FAQ

Several methods of anesthesia are available for oral surgery procedures. The method of anesthesia chosen for or by a patient depends on the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension, and will be discussed with you during your consultation.

In certain complex procedures or in cases of phobia, Dr. Arnaud may recommend that your procedure be performed under general anesthesia.

General anesthesia is administered by a team of FMH anesthesiologists directly at the practice. We will insert an IV line into your arm to administer the medication. You will be completely asleep during your procedure and will be able to go home a few hours after waking up. Local anesthesia is always administered in addition to painkillers, making waking up almost painless.

The general anesthesia administered by a team of FMH anesthesiologists directly at the practice is a light anesthesia.

You will be completely asleep during your procedure and will be able to go home (accompanied only) a few hours after waking up.

There is no need to stay overnight for observation after surgery; this is known as outpatient surgery.

Yes, you must fast before undergoing general anesthesia. The recommendations are strict in this regard because there can be serious complications.

It is generally recommended that you do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the procedure, except for a glass of water to take your usual medication or any medication prescribed by Dr. Arnaud.

If you do not comply with this rule, the anesthesia team may cancel your procedure.

During your consultation with Dr. Arnaud, you will have the opportunity to discuss the different types of anesthesia available for your procedure. If you suffer from severe anxiety or phobia, or if the procedure is complicated to perform while you are awake, then general anesthesia will be recommended.

Yes, it is perfectly safe to leave alone after local anesthesia or to drive (bike, car, etc.).

The effect of local anesthesia lasts approximately 1:30 to 2:00 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure performed.

Local anesthesia is similar to that used by dentists for dental treatment. General anesthesia is a state comparable to deep sleep, induced by the injection of drugs or the inhalation of anesthetic gases. It allows surgical procedures to be performed without pain or consciousness, while ensuring continuous monitoring of your vital functions by the anesthesia team (FMH).

General anesthesia is charged by the hour. Depending on the procedure (short or longer), a quote will be prepared for 1 hour, 2 hours, or even 3 hours.

The bill is to be paid directly to the anesthesia team; it is a separate amount from that charged for your surgical procedure by Dr. Arnaud.

Oral surgeons have advanced training (four years of specialization) and specific experience that allows them to accurately assess X-rays/scans and plan complex dental extractions in detail, minimizing the risk of complications.

They have access to specialized technical equipment to handle difficult cases, such as impacted wisdom teeth or teeth close to nerves.

In addition, in the event of complications during or after the procedure, oral surgeons are equipped and trained to intervene quickly and effectively. Finally, their familiarity with surgical procedures reduces the time required for the procedure, resulting in faster recovery and a better experience for the patient.

No, but most patients need to have them removed for a variety of reasons: cavities, infections, lack of space, associated cysts, etc.

Occasionally, we see a patient whose wisdom teeth appear to be coming through and positioning themselves correctly in the mouth. The teeth are used for chewing and are therefore functional, so they do not need to be removed.

However, they are still prone to cavities or periodontal disease and must be monitored for life, just like other teeth.

If the size of the jaws does not allow for proper positioning of the wisdom teeth in the mouth, then it is probably necessary to have them removed.
They can cause problems such as cavities, gum inflammation or infection, the formation of cysts, and contribute to dental crowding.
Towards the end of bone growth, a consultation with a panoramic X-ray allows for a diagnosis to be made.

In most cases, it is recommended that wisdom teeth be removed before the roots are fully formed. This will result in better postoperative results and reduce the risk of complications.

As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jawbone becomes denser.

The ideal time for some patients is around 12 or 13 years of age, while for others it may not be until their early twenties.

Problems tend to occur more frequently around the age of 30. If you are unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, contact Dr. Arnaud to schedule a consultation.

For example, for a 17-year-old teenager having all four wisdom teeth removed, the procedure will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes, but you should allow for 90 minutes at the clinic.

This duration may vary depending on the complexity of the teeth to be removed, the patient’s age, health conditions, mouth opening, and anxiety about the surgery.

This is why, during the consultation, Dr. Arnaud may offer you different types of anesthesia in order to determine the most suitable option for your situation.

