An oral surgery consultation: questions before a procedure

An oral surgery consultation is intended to assess a problem and explain a possible care plan. It does not necessarily mean having a procedure that same day. Clarify the purpose of the appointment and bring earlier images or reports if they are relevant and available.

Discuss your health, medicines, allergies and experience of previous procedures. Do not change regular prescriptions or eating arrangements yourself based on general online advice. If special preparation is needed, the team should provide instructions for the planned procedure and anaesthesia.

Ask about the reason for the recommendation, available alternatives, expected benefits and risks. Clarify approximately how long the procedure takes and whether someone should accompany you afterwards. Also ask which follow-up visits are planned and whom to contact with questions at home.

Before agreeing, check that you understand the stages, cost and recovery arrangements. If you are anxious, say so and agree on how the team will explain what they are doing. Keep the written instructions: they should address your case rather than repeat someone else's experience of a similarly named procedure.