to delayed treatment and unnecessary anxiety. Whether it’s fear about pain levels, concerns about recovery time, or worries about sedation safety, these myths can prevent patients from making informed decisions about their oral health.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, our experienced surgeons understand these concerns and work to provide patients with accurate information about oral surgery procedures. With locations in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, we combine advanced training, modern techniques, and a commitment to patient comfort to deliver exceptional care. As your hometown oral surgeons who have remained independent while competitors went corporate, we prioritize quality over volume and focus on building lasting relationships with both patients and referring dentists.
Myths About Oral Surgery and the Truth About Dental Procedures
Understanding what’s true and what’s not about oral surgery can help you approach necessary procedures with confidence rather than fear. Let’s examine some of the most common misconceptions and reveal the reality behind modern oral surgery.
Oral Surgery Is Always Extremely Painful
Many patients delay necessary procedures because they believe oral surgery will be unbearably painful. Modern oral surgery has evolved significantly, with advanced anesthesia options and pain management techniques that ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. During surgery, patients receive appropriate anesthesia tailored to their needs and the complexity of the procedure, whether local, conscious sedation, or general anesthesia in a hospital setting.
Post-operative discomfort is typically manageable with prescribed medications and proper aftercare instructions. Most patients report their actual experience was far less painful than they anticipated, especially when procedures like wisdom teeth removal are performed by experienced oral surgeons.
Recovery From Oral Surgery Takes Weeks or Months
Another common misconception is that oral surgery requires extended recovery periods that interfere with work, school, and daily activities. The truth is that recovery timelines vary based on the specific procedure and individual healing factors, but many patients return to normal activities within just a few days.
Simple extractions often require minimal downtime, while more complex procedures, such as dental implant placement or corrective jaw surgery, may require additional recovery time. Following post-operative care instructions carefully, including rest, proper nutrition, and prescribed medications, helps optimize the healing process and minimize complications.
Sedation and Anesthesia During Oral Surgery Aren’t Safe
Concerns about sedation safety are common, but when administered by trained professionals in properly equipped facilities, anesthesia for oral surgery is very safe. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive extensive training in anesthesia administration and patient monitoring, going beyond what general dentists learn during dental school.
According to research published in BMJ Open Quality, patient safety protocols in dental surgical settings have evolved significantly, with comprehensive monitoring systems and safety frameworks that minimize risks during procedures. At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, our surgical staff is CPR certified, and we maintain operating privileges at several local hospitals, including Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, for patients with special medical or anesthetic needs.
Oral Surgery Complications Are Common and Serious
While any surgical procedure carries some inherent risk, serious complications from oral surgery are uncommon when performed by experienced surgeons using modern diagnostic tools and evidence-based protocols. Complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, or nerve damage can occur, but trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons take extensive precautions to minimize these risks.
Pre-operative planning includes comprehensive patient assessment, advanced imaging when necessary, and careful consideration of your unique medical history and risk factors. The key to optimal outcomes lies in choosing an experienced surgical team and following all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully.
Any Dentist Can Perform Oral Surgery Just as Well as a Specialist
While general dentists can perform some minor oral surgical procedures, such as simple extractions, oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete years of additional specialized training beyond dental school. This advanced education focuses specifically on complex surgical procedures, facial anatomy, anesthesia management, and handling surgical complications. Specialized training also prepares oral surgeons to recognize and manage potential complications before they become serious problems, ensuring safer outcomes for patients requiring complex procedures.
Experience the Goodove Oral Surgery Difference
Understanding the facts about oral surgery helps you make informed decisions about your dental health without letting myths and misconceptions create unnecessary barriers to treatment. At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we believe in building strong relationships with our patients and referring dentists through clear communication, personalized care, and exceptional outcomes. Our experienced doctors combine advanced training with compassionate patient care to deliver results that exceed expectations.
Whether you need wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or treatment for oral pathology, our team is ready to provide the expert care you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and discover why patients throughout Virginia Beach and Chesapeake trust us with their oral surgery needs.