No pain is felt during the procedure, even though it is performed under local anesthesia (the patient is awake). Local anesthesia removes all sensation of pain; pressure and touch will be the only sensations felt while the surgeon is working.

Most patients have four wisdom teeth (one on each side of each jaw). Sometimes some people have more or fewer (this is referred to as dental agenesis).
As a general rule, all wisdom teeth are removed in the same session in a single procedure (under local or general anesthesia).

During your preoperative consultation with Dr. Arnaud, the subject of anesthesia will be discussed. Generally, this type of procedure is performed under local anesthesia, but some patients with phobias or teeth that are difficult to remove will require general anesthesia.

During your preoperative consultation, you will receive an information sheet explaining the instructions to follow after your procedure. It is strongly recommended that you apply ice to your cheeks to prevent edema (swelling), eat soft foods (fish, risotto, fruits such as bananas, compotes, etc.), refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol, and reduce your social and professional activities for approximately 48 to 72 hours.

During your preoperative consultation, you will be given a prescription to prepare for your surgery and also for your recovery.
The impaction (depth in the bone) of your wisdom teeth, any medical conditions you may have, and the difficulty of the procedure will determine the treatments you will receive. These range from antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and painkillers to antiseptic mouthwash.

The follow-up visit is scheduled for 7-10 days after the procedure. In certain cases where there is a medical condition (uncontrolled diabetes) or certain medications are being taken (bisphosphonates), another visit will be scheduled 2 or 3 weeks after the procedure.

Stitches are not always necessary; it depends on the position of the wisdom tooth (whether it is below the gum line or not). If Dr. Arnaud does use stitches, they are dissolvable and will fall out approximately two weeks after the procedure.

The cost of your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty of removing your teeth and the type of anesthesia that is best for you. During your consultation appointment, Dr. Arnaud will analyze your X-rays, perform a clinical examination, and determine the best option for anesthesia, so that an accurate financial estimate can be provided.

Only certain specific situations are covered by LAMal insurance. In other cases, supplementary dental insurance will be required for reimbursement.

For foreign patients, coverage is possible if you have international insurance.

A dental implant is a titanium alloy screw surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace an entire tooth, including the root. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and well tolerated. For example, a single dental implant can be inserted in 30 minutes.

Facial fractures, congenital malformations, periodontitis, dental infections, bone cysts and tumors, or even missing teeth over a long period of time can cause jawbone atrophy or resorption.

This often results in poor bone quality and quantity suitable for dental implants, as well as long-term displacement of remaining teeth and changes in facial structure. Most patients in these situations with bone loss are not candidates for dental implants.

Performing a bone graft on the affected area not only makes it possible to place implants of the appropriate length and width to replace missing teeth, but also provides an opportunity to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance with long-term fixed teeth.

Many patients who wish to receive dental implants or other tooth replacement treatments require bone grafting.

The first step is a preoperative consultation with Dr. Arnaud to assess the height and width of the bone available on the tooth to be replaced, as well as the condition of the gums. The consultation is always supplemented by a bone scan.

The second step is the surgical procedure to place the dental implant in the patient’s bone, followed by a healing period of between two and three months.

The third step involves creating the crown on the implant, which is carried out by your general dentist. They will take an impression, which will be used by a dental technician to manufacture the ceramic tooth before it is fixed onto the dental implant by your dentist.

If local anesthesia is chosen during the preoperative consultation, Dr. Arnaud will administer local anesthesia to the area during the procedure.
The implant is then placed after painless bone preparation, stitches are applied, and a control X-ray is taken.
The patient is seen again after 7 days to remove the stitches and after 2 months to check the stability of the implant before the crown can be fitted by their dentist.

The cost of dental implants is not covered by basic insurance (LaMal) except in cases of specific illnesses.

In the event of an accident, accident insurance (LAA) rarely covers dental implants. To find out, a request must be made and reviewed with the medical advisor and Dr. Arnaud.

Otherwise, supplementary dental insurance policies generally cover a portion (a percentage or an annual amount) of the total cost.

You must be over 20 years old, as your teeth and jaws must have finished growing and developing. Children with congenitally missing teeth will therefore have to wait until this age before they can benefit from implant treatment.

