Finding the right oral surgeon is a significant decision for your health, comfort, and peace of mind. Whether you need wisdom teeth removed, a dental implant placed, or corrective jaw surgery, you want to be sure you are in the hands of a skilled and trustworthy professional. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently choose the best oral surgeon in Glendale, from understanding qualifications to recognizing red flags.
Making an informed choice about your oral surgeon goes far beyond a simple online search. The provider you select directly influences your safety, the success of your procedure, and the smoothness of your recovery. Taking the time to find the right fit ensures you receive care that is not only effective but also compassionate and tailored to your specific needs.
Unlike a routine dental cleaning, oral surgery is a complex medical procedure. It requires precision, specialized knowledge, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. Placing your trust in a surgeon means relying on their experience to handle both straightforward and unexpected situations. An experienced oral surgeon in Glendale will have a proven track record of successful outcomes, giving you the confidence that you are in capable hands.
While your general dentist is your primary partner for maintaining oral health, an oral surgeon has undergone years of additional, intensive training specifically in surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, and face. After dental school, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) completes a demanding hospital-based residency program lasting at least four years. This specialized training covers complex extractions, dental implant placement, bone grafting, anesthesia administration, and facial trauma reconstruction. A general dentist typically focuses on preventative and restorative care like fillings, crowns, and cleanings, and will refer you to an oral surgery specialist for more complex needs.
The right oral surgeon in Glendale utilizes advanced technology and proven techniques to ensure your procedure is as safe and predictable as possible. Their expertise minimizes the risk of complications, such as nerve damage or infection. Furthermore, a skilled surgeon's precise work leads to better functional and aesthetic results—whether it's a perfectly placed implant or a jaw alignment that improves your bite. Finally, their guidance on post-operative care is crucial for a swift and comfortable recovery, helping you get back to your life with less pain and downtime.
When evaluating a potential surgeon, their credentials are non-negotiable. These qualifications are a clear indicator of their expertise, commitment to safety, and dedication to the highest standards of care. Don’t hesitate to ask about these important distinctions.
One of the most important credentials to look for is board certification. A board-certified oral surgeon has not only completed their residency but has also passed a rigorous series of written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS). This certification demonstrates a surgeon’s exemplary knowledge and skill in the specialty. It is a voluntary process that signifies a surgeon's commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.
An oral surgeon with hospital privileges has been vetted and approved to perform procedures in a hospital setting. This is a significant indicator of trust from the medical community. It means their skills and protocols meet the hospital's strict safety standards. Additionally, the field of dentistry is always advancing. A qualified oral surgeon actively participates in continuing education to stay current with the latest techniques, technologies, and patient safety protocols, ensuring you receive the most modern care available.
Active membership in professional organizations like the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) and the American Dental Association (ADA) is another positive sign. These organizations provide surgeons with valuable resources, research, and peer-reviewed information. Involvement shows that a surgeon is engaged with their professional community and dedicated to upholding the ethical and clinical standards of their specialty.
A qualified oral surgeon should have extensive experience across a spectrum of procedures, from common extractions to complex reconstructions. This breadth of experience is important because it equips them to handle any challenges that may arise during your surgery. Ask about their experience with the specific procedure you need, as well as their overall surgical background.
While qualifications provide a baseline, true expertise is honed over years of practice. An experienced oral surgeon brings a level of nuance, skill, and judgment to their work that can only be gained through performing thousands of procedures. This depth of experience is what often separates a good outcome from a great one.
The more a surgeon performs a procedure, the more refined their technique becomes. An oral surgeon who has been practicing in Glendale for many years has likely encountered a vast array of clinical scenarios, making them better prepared to manage your specific case. Don't just consider the number of years; inquire about the volume of surgeries they perform. A surgeon with a high volume of successful dental implant surgeries, for instance, has developed an efficiency and precision that benefits every patient.
Look for a surgeon with a focus on the specific treatment you require. If you need a dental implant, you want a dental implant surgeon in Glendale who has placed hundreds or thousands of them. If you suffer from jaw pain, a TMJ surgery specialist will have a deeper understanding of the joint's complexities. Great oral surgeons often have specific areas of expertise, such as advanced bone grafting to prepare a site for an implant or complex wisdom tooth extractions.
Experience also means embracing innovation. Leading oral surgeons use modern technology to improve accuracy and patient safety. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) provides highly detailed 3D images of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures, allowing for meticulous planning. This is far more advanced than a standard 2D X-ray. For implants, guided implant surgery uses this 3D scan to create a surgical template that directs the precise placement of the implant, enhancing safety and predictability.
An experienced surgeon can better anticipate potential issues before they occur. Their refined technique often results in less tissue disruption, which translates to reduced post-operative swelling, bruising, and pain. They can more accurately predict healing times and provide personalized post-operative instructions. This foresight and skill significantly lower the risk of complications and contribute to a smoother, faster recovery.
Online reviews offer a window into the patient experience at a particular practice. However, it's important to read them with a critical eye to get a truly accurate picture.
No practice is perfect, and a stray negative review is not necessarily a red flag. What matters are the patterns. Look for consistent themes across multiple reviews. Do patients repeatedly mention the surgeon’s compassionate chairside manner? Do they praise the friendly and helpful staff? Do they highlight a smooth and painless recovery? These consistent comments are far more telling than a single glowing or critical review.
