FAQ

Services & Scheduling

Q: What services do you offer?

We offer a full scope of treatment in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This includes treatment such as extractions, widsom teeth removal, dental implants, TMJ problems, orthognathic surgery, facial bone fractures (broken jaws), cysts and tumors of the jaws, and sleep apnea. We hope that you will take the time to review our site and call us for any additional information.

Q: Can I be treated the same day as my consultation?

Many patients are seen and treated the same day. This is typical especially for extraction and other simple problems. Complicated problems will require separate consultations.

Q: Must I be referred by another dentist or doctor to get an appointment with Dr. Shabtaie?

Any patient can schedule their own appointment. Please call our office at (310) 208-3471 and the staff will be happy to make an appointment for you. If you are referred by someone such as your dentist or doctor, please let us know so we can communicate with them regarding your care and treatment.

Q: What if I have an after-hours emergency?

You will find it comforting to know that Dr. Shabtaie is readily available for his patients after hours, and he feels no concern is too small. Please contact our office and Dr. Shabtaie will promptly return your call.

Q: I am nervous about dental work. What can you do for me?

Our practice is committed to reducing your anxiety and putting you at ease about your treatment. We’ll make sure you know what to expect and Dr. Shabtaie will discuss which sedation options may be right for you.

Insurance & Billing

Q: What dental procedures are going to be payable under my medical plan?

It depends on your medical plan. Your participating dentist’s contracted rates will apply. To confirm coverage, call member services at the number listed on your member ID card.

Q: What is a “fee-for-service” practice?

Fee for service means that payment in full is due at the time of treatment. At the conclusion of your initial consultation with Dr. Shabtaie, our financial coordinator will explain your financial options. We offer several convenient financial options to assist you in receiving the oral surgery treatment that you need.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Q: What is Oral Surgery?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the specialty of dental practice that deals with the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries and defects of the mouth, jaws, face and related structures. This includes the removal of impacted and decayed teeth, placement of dental implants, biopsy and removal of cysts and tumors of the mouth and jaws, treatment of facial trauma and reconstructive jaw surgery.

Q: What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS)?

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist in the treatment of disease problems associated with the jaws, teeth, mouth and face. The type of problems that we see may be as simple as a tooth extraction to as complicated as reconstructive or tumor surgery. Educational requirements include graduation from dental school and completion of an approved internship and residency training program which is typically University and hospital based. Dr. Shabtaie Completed his training at UCLA School of Dentistry’s Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Post-Op, Recovery & Follow-Up

Q: Why must I have an escort with me when I undergo IV sedation or general anesthesia?

Although you will be able to walk out of the office on your own after the surgical procedure, your reflexes and decision-making ability may still be hindered due to the anesthesia. Your escort will ensure your safe return home and aid in your care following the oral surgery.

Q: I am quite busy. How long will I be out after surgery?

Depending on the type of surgery, single tooth extractions and placement of dental implants require at least 24-48 hours before you will feel ready to resume your daily routine. Other more involved procedures will require additional healing time.

Q: What is the typical recovery time after having a wisdom tooth extracted?

Although no two patients are the same, we expect a full recovery 3-5 days after a routine wisdom teeth or third molar extraction. For third molars that are more impacted, the recovery period is typically 5-7 days.

Q: If I’m not in pain, why do I need to return for a follow-up appointment?

We don’t expect our patients to have complications after an oral surgery procedure; however, a follow-up visit may ensure that healing is proceeding in the right direction.

Dental Implants

Q: What is a dental implant?

Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement option offered in dentistry. They are ideal for single tooth replacement and as support for loose fitting dentures. A dental implant is a titanium fixture that is surgically placed into your jaw bone to replace the root portion of a prosthetic tooth. During the usual 4-6 month healing phase, your bone will “osteointegrate,” or fuse, to the titanium fixture. Once the dental implant has integrated, your dentist will fabricate a crown which will be fastened to your implant. Please contact our office to arrange a dental implant consultation with Dr. Shabtaie.

Sinus Lifts

Q: What is a sinus lift?

Sometimes there is inadequate bone to replace upper teeth. In these cases, a sinus lift helps augment the needed bone in the upper back molar area in order to replace missing teeth with implants. It involves elevating the sinus membrane from within the mouth and placing a bone graft onto the sinus floor, allowing dental implants to be placed.

Dry Sockets

Q: What is a dry socket?

A dry socket is characterized by a sudden onset of a dull achy pain that usually occurs 3-4 days after a dental extraction, which cannot be relieved by pain medication. After a dental extraction, such as the removal of a wisdom tooth, a blood clot forms at the extraction site. This clot protects the surgical sites and facilitates healing. However, in some patients, the clot is lost prematurely and exposes the socket. This unprotected socket begins to experience pain and collects food, which often results in a foul odor and/or bad taste. Follow the post-operative instructions to minimize possible complications. If the problem persists, contact our office.

Q: How do I know if I am at risk of developing a dry socket?

Although it is difficult to predict who may develop dry sockets, several known risk factors include difficult impactions, prolonged extractions, tobacco use immediately before and/or after extractions, menstruating patients, females, older patients, and patients on birth control therapy.