedation if pregnant / breastfeeding?
Your safety and well-being, as well as that of your baby, are of utmost importance to us. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s crucial to discuss your specific circumstances with our team and your healthcare provider before undergoing any oral surgery procedure involving sedation.
While TCI (Target Controlled Infusion) sedation is generally considered safe for many patients, including pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, we do not consider this safe for non emergency procedures in a private practice setting.
Breastfeeding
We understand that breastfeeding mothers may have concerns about undergoing sedation during oral surgery. It’s important to discuss your specific situation with our team and your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
In many cases, certain types of sedation, such as local anesthesia or conscious sedation, may be considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. However, individual factors such as the type of sedation used, the duration of the procedure, and the age of the infant can influence the decision.
During your consultation, our experienced oral surgeon will carefully assess your medical history and discuss any potential risks or concerns associated with sedation while breastfeeding. We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your comfort and safety while minimizing any potential risks to your baby.
Medicines and Breastfeeding
Most medicines used during sedation or general anesthesia are compatible with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should only be interrupted until you are awake enough to safely hold your baby after the procedure.
Premature babies, newborns (0-30 days old), and children with a history of apnoeas are at higher risk. If your baby falls into any of these categories, please discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Specific drugs of concern include:
Codeine, as its effects in breast milk vary between individuals.
Gabapentin and ketamine, which are typically used under the advice of the specialist Acute Pain Service.
How long before i can fly after oral surgery?
After oral surgery, such as wisdom teeth removal or other procedures, the timeline for when it’s safe to fly can vary based on the complexity of the surgery, the type of anesthesia used, and your individual healing process. Here’s a friendly and professional response to the FAQ “How long before I can fly after my oral surgery?”
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities following oral surgery. While the recovery time before flying can vary depending on the nature of your procedure, we generally recommend waiting at least 24 to 48 hours before considering air travel.
Flying too soon after oral surgery, especially if it involved sedation or anesthesia, can potentially increase the risk of complications such as bleeding, discomfort, or changes in pressure that may affect your healing process.
We encourage you to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon closely and to listen to your body’s cues. If you experience any unexpected pain, swelling, or discomfort during your recovery period, it’s important to contact your oral surgeon promptly for guidance.
During your follow-up appointment, your oral surgeon can assess your healing progress and provide personalized recommendations regarding when it’s safe for you to resume normal activities, including air travel.
Can I have an immediate implant?
Immediate implants are a viable option for many patients, but it ultimately depends on various factors such as your overall oral health, bone density, and the condition of the tooth being replaced.
An immediate implant refers to the placement of a dental implant directly into the socket of a recently extracted tooth, typically during the same appointment as the extraction. This approach can streamline the treatment process and reduce the overall treatment timeline.
However, not all cases are suitable for immediate implants. Your oral surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation during your initial consultation to determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure. Factors such as the presence of infection, bone quality, and the need for additional procedures like bone grafting may influence the decision.
If an immediate implant is deemed appropriate for your situation, our team will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and address any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
Can I take my blood pressure pills at the usual time? Or take them early before TCI sedation?
Ensuring your safety and well-being during TCI sedation is our top priority. If you’re taking blood pressure medication, it’s important to adhere to your regular dosage schedule unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
A safe rule of thumb is to take your regular medication with a small amount of water no sooner than 2 hours before the procedure. The main exceptions being the use of antibiotics before any dental surgery in which case they can be taken 1 hour beforehand
In most cases, you should continue taking your blood pressure medication at the usual time leading up to your TCI sedation procedure. However, if your healthcare provider has provided specific instructions to adjust your medication schedule before the procedure, please follow their guidance closely.
During your pre-operative consultation, be sure to inform our team about any medications you’re currently taking, including blood pressure pills. This allows us to coordinate your care effectively and ensure a smooth and successful sedation experience.
If you have any concerns or questions about your medication regimen in relation to your TCI sedation procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us or consult with your healthcare provider. We’re here to support you and ensure that you feel informed and confident about your upcoming oral surgery.
What kind of foods can I eat after surgery?
Following oral surgery, it’s essential to choose soft, easy-to-eat foods that won’t irritate the surgical site or require much chewing. Here are some gentle options to consider during your recovery:
REMEMBER: The purpose of these foods are to swallow quickly and easily so time spent in the mouth is minimal. Avoiding dry socket is greatly aided by not getting food in the sockets. Any chewing will increase the risk of loss of the stitches which will open the socket further
Smoothies and shakes: Blended fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and protein powder can provide essential nutrients without requiring much effort to consume.
Soups and broths: Opt for clear or strained soups, such as chicken broth or vegetable soup, which are easy to swallow and soothing to the mouth.