Genuine reviews often contain specific details about the patient's experience. A review that says, "Dr. Smith was great," is less helpful than one that says, "Dr. Smith took the time to explain my wisdom tooth extraction, answered all my questions, and called me personally that evening to check on me." Look for reviews that describe the process, the environment, and the interactions with the team. These detailed accounts provide credible insight into what you can expect.
At Infinite Dental Wellness, we are proud of the trust our patients place in us. Our reviews consistently highlight our team’s commitment to gentle, personalized care and outstanding surgical results. Patients frequently comment on our clean, modern office, the clarity of our communication, and the comfort they felt throughout their procedure. We encourage you to read our testimonials to see why so many in Glendale choose us for their oral surgery needs.
Use this scannable checklist during your research and consultation to ensure you've covered all the important bases.
Confirm that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS). This is a top indicator of expertise.
Ask about their imaging technology and surgical techniques. Advanced tools like CBCT scans and guided implant systems are the standard for high-quality care. Also, inquire about the range of sedation options available to ensure your comfort.
Your surgeon should be able to explain your procedure, the benefits, and any potential risks in a way that you can easily understand. You should feel informed, not confused.
Check Google, Yelp, and other platforms for patterns of positive feedback regarding the surgeon’s skill, the staff’s helpfulness, and the overall patient experience.
This confirms they have been vetted by a hospital’s credentialing committee, which is a strong endorsement of their qualifications and safety standards.
Trust your gut. The right practice will make you feel heard, respected, and at ease. You should leave your dental consultation feeling confident in your treatment plan and your choice of provider.
Just as there are signs of a great surgeon, there are also warning signs that should make you cautious. Being aware of these red flags can help you avoid a negative experience.
A surgeon’s credentials should be easy to find on their website or by asking the office. If the practice is evasive about board certification, training, or licensing, consider it a major red flag. Transparency is key.
A good surgeon will present you with all viable treatment options and give you time to make an informed decision. High-pressure sales tactics or a refusal to discuss alternatives are unprofessional and may suggest the surgeon is not prioritizing your best interests.
A practice that hasn't invested in modern technology like 3D imaging may not be committed to providing the highest standard of care. Likewise, if the surgeon seems to apply the same solution to every patient without personalizing the treatment plan, they may lack the nuanced skill required for complex cases.
Difficulty scheduling an appointment, unanswered phone calls, or a dismissive attitude from the staff or surgeon are all warning signs. A quality practice values clear and respectful communication at every step. If you can't get a clear answer before a procedure, it may be even harder to get one afterward.
At Infinite Dental Wellness, we are dedicated to providing an unparalleled oral surgery experience. We combine top-tier credentials, advanced technology, and a deep commitment to patient well-being.
Our team includes highly skilled and credentialed professionals with years of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Our dentists, Dr. Leon Kiraj and Dr. Liana Muradyan, are graduates of USC’s prestigious Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and are committed to the highest standards of surgical excellence.
We have invested in the latest dental technology to ensure your safety and produce the best possible results. Our office is equipped with CBCT 3D imaging for precise diagnostics and surgical planning. For dental implants, we use guided implant systems to achieve optimal placement and long-term success in a mercury-free and environmentally friendly facility.
Our surgical team performs a high volume of procedures annually, from wisdom tooth removals to full-mouth reconstructions with dental implants. This extensive experience ensures we are prepared for any clinical situation and can deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes.
Our doctors maintain hospital privileges, reflecting the trust of the local medical community. During surgical procedures in our office, we use full-spectrum patient monitoring equipment to ensure your safety and comfort at all times, whether you are under local anesthesia or sedation.
We believe that exceptional care goes beyond technical skill. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a surgical plan that is tailored specifically to you. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable, informed, and confident from your first consultation to your final follow-up.
As you finalize your decision, it's helpful to have a framework for comparing your options. Use your consultation as an opportunity to gather the information you need.
A transparent practice will provide you with a clear estimate of costs upfront. At Infinite Dental Wellness, we accept all PPO insurance plans and will help you understand your benefits. We also offer flexible financing options. Be sure to ask about the follow-up schedule and what post-operative care includes. Our team provides detailed instructions and is always available to address concerns during your recovery. Please note, we do not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal insurance.
We believe the patient experience is just as important as the clinical outcome. Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming and stress-free environment. From the moment you call our office to your post-operative check-ups, you will be treated with respect and compassion. This patient-first philosophy is the foundation of our practice and a key reason why Glendale families trust us with their care.
Here are answers to some common questions patients have when seeking an oral surgeon.
While many patients are referred by their general dentist, a referral is not always necessary. If you have a specific concern, such as a painful wisdom tooth or a desire for dental implants, you can call our office directly to schedule a consultation. We accept all PPO insurance plans.
Please bring your dental insurance card, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and any recent X-rays from your general dentist, if available. Most importantly, bring a list of any questions or concerns you have.
It depends on the procedure and the patient's preference. Simple procedures may only require local anesthesia (numbing). For more complex surgeries or for anxious patients, we offer several levels of sedation, including oral sedation and IV sedation, to ensure you are completely comfortable. We will discuss the best option for you during your consultation.
Your general dentist can handle many procedures, but you should see an oral surgeon for complex extractions (like impacted wisdom teeth), dental implant placement, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery, or facial trauma. If you're unsure, a consultation with an oral surgeon is the best way to get a definitive answer.
Most PPO dental insurance plans provide coverage for medically necessary oral surgery procedures, such as extractions and bone grafting. Coverage for procedures like dental implants can vary. Our team will verify your benefits and provide you with a detailed cost estimate before any treatment begins.
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