If you are missing a tooth surrounded by other teeth, there are three options for replacing it:
– a removable denture that attaches to the other teeth with clasps
– a dental bridge, which involves shaping the teeth (preparing them to a point) before cementing ceramic teeth onto them (3 teeth attached)
The first two options can only be performed by your dentist.
– The third option involves inserting a titanium or ceramic screw into the jawbone (dental implant) to hold a ceramic tooth in place without affecting the other teeth. This treatment is performed by an oral surgeon for the dental implant (screw) and by your dentist for the crown on the implant.

Dental implants are mainly made from two primary materials:

– Titanium: Titanium is the most commonly used material for dental implants due to its exceptional biocompatibility. It integrates easily with bone (osseointegration process) and is corrosion resistant. In oral implantology, the standard is grade 4 titanium, which is classified as “commercially pure” titanium.

– Zirconia: Zirconia implants are becoming increasingly popular, especially for people looking for a metal-free alternative. Zirconia is a white ceramic material, making it more aesthetic in certain areas, particularly for visible teeth. It is also biocompatible and resistant, although its use is less widespread than titanium. The purchase price of the dental implant is also higher.

Yes, tooth extraction and immediate implant placement is a procedure that involves removing a damaged tooth and replacing it with a dental implant during the same appointment. The patient does not have to wait for the bone to heal after tooth extraction (usually between 3 and 6 months). This method reduces treatment time and the number of procedures.

Osseointegration of the implant can take an additional three to six months, and the implants must not be disturbed during this period. Any movement or pressure could interfere with healing, delay the process, and even cause the implant to fail.

During the initial consultation, Dr. Arnaud will conduct a medical interview, clinical examinations, and X-rays/scans to determine whether implant treatment is feasible in your situation.

Health problems such as poorly controlled diabetes, treatments such as bisphosphonates, or even excessive smoking are contraindications for this type of treatment.

Facial fractures, congenital malformations, periodontitis, dental infections, bone cysts and tumors, or even missing teeth over a long period of time can cause jawbone atrophy or resorption.

This often results in poor bone quality and quantity suitable for dental implants, as well as long-term displacement of remaining teeth and changes in facial structure. Most patients in these situations with bone loss are not candidates for dental implants.

Performing a bone graft on the affected area not only makes it possible to place implants of the appropriate length and width to replace missing teeth, but also provides an opportunity to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance with fixed teeth rather than traditional dentures.

There are many types of bone graft procedures, most of which involve taking bone graft material and placing it in areas that lack the right quality or quantity of bone. Bone grafting is a common procedure for patients who are missing one or more teeth and whose jawbone volume has diminished over time. Bone graft material can come from several sources: animal, human, or the patient themselves.

These bone graft procedures are usually performed under local anesthesia, but some situations require general anesthesia depending on the extent of the graft.

Generally, after the procedure, typical postoperative effects such as swelling or bruising disappear within 3 to 5 days.

The bone then needs to be left to harden for several months. This depends on the origin of your bone graft: animal, human, or your own. Healing times can vary from 4 to 9 months depending on the type and volume of the bone graft performed. A bone scan will be performed to confirm whether or not the graft has integrated well with your bone.

Some materials can resorb over time. Not all materials available on the market can be used for the same reasons.

Animal bone and the patient’s own bone, for example, have very low resorption rates.

That is why, during your initial consultation, Dr. Arnaud will explain the differences between the available bone materials and existing techniques so that you can choose the best treatment that will last over time.

The price of a bone graft can vary by up to three times and is calculated according to several criteria during your consultation with Dr. Arnaud:

– depending on the materials used, the volume required, whether the graft is performed during or in a separate session from the placement of dental implants
– depending on the type of local or general anesthesia (requiring the presence of an FMH anesthesiologist)

Several methods of anesthesia are available for oral surgery procedures. The method of anesthesia chosen for or by a patient depends on the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension, and will be discussed with you during your consultation.

In certain complex procedures or in cases of phobia, Dr. Arnaud may recommend that your procedure be performed under general anesthesia.

