Questions to Ask Your Oral Surgeon Before Getting Oral Surgery

Posted on 12/1/2025 by Premier Dental Center

Thinking about oral surgery can be a little nerve-wracking. It’s important to be prepared and feel confident in your decision. One of the best ways to ease your mind is to ask questions! A good oral surgeon will welcome your inquiries and provide clear, understandable answers. Here are some important questions to consider before undergoing any oral surgery procedure.

# Understanding the Procedure

Before anything else, make sure you fully understand what the surgery involves. Don’t be afraid to ask for a detailed explanation.

•	What exactly will you be doing? Ask the surgeon to describe the steps of the procedure. Visual aids, like diagrams or models, can be helpful.
•	Why is this surgery necessary? Understanding the reason behind the surgery will help you appreciate its importance and benefits. How does it relate to my overall oral care? What is the long-term impact of not having the surgery?
•	Are there alternative treatments? Explore all your options. Sometimes, there are non-surgical approaches that might work. Discuss the pros and cons of each option with your surgeon. How does oral surgery compare with the non-surgical options?
•	What are the potential risks and complications? Every surgery has risks. It's crucial to know what they are and how likely they are to occur.

# Surgeon's Experience and Qualifications

You want to make sure you're in good hands.

•	What is your experience with this particular procedure? Ask how many times the surgeon has performed this specific type of oral surgery.
•	Are you board certified? Board certification indicates that the surgeon has met rigorous standards of education, training, and expertise.
•	What is your success rate with this procedure? While no surgery is guaranteed, knowing the surgeon's success rate can provide reassurance.

# Anesthesia and Pain Management

Managing pain and anxiety is a critical part of the surgical process.

•	What type of anesthesia will be used? Options range from local anesthesia (numbing a specific area) to general anesthesia (putting you to sleep). Discuss the risks and benefits of each.
•	What pain medication will I need after surgery? Be sure you understand what medications will be prescribed and how to take them. Ask about potential side effects.
•	What should I do if the pain is not controlled by the medication? Have a plan in place for managing pain that might be more severe than expected.

# Recovery and Aftercare

Knowing what to expect after surgery is essential for a smooth recovery.

•	What is the expected recovery time? Understand how long it will take to heal and when you can return to normal activities.
•	What are the post-operative instructions? Follow these instructions carefully to prevent complications. This includes information on diet, oral hygiene, and activity restrictions.
•	Are there any restrictions on what I can eat or drink? Usually, a soft food diet is recommended after oral surgery.
•	What are the signs of infection or complications? Knowing what to look for will allow you to seek prompt medical attention if needed. What should I do if I experience one of these signs?
•	When will I have a follow-up appointment? Regular check-ups are important to monitor your healing and address any concerns. How does this oral surgery fit into my overall plan for restoration dentistry?

Asking these questions before your oral surgery will empower you to make informed decisions and feel more comfortable with the process. Open communication with your oral surgeon is key to a successful outcome and maintaining excellent oral care.

Bells
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(731) 663-9999

7019 US-412
Bells, TN 38006

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Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

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Office

(731) 300-3000

80 Exeter Rd
Jackson, TN 38305

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Milan
Office

(731) 613-2800

15199R S. 1st St.
Milan, TN 38358

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Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

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(731) 617-9818

689 W Church St, Lexington, TN 38351

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: Closed
Sat & Sun: Closed

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