Medically Reviewed by Dr. Nancy Herbst on August 14, 2026
Choosing to undergo oral surgery can be a significant and frightening decision. Fortunately, a compassionate oral surgeon can help put your mind at ease and prepare you for your procedure and what to expect along your road to recovery. If you plan on undergoing oral surgery, one of the most critical steps is scheduling a consultation with your surgeon. During your consultation, your surgeon will work to address your concerns and make sure you are both on the same page regarding your health and comfort.
Legacy Oral Surgery‘s specialists are committed to taking a patient-centric approach to every treatment plan. We use innovative, state-of-the-art technologies to provide you with personalized and pain-free care. Our experienced surgeons are ready to get to know you and your unique needs to develop a treatment plan that delivers the smile you deserve.
5 Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Oral Surgery Consultation
Scheduling a surgery is a nerve-wracking experience, and many patients are nervous about their first surgery consultation. However, understanding what to expect can help you calm your nerves and ensure your consultation is as productive as possible. Before speaking to your oral surgeon, consider our five helpful tips below.
Be Prepared to Explain Your Issue
It is essential for your oral surgeon to understand the full extent of the problems you are hoping to resolve through surgery. Whether it’s severe jaw pain, impacted wisdom teeth, or a facial injury, it is important to discuss your symptoms and their impacts on your life. Explaining your goals for recovery helps your surgeon personalize your treatment plan.
Expect an Oral Exam and Diagnostic Imaging
At your consultation, your surgeon will thoroughly examine your teeth, mouth, and jaw to understand your condition, as part of a broader pre-operative oral surgery assessment. They will also review your past medical and dental records for any pertinent information. Diagnostic imaging will also be performed to examine areas of your mouth and jaw not visible to the naked eye.
Bring a List of Your Current Prescriptions
Depending on the type of procedure you need, you may need anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Some medications cannot be mixed with certain forms of sedation, so your doctor needs a complete list of what you take to choose the best anesthesia option for you.
Expect to Fill Out Forms and Paperwork
To provide the best possible care, your surgeon must thoroughly understand your medical history. At your consultation, you’ll be asked to complete forms covering your personal medical history, relevant family history, and any prior injuries or surgeries.
Prepare a List of Questions
If you’re considering oral surgery, you likely have a million questions about the process. These questions can be easy to forget during your consultation, so bringing a written list helps you stay on track and leave with real peace of mind.
Questions Worth Adding to Your List
Not sure where to start with your own question list? These categories cover the ground most patients want addressed before committing to a procedure.
About the Procedure
What the surgery involves step by step, and what makes you a good candidate given your health history.
Anesthesia Choices
Which sedation option fits your procedure and comfort level, and how it may interact with your current medications.
Recovery Timeline
How long before you can return to work, exercise, or normal eating, and whether you will need a ride home.
If dental anxiety is part of what makes this decision difficult, you are not alone, and it is a completely reasonable thing to bring up directly at your consultation. Our overview of sedation options for dental anxiety walks through the choices available so you can ask about the ones that sound like the best fit.
Preparing Your Body Before the Day of Surgery
Once your consultation confirms a treatment plan, your preparation does not stop there. Many procedures come with specific pre-surgical guidance covering diet, hydration, and medication timing in the days leading up to your appointment. Our guide on the role of nutrition in preparing for oral surgery outlines practical steps you can start well before your procedure date to support a smoother recovery.
Discuss Your Oral Health with a Skilled Oral Surgeon
At Legacy Oral Surgery, we are committed to providing our patients with innovative treatment plans that prioritize their health and comfort. We understand the discomfort you are experiencing and aim to get you back to a comfortable life as soon as possible. When you trust us with your oral health, you can expect to leave our office satisfied. To schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you, complete our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Oral Surgery Consultation
How long does an oral surgery consultation usually take?
Most initial consultations take between 30 and 60 minutes, allowing time for a full exam, diagnostic imaging, paperwork review, and a discussion of your questions. Complex cases may require additional time.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a photo ID, insurance information, any referral paperwork from your dentist, a current list of medications and supplements, and any prior imaging or dental records you have available.
Will I find out my treatment plan at the first visit?
In many cases, yes. Once your exam and imaging are complete, your surgeon can typically outline a recommended treatment plan and answer questions about the timeline and next steps during the same visit.
Can I bring someone with me to the consultation?
Yes. Bringing a family member or friend can help you remember details, ask follow-up questions, and feel more at ease, especially if dental anxiety is a concern for you.
Is the consultation itself painful?
No. The consultation is an evaluation, not a procedure. It involves an exam, imaging, and conversation, all of which are non-invasive and designed to help plan your care.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Legacy Oral Surgery Group
Dr. Nancy Herbst leads the surgical team at Legacy Oral Surgery Group, bringing more than 25 years of oral and maxillofacial surgery experience to patients across the practice’s Union City, Elizabeth, and Staten Island offices.
