How do you choose an oral surgeon in your area? What factors make one better than another? Does it even matter?
Actually, it matters very much. The consequences of a poorly-performed surgery can affect you for the rest of your life.
But don’t worry. To choose the right oral surgeon for you, you just need to ask the right questions.
For instance, does this oral surgeon take your insurance? Are they highly rated and close to your home? Do they provide the dental procedure you need?
To make things easier, we’ve compiled all the factors you need to consider in this complete checklist. Read on to learn more.
1. Does This Oral Surgeon Take My Insurance?
The out-of-pocket costs of oral surgeries are astronomical. For example, your TMJ surgery cost without insurance could range from $20,000-$40,000. You must choose an oral surgeon who’s covered by your insurance.
Your insurance company may provide a list of in-network surgeons if you ask them. Without this, you’ll have to ask each oral surgeon individually if they accept your insurance.
2. Is the Oral Surgeon Near Me?
Depending on the surgery you’re getting, you may be in a lot of pain immediately following the procedure. You might also experience nausea, drowsiness, and other side effects from the pain medication the surgeon gives you.
The point is, these issues will be even worse if you have a long drive home after your procedure. Make your post-surgery recovery easier by choosing an oral surgeon who’s close to home.
3. Are They Highly Rated?
Don’t take a shot in the dark. Check online reviews to find a surgeon who comes highly recommended in your area.
4. Do They Provide the Dental Procedure I Need?
Most likely, there are certain procedures that your prospective oral surgeon can’t perform. Specifically, the surgeon might not have the specialized equipment or training required to perform the surgery.
Before you choose an oral surgeon, research the treatment options for your particular problem. Then, ask each oral surgeon if they can perform your desired treatment(s).
5. Is It Easy to Get an Appointment?
When you need an appointment for oral surgery but you can’t get one for 3 months, it’s not just inconvenient. Waiting this long could be extremely painful. If the oral surgeon can’t see you within 3 weeks, choose someone else.
6. What Age Range Do They Serve?
As you’ve surely noticed by now, it takes a lot of research and effort to choose a trustworthy oral surgeon. So, try to find one who treats children as well as adults. That way, you won’t have to go through this checklist all over again if your child needs oral surgery one day.
7. Are They Friendly or Cranky?
Lastly, how do the receptionists treat you? If they seem irritated or unfriendly, don’t expect the surgeon to be any different. Choose a friendlier office to reduce the stress of your visit.
Choose the Best Oral Surgeon Near You With These Tips
Don’t forget these essential tips. Use this guide as a checklist to find the best oral surgeon in your area.
What types of prenatal tests can diagnose birth defects? And what are the treatment options for Parkinson’s disease? Head to our Health blog to learn the answers to these and other health-related questions.