Frequently Asked Dentistry Questions

Dentistry can be complicated enough, but oral and maxillofacial surgery can cause even more confusion. Most people who visit the dentist aren’t familiar with the types of treatments oral surgeons provide, nor are they aware of the steps needed to ensure a safe and relaxing recovery. That’s why North Metro Oral & Implant Surgery has included a brief FAQ to help new patients stay informed. If your question isn’t listed, feel free to give us a call!

Do I need a referral from a dentist to schedule an appointment?

In most cases, a referral from a dentist or a physician is required. However, exceptions can be made. Please call North Metro Oral & Implant Surgery to discuss your specific issue and our dental office policies.

Will I need to have X-rays taken?

In order to diagnose and treat any problems involving the teeth or jaw, X-rays are necessary. If your dentist does not have current X-rays to forward to us with your referral, we can take X-rays here in our dental office.

After surgery, will I need someone to drive me home?

If you received sedation, you will need someone to drive you home. Patients who receive local anesthesia can drive home themselves.

Can I eat something before my surgery?

If you are going to be sedated for the oral surgery procedure, you should not eat or drink anything at least six hours before your surgery. If you are going to have local anesthesia for your procedure, you may eat normally prior to your appointment.

Are the instruments you use sterile?

Yes. After each use, we thoroughly clean and sterilize each instrument. North Metro Oral & Implant Surgery also has a surveillance program to assure that all of our equipment and instruments are cleaned and sterilized for the next patient.

If my child is having surgery, am I allowed to stay with him or her during the procedure?

If your child is very young, we do allow parents to be with their child before the surgery in order to ask the doctor any questions. However, we do not allow non-patients or non-staff members in the surgical area.

If I have insurance, do I have to make a payment the day of surgery?

If your medical or dental insurance covers surgery, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Insurance policies vary and they usually do not cover 100% of the fees for surgeries. Once treatment has started, we will file your claims for you. You will be expected to pay your deductible or co-payment on the day of surgery. Please remember that insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for all charges.

Do you accept payment plans?

Depending on the treatment, we can negotiate payment plans with our dental office.

Am I able to sleep through the procedure?

Yes. Dr. John W. Carey is licensed by the state to provide a variety of anesthetic techniques.

What are my preoperative instructions for IV sedation?

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery
Have someone come with you to drive you home. This person will also need to stay in the dental office during surgery
Wear loose fitting/comfortable clothing
Do not wear contact lenses
Do not wear fingernail polish the day of surgery, especially red and black
Do not wear make-up the day of surgery
Stock up on foods such as soup, Jell-O, pudding, ice cream, yogurt, etc.
Get plenty of rest the night before surgery
If you smoke, please do not smoke 36 hours prior to surgery or just quit
Take your normal morning medications with a sip of water unless otherwise directed by the doctor. If you take blood pressure medication, please do not forget it on the day of surgery
If you have asthma, please bring your inhaler