General anesthesia is administered by a team of FMH anesthesiologists directly at the practice. We will insert an IV line into your arm to administer the medication. You will be completely asleep during your procedure and will be able to go home a few hours after waking up. Local anesthesia is always administered in addition to painkillers, making waking up almost painless.

The general anesthesia administered by a team of FMH anesthesiologists directly at the practice is a light anesthesia.

You will be completely asleep during your procedure and will be able to go home (accompanied only) a few hours after waking up.

There is no need to stay overnight for observation after surgery; this is known as outpatient surgery.

Yes, you must fast before undergoing general anesthesia. The recommendations are strict in this regard because there can be serious complications.

It is generally recommended that you do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the procedure, except for a glass of water to take your usual medication or any medication prescribed by Dr. Arnaud.

If you do not comply with this rule, the anesthesia team may cancel your procedure.

During your consultation with Dr. Arnaud, you will have the opportunity to discuss the different types of anesthesia available for your procedure. If you suffer from severe anxiety or phobia, or if the procedure is complicated to perform while you are awake, then general anesthesia will be recommended.

Yes, it is perfectly safe to leave alone after local anesthesia or to drive (bike, car, etc.).

The effect of local anesthesia lasts approximately 1:30 to 2:00 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure performed.

Local anesthesia is similar to that used by dentists for dental treatment. General anesthesia is a state comparable to deep sleep, induced by the injection of drugs or the inhalation of anesthetic gases. It allows surgical procedures to be performed without pain or consciousness, while ensuring continuous monitoring of your vital functions by the anesthesia team (FMH).

General anesthesia is charged by the hour. Depending on the procedure (short or longer), a quote will be prepared for 1 hour, 2 hours, or even 3 hours.

The bill is to be paid directly to the anesthesia team; it is a separate amount from that charged for your surgical procedure by Dr. Arnaud.

Oral surgeons have advanced training (four years of specialization) and specific experience that allows them to accurately assess X-rays/scans and plan complex dental extractions in detail, minimizing the risk of complications.

They have access to specialized technical equipment to handle difficult cases, such as impacted wisdom teeth or teeth close to nerves.

In addition, in the event of complications during or after the procedure, oral surgeons are equipped and trained to intervene quickly and effectively. Finally, their familiarity with surgical procedures reduces the time required for the procedure, resulting in faster recovery and a better experience for the patient.

No, but most patients need to have them removed for a variety of reasons: cavities, infections, lack of space, associated cysts, etc.

Occasionally, we see a patient whose wisdom teeth appear to be coming through and positioning themselves correctly in the mouth. The teeth are used for chewing and are therefore functional, so they do not need to be removed.

However, they are still prone to cavities or periodontal disease and must be monitored for life, just like other teeth.

If the size of the jaws does not allow for proper positioning of the wisdom teeth in the mouth, then it is probably necessary to have them removed.
They can cause problems such as cavities, gum inflammation or infection, the formation of cysts, and contribute to dental crowding.
Towards the end of bone growth, a consultation with a panoramic X-ray allows for a diagnosis to be made.

In most cases, it is recommended that wisdom teeth be removed before the roots are fully formed. This will result in better postoperative results and reduce the risk of complications.

As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jawbone becomes denser.

The ideal time for some patients is around 12 or 13 years of age, while for others it may not be until their early twenties.

Problems tend to occur more frequently around the age of 30. If you are unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, contact Dr. Arnaud to schedule a consultation.

For example, for a 17-year-old teenager having all four wisdom teeth removed, the procedure will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes, but you should allow for 90 minutes at the clinic.

This duration may vary depending on the complexity of the teeth to be removed, the patient’s age, health conditions, mouth opening, and anxiety about the surgery.

This is why, during the consultation, Dr. Arnaud may offer you different types of anesthesia in order to determine the most suitable option for your situation.

No pain is felt during the procedure, even though it is performed under local anesthesia (the patient is awake). Local anesthesia removes all sensation of pain; pressure and touch will be the only sensations felt while the surgeon is working.

Most patients have four wisdom teeth (one on each side of each jaw). Sometimes some people have more or fewer (this is referred to as dental agenesis).
As a general rule, all wisdom teeth are removed in the same session in a single procedure (under local or general anesthesia).

