Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to the questions our oral surgeons hear most often — about wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, sedation, insurance, and what to expect at your first visit to Bay Oral Surgery & Implant Center.
When should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth surgery is necessary when these teeth do not have room to properly erupt within the mouth. This typically occurs between the ages of 17 & 25. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum, and even remain impacted and trapped beneath the gum and bone. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the teeth allows bacteria to grow and eventually causes an infection. The pressure from the erupting wisdom teeth may also move other teeth and disrupt their natural alignment. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in damage to the jawbone and healthy teeth.
With an oral examination and x-rays, Bay Oral Surgery & Implant Center can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and catch potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment can prevent complications and decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.
Do I need sedation or anesthesia?
In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under local anesthesia or deep sedation. These options, as well as the surgical risks, will be discussed with you before the procedure is performed. Once your wisdom teeth have been removed, you will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, additional instructions for care at home will be given. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at (920) 499-0471.
What’s the cost of wisdom tooth extraction?
Wisdom tooth extraction costs vary depending on the number of teeth and their state of eruption. Given that every case is different, it’s difficult to quote a price without consulting one of Bay Oral Surgery’s expert oral surgeons first.
How is recovery after wisdom tooth surgery?
Pain, swelling and some bleeding is normal after wisdom teeth removal. Take it easy for a couple of days, avoid brushing near the healing area and eat what is comfortable, but softer foods are typically easier for the first few days. For more information, download BOS Home Care instructions. Keep in mind we are in the clinic Monday through Friday, along with an on-call doctor after hours to answer any questions.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Teeth implants help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. When you choose teeth implants, you regain the ability to eat your favorite foods, and smile with confidence knowing that your teeth appear natural and healthy.
I'm missing a tooth. What are my options?
When you are considering your options for replacement teeth, you should consult both your family dentist and the experts at Bay Oral Surgery about the best choice for your situation and health.
- Teeth implants are placed in the patient’s jaw bone and offer maximum stability through a titanium post. They also provide a long-term solution to missing teeth. Implants aid in the replacement of missing teeth without the need to involve other natural teeth.
- A bridge is three or more “teeth” connected together and attached to the natural teeth on either side of the space of the missing tooth. In order to attach the bridge, your dentist will need to grind down the teeth on both sides of the space. The bridge is cemented into place and is not removable.
- A partial is a retainer-type appliance with a “tooth” or “teeth” on it which you can easily take in and out on your own. This can be used to replace one or more missing teeth.
- Do nothing and just leave the space. Over time, this could possibly lead to bone loss in the area of the missing tooth, shifting or drifting of the teeth behind the space, and/or super eruption of the tooth opposite of the missing tooth.
How much do dental implants cost and am I a candidate?
Given that every case is different, we feel the best way to determine if you are a candidate is for us to see you for a consultation. During the consultation, you will meet with one of our oral surgeons who will discuss the implant process and create a treatment plan based on your dentist’s recommendations and specifically for your situation. Many factors can affect each treatment plan and overall dental implants cost. Things such as extractions, bone grafting and sedation may not be needed in every case but can add additional cost to some treatment plans. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation at (920) 499-0471.
What's the procedure and recovery process like?
As with any treatment, recovery can vary from patient to patient but this too would be addressed at the time of the consultation. Much of the recovery depends on the procedure(s) you’ve had done, whether or not you were sedated for the procedure(s), and your overall health. Most people, however, are back to their regular routine within a day or two of having a single implant placed. You may have some dietary restrictions depending on where your implant was placed.
Do I need a referral to see an oral surgeon?
Many of our patients are referred by their general dentist, but a referral is not required. You can contact any of our offices directly to schedule a consultation. If you do have a surgical referral slip and x-rays, please bring them to your first visit.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Please bring your surgical referral slip and any x-rays (if applicable), a list of medications you are currently taking, and your medical or dental insurance cards. If you elect deep sedation for surgery, have nothing to eat or drink for six hours before your appointment and arrange for an adult to drive you home.
What payment options and insurance do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express, and monthly payment plans can be arranged prior to your procedure. We also work hand-in-hand with you to maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures — our billing department at (920) 499-0471 is happy to answer questions.
Where is Bay Oral Surgery & Implant Center located?
We have three convenient locations in Northeast Wisconsin: Green Bay East, Green Bay West, and Marinette. Our oral surgeons see patients from across the greater Green Bay area and the surrounding communities.
Have a question that isn’t answered here? Contact any of our Green Bay or Marinette offices, or schedule a consultation with one of our oral surgeons.