Whether or not you need a referral for wisdom teeth removal depends on the practice’s policies. Some clinics accept patients without a referral, while others require one to perform oral surgical treatments. Erupting wisdom teeth can cause significant pain and discomfort. They can also lead to serious health issues. Innovative Oral Surgery encourages patients to be proactive when removing wisdom teeth.
We provide personalized, patient-centered care using the most innovative and reliable techniques. We prioritize our patients’ ongoing comfort and treat every person as we would a member of our own family–with compassion, respect, and the highest level of clinical expertise.
What Is a Referral?
Dentists provide referrals when a patient requires a specialized diagnosis or treatment. In many cases, referrals are necessary to obtain insurance coverage for a procedure, as they establish that it is medically necessary. They also allow dentists and oral surgeons to confer about a patient’s medical history and background.
How Will You Know It’s Time to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?
Sometimes, a patient may only become aware of issues with wisdom teeth after visiting a dentist for a checkup. In other instances, patients may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain and Discomfort – Impacted wisdom teeth can pressure other teeth as they push forward, which results in significant discomfort. Patients will also experience substantial tooth pain if an impacted tooth becomes infected.
- Red, Swollen Gums – Redness and swelling of the gums can indicate an impacted tooth under the gum line. Gums may also feel tender and warm to the touch with an impacted tooth.
- Jaw Dysfunction – Some people with impacted wisdom teeth also experience gum pain and dysfunction. This can make eating and speaking challenging until the situation is resolved.
- Sinus Issues – Along with pain and pressure in the mouth and jaw, impacted wisdom teeth can also cause increasing pressure within the sinus cavity.
Innovative Oral Surgery urges patients to contact our office immediately if they experience symptoms related to wisdom teeth.
Do Dentists Perform Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Your dentist is the primary care provider for your oral health. They handle teeth cleanings, fill cavities, take X-rays, and other treatments, such as crowns, dentures, and bridges. Oral surgeons have the training and expertise to perform wisdom tooth extraction, so they’re often the better choice.
Every oral surgeon at Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants is board-certified and committed to delivering exceptional care. We provide education and training opportunities for local dentists and stay at the forefront of advancements in their field to best serve our patients.
How Can You Get a Referral If Necessary?
If you’re required to get a referral, here are a few simple steps to take:
- Visit your current dentist and review any dental issues you’re experiencing, such as tooth pain or swollen gums.
- Review your insurance policy to learn more about referral requirements.
- Contact an oral surgeon to schedule a consultation, or have your dentist arrange an appointment.
Your insurance company may require you to visit specific providers when needing oral surgery. If you choose to visit another provider, you may be responsible for costs related to the procedure.
You’re in Good Hands at Innovative Oral Surgery
As board-certified wisdom teeth surgeons, our team at Innovative Oral Surgery supports patients every step of the way when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. Our hardworking staff provides friendly, attentive service to every person who walks through our doors. Our team attends continuing education courses and seminars regularly to stay up-to-date on advancements in the field, and our front desk staff is well-versed in insurance and financial information to answer your questions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.