Yogurt and pudding: These creamy options are gentle on the mouth and provide protein and nutrients to support healing.
Mashed potatoes: Soft, mashed potatoes are a comforting and filling choice that requires minimal chewing.
Oatmeal and porridge: Cooked oatmeal or porridge can be easily customized with toppings like honey, fruit puree, or soft nuts for added flavor and nutrition.
Applesauce and mashed fruits: Pureed or mashed fruits like applesauce, bananas, and ripe avocados are gentle on the mouth and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Eggs: Scrambled or soft-boiled eggs are a good source of protein and can be prepared to your preferred consistency.
Soft pasta: Cooked pasta, such as macaroni or spaghetti, with a smooth sauce is easy to eat and can be customized with vegetables or cheese for added flavor.
Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic, as these may irritate the surgical site and prolong healing. It’s also important to avoid using straws, as the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots and increase the risk of complications.
As you progress through your recovery, gradually reintroduce solid foods based on your comfort level and the recommendations of your oral surgeon. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
If you have any specific dietary concerns or restrictions, please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. We’re here to support you during your recovery journey and ensure a smooth and comfortable healing process.
What is a Post op warm water salt rinse ?
Not to be any more than luke warm/tepid for first 24 hours to avoid encouraging bleeding
Mix a level teaspoon of salt into a cup of boiled, hot (but not scalding) water. Hold the salt water in the mouth for one minute and gently swish the solution around and then spit out. Repeat mouthwashes 3-4 times a day and after you have eaten to make sure your mouth remains clean
Who will be in the room?
During the procedure, there will be the surgeon, the assistant, and the sedation nurse in the room. Since the sedation nurse needs to move around the patient frequently, we do not allow family or friends to stay in the room for safety reasons. However, if the patient is very anxious, we will permit a support person to be with them during the sedation process. Please note that we will ask the support person to leave once the drug infusion has started for safety purposes.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
How much does it cost?
Cost depend on many factors, length of appointment, xrays and choice of anaesthesia. As a rule of thumb they can range from 1-4 Thousand for office based procedures and its advisable to budget on average an additional 3-5 Thousand if you want General Anaesthetic
Does it hurt?
We will do our utmost to ensure a calm pain free experience but you will be aware of the injections that are necessary to numb and sedate you. If you are having sedation, one of the medications is also a very strong pain management agent and the numbing injections will be even less noticeable.
Does it hurt?
We will do our utmost to ensure a calm pain free experience but you will be aware of the injections that are necessary to numb and sedate you. If you are having sedation, one of the medications is also a very strong pain management agent and the numbing injections will be even less noticeable.
How long does it take?
It depends on the procedure, allow about an hour 30 – 40 minutes for procedures done under local anaesthetic, and about 60-90 minutes for procedures done with IV sedation, this is to allow for recovery time as well. If you have IV sedation, you will need someone to take you home and stay with you for the rest of the day.
Will I be awake?
Unless you’re having a general anaesthetic you will be awake. For patient’s having IV sedation, the medication we use sometimes makes people feel so relaxed that they get a bit snoozy but they will still respond to commands and talk to us. Often our sedation medication helps people to forget their procedure, so you might feel like you were asleep but you were just really relaxed.
How long until I can eat normally again?
This is a little bit variable, and depends on each patient, and the procedure they have had done, but for wisdom teeth surgery we recommend following a liquid/soft food diet for the first 5 – 7 days in order to allow your mouth to heal well.
How much time do I need to take off school or work?
For patients having a surgical extraction of a single tooth under local anaesthetic, you should be ok to return to work 1 to 2 days after the procedure.
For people having bigger procedures like wisdom teeth removal, or full clearances with IV sedation, you may need to take 4 to 5 days off work, depending on the nature of your job.
Do you do WINZ quotes?
Yes – get in touch to arrange a WINZ quote.
Do you do ACC?
Yes – However, sometimes not all the costs are covered by ACC. You may still need to pay some portion of the costs associated with your treatment.
Can I use my health insurance?
In some cases yes, this depends on your insurance provider and the type of policy you have. Contact us to assist you with your health insurance needs.
I feel scared, what can I do?
It is normal to feel a little apprehensive about your appointment and procedure. Come meet David and see if you feel more reassured. We advise you book a standard appointment rather than a short one and consider TCI sedation or General Anaesthetic.
Please let us know in advance if you have had a really bad experience and are dental phobic. Please do not take any sedatives before you come as this will affect your ability to consent.
We have seen lots of people who have been really nervous and who have been convinced they wouldn’t be able to cope, only to find that in some cases the procedure was over and they thought we hadn’t started yet.