Frequently Asked Questions – Albuquerque, NM

Answering Common Questions
from Our Patients

Do you have questions about any of the treatments we offer, post-operative care, or dental insurance coverage? We want you to get the answers you need, which is why we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions that we receive from our patients below, along with our answers.

Does dental implant placement hurt?

Many patients don’t even need anesthesia during dental implant placement because the procedure is relatively non-invasive. If you’re nervous, we can administer dental sedation or localized anesthesia to ensure the area remains numb and you won’t feel a thing.

I’ve never had oral surgery before and I’m nervous. Can you help me feel more comfortable?

We understand that undergoing oral surgery can be scary, especially for patients who have never had to undergo any type of surgical procedure before. Our caring and understanding team can help you feel a little more at-ease by answering any questions or concerns you may have. Additionally, we can administer dental sedation during your treatment to help you feel more relaxed.

Does dental insurance cover wisdom tooth extraction?

It’s important to keep in mind that every dental insurance policy differs. That being said, dental insurance often extends benefits to this treatment, helping make the cost of your procedure more affordable, while allowing you to maintain good oral health.

At what age do wisdom teeth grow in?

Wisdom teeth grow between the ages of 16 and 25.

How long does it take to recover from dental implant surgery?

The length of your recovery time after dental implant surgery depends on how many implants you need to have placed. Many of our patients are able to continue about with their daily schedules the next day after surgery. However, if you’re replacing an entire arch of teeth, you might need to take it slow for a couple of days and allow your body to rest.

How do I make sure my dental implants don’t fail?

While dental implant failure is rare (dental implants have a 95% success rate), it’s not like it never happens. There are a few ways you can reduce your risk of experiencing any complications as you heal and your dental implants fuse with your jawbone. Be sure to keep your mouth clean and continue brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Also, protect your mouth from any bad oral habits like nightly grinding and clenching and nail biting.

Is facial feminization surgery covered by my medical insurance with a gender dysphoria diagnosis?

Accessing gender-affirming care can be incredibly difficult to navigate, and we want to make your experience safe, comfortable, and simple. While medical insurance coverage varies greatly from patient-to-patient, some plans will cover medically-necessary procedures like facial feminization surgery as treatment for gender dysphoria. Some policies require documentation to cover the procedure, while others may consider it to be a “cosmetic component of gender transition” and may not cover it at all. Our team will do our best to help you navigate your plan’s coverage and maximize your benefits.