Frequently Asked Questions
If your dentist or physician has recommended a particular surgical treatment, you may have questions about the procedure. You may also have questions about our practice policies. Therefore, we have posted our most commonly asked questions and answers below. If your question is not answered on this page, please call us at 305-595-4122.
Do I have to come in for a consultation before having my wisdom teeth extracted?
 Yes. Your consultation appointment is an important part of your experience in our office. During this initial evaluation, we will examine your mouth and review your medical history. Then, we will determine the next steps in your surgical treatment. We will explain to you what to expect during and after your procedure, and we will advise you on how to prepare for your surgery. We will also answer any questions you have at this time. If you are under the age of 18, you MUST bring a parent or legal guardian with you to your consultation.
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How much will my treatment cost?
Since everyone’s teeth are unique and surgical procedures are different for each person, the fee depends upon the type and difficulty of the procedure. Other items, such as the insurance coverage or the type of anesthetic we use, may also affect the cost of your treatment.
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Do I need to bring my x-rays with me?
If you have had an x-ray taken by your general dentist within the last six months of your appointment with us, please bring it with you. If you have an older x-ray or haven’t had an x-ray in a while, we will be happy to take one when you arrive in our practice.
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Can I have a tooth extracted on the same day of the consultation?
Yes. If the tooth is not an impacted wisdom tooth and you are in good health, we should be able to remove the tooth during your consultation. When you need more than one tooth removed or Dr. Parnes or Dr. Paredes feel the procedure may be complicated, you will need to schedule another appointment so they can treat you with the care you deserve.
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 Can I eat or drink before having my tooth extracted?
If you are undergoing surgery with a local anesthesia (Novocain), you can eat prior to your visit and you can come to your appointment alone (if you are over the age of 18).
If you are going to be sedated, you cannot eat or drink (even water) for at least six hours before your appointment. A responsible adult must also accompany you to the appointment so they can drive you home after your surgery.
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Will the surgery hurt? Will I remember anything about it?
Once we give you a local anesthesia, the area we will be working on will be “asleep”. You may experience some feelings of pressure, but you will feel no pain at all. If you choose to be sedated, you will most likely have no memory of the procedure.
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How many days do I need for recovery?
Depending on the difficulty of your surgery, your initial recovery will be one to three days.
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Do I have to take my regular medicines on the day of the surgery?
It is very important that you DO take all of your normal daily medicines, unless the medication is a blood thinner (Plavix, aspirin, Coumadin, etc.). If you are going to be sedated, take these medicines with a MINIMAL amount of water.
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Will I need a follow-up appointment after my surgery?
If you are having a fairly simple procedure, you most likely will not need to return. For wisdom teeth extractions and more complicated procedures, we prefer to see our patients one week after the surgery to be sure you are healing properly. Of course, if you wish to schedule a post-operative evaluation, regardless of the procedure, Dr. Parnes and Dr. Paredes will see you when you set-up an appointment.
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Do I have to pay for my surgery up front? Do you work with my insurance plan?
We work with many dental insurance plans as well as some medical insurance plans. The financial consultant will call your insurance company while you are being seen during your consultation to get an estimate of what your out-of-pocket expense will be.
We require that all co-payments are to be paid one week in advance of the time of surgery. For your convenience, we accept cash, check, credit cards such as Master Card, Visa, Discover, and American Express, and financing through Care Credit as a means of payment.
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