A dental procedure can feel overwhelming, especially when surgery is involved. Our oral surgery services are built around clear communication and steady support, from your first phone call through your last follow-up. We answer your questions honestly and walk through each step so nothing catches you off guard.
What to Expect During Your Evaluation
Every visit starts with a thorough look at your situation. Dr. Diego Hurtado or Dr. Sean Healy will go over your medical history and current symptoms before recommending anything. This conversation matters because it shapes a plan that fits your specific needs, not a generic checklist.
During this appointment, we cover:
- Your health history and any medications you take
- Imaging to map out the surgical approach
- A written plan with clear next steps and timing
You’ll leave knowing what happens next and who to call if something changes along the way.
Procedures We Provide
Our oral surgery offerings cover a wide range of needs for adults and teens. Some of the more common reasons patients come to us include:
- Tooth extractions, including impacted wisdom teeth
- Dental implant placement and bone grafting
- Biopsies and evaluation of oral pathologies
For patients dealing with facial injuries, our facial trauma care addresses fractures and soft tissue damage with attention to both function and appearance. We also handle more complex maxillofacial cases that require coordination between oral health and the surrounding facial structures.
Getting Ready for Your Oral Surgery Services Appointment
Preparation makes a real difference in how smoothly your procedure goes. A few steps go a long way:
- Bring a list of your current medications and any allergies.
- Arrange a ride home if sedation is part of your plan.
- Wear comfortable clothing and skip the jewelry.
We’ll confirm your arrival time and any fasting instructions ahead of your visit, and we keep the paperwork simple so you can focus on getting through the procedure and back to recovering at home.
Recovery and Aftercare
Healing looks different for everyone, but most patients notice steady improvement day by day. After your procedure, you’ll receive written instructions tailored to what was done, along with guidance such as:
- Applying ice for the first 24 hours to manage swelling
- Sticking to soft foods and avoiding vigorous rinsing at first
- Taking any prescribed medication exactly as directed
If you notice severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fever, call our office right away. We check in after surgery to see how you’re doing and address concerns before they become bigger problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need oral surgery?
Persistent pain, an impacted tooth, or an unusual lesion are common signs. We review your symptoms and history together to determine the right course of action.
Will insurance cover my procedure?
Coverage depends on your specific plan. Call our front desk with your plan details, and we can run a benefits check and give you a treatment estimate before you commit to anything.
Is sedation safe?
We follow careful protocols and monitor patients closely throughout any procedure, adjusting our approach based on your health history and the specific surgery involved.
How long does recovery take after an implant?
Most people are back to normal daily activity within a few days, though full bone healing takes several months. We schedule follow-up visits to track your progress and adjust care as needed.
Who performs the procedure?
Dr. Diego Hurtado or Dr. Sean Healy will perform or directly oversee your surgery. You can read more about Dr. Hurtado’s background or Dr. Healy’s approach to care before your visit if you’d like to know more about who’s treating you.
Have Questions Before You Book?
Every patient comes in with different concerns, and we’d rather answer them now than have you wonder after you’ve scheduled. Reach out through our contact page with any questions about your procedure, or find us on the map to plan your visit to our Santa Fe office. We’re glad to talk through what to expect before you ever sit in the chair.
