What a General Dentist Often Handles
General dentists often manage exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, basic restorative care, and referrals when surgical complexity increases.
Oral Surgeon vs Dentist: Who Should I See?
Understand when to see an oral surgeon vs a general dentist for implants, wisdom teeth, sedation, bone grafting, facial trauma, and complex cases.
What to Know
When an Oral Surgeon May Be Recommended
An oral surgeon may be recommended for impacted wisdom teeth, surgical extractions, IV sedation, bone grafting, implants, facial trauma, or jaw concerns.
How Referrals Work
Patients may be referred by a dentist or may call directly to ask what records, imaging, or next steps are needed.
Questions to Ask
Ask about diagnosis, imaging, sedation, risks, recovery, timing, alternatives, and whether specialist evaluation is appropriate.
Treatment recommendations depend on your evaluation, medical history, imaging, and surgical plan. If you have trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or major trauma, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Helpful OFSIH Links
FAQs
Do I need a referral?
Call the office to discuss whether a referral is needed for your situation.
Can an oral surgeon place implants?
OFSIH evaluates dental implant surgical planning, bone needs, sedation, and related oral surgery concerns.
When is emergency medical care needed?
Seek emergency medical care for breathing trouble, swallowing trouble, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or major trauma.