During your preoperative consultation with Dr. Arnaud, the subject of anesthesia will be discussed. Generally, this type of procedure is performed under local anesthesia, but some patients with phobias or teeth that are difficult to remove will require general anesthesia.

During your preoperative consultation, you will receive an information sheet explaining the instructions to follow after your procedure. It is strongly recommended that you apply ice to your cheeks to prevent edema (swelling), eat soft foods (fish, risotto, fruits such as bananas, compotes, etc.), refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol, and reduce your social and professional activities for approximately 48 to 72 hours.

During your preoperative consultation, you will be given a prescription to prepare for your surgery and also for your recovery.
The impaction (depth in the bone) of your wisdom teeth, any medical conditions you may have, and the difficulty of the procedure will determine the treatments you will receive. These range from antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and painkillers to antiseptic mouthwash.

The follow-up visit is scheduled for 7-10 days after the procedure. In certain cases where there is a medical condition (uncontrolled diabetes) or certain medications are being taken (bisphosphonates), another visit will be scheduled 2 or 3 weeks after the procedure.

Stitches are not always necessary; it depends on the position of the wisdom tooth (whether it is below the gum line or not). If Dr. Arnaud does use stitches, they are dissolvable and will fall out approximately two weeks after the procedure.

The cost of your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty of removing your teeth and the type of anesthesia that is best for you. During your consultation appointment, Dr. Arnaud will analyze your X-rays, perform a clinical examination, and determine the best option for anesthesia, so that an accurate financial estimate can be provided.

Only certain specific situations are covered by LAMal insurance. In other cases, supplementary dental insurance will be required for reimbursement.

For foreign patients, coverage is possible if you have international insurance.

A dental implant is a titanium alloy screw surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace an entire tooth, including the root. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and well tolerated. For example, a single dental implant can be inserted in 30 minutes.

Facial fractures, congenital malformations, periodontitis, dental infections, bone cysts and tumors, or even missing teeth over a long period of time can cause jawbone atrophy or resorption.

This often results in poor bone quality and quantity suitable for dental implants, as well as long-term displacement of remaining teeth and changes in facial structure. Most patients in these situations with bone loss are not candidates for dental implants.

Performing a bone graft on the affected area not only makes it possible to place implants of the appropriate length and width to replace missing teeth, but also provides an opportunity to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance with long-term fixed teeth.

Many patients who wish to receive dental implants or other tooth replacement treatments require bone grafting.

The first step is a preoperative consultation with Dr. Arnaud to assess the height and width of the bone available on the tooth to be replaced, as well as the condition of the gums. The consultation is always supplemented by a bone scan.

The second step is the surgical procedure to place the dental implant in the patient’s bone, followed by a healing period of between two and three months.

The third step involves creating the crown on the implant, which is carried out by your general dentist. They will take an impression, which will be used by a dental technician to manufacture the ceramic tooth before it is fixed onto the dental implant by your dentist.

If local anesthesia is chosen during the preoperative consultation, Dr. Arnaud will administer local anesthesia to the area during the procedure.
The implant is then placed after painless bone preparation, stitches are applied, and a control X-ray is taken.
The patient is seen again after 7 days to remove the stitches and after 2 months to check the stability of the implant before the crown can be fitted by their dentist.

The cost of dental implants is not covered by basic insurance (LaMal) except in cases of specific illnesses.

In the event of an accident, accident insurance (LAA) rarely covers dental implants. To find out, a request must be made and reviewed with the medical advisor and Dr. Arnaud.

Otherwise, supplementary dental insurance policies generally cover a portion (a percentage or an annual amount) of the total cost.

You must be over 20 years old, as your teeth and jaws must have finished growing and developing. Children with congenitally missing teeth will therefore have to wait until this age before they can benefit from implant treatment.

If you are missing a tooth surrounded by other teeth, there are three options for replacing it:
– a removable denture that attaches to the other teeth with clasps
– a dental bridge, which involves shaping the teeth (preparing them to a point) before cementing ceramic teeth onto them (3 teeth attached)
The first two options can only be performed by your dentist.
– The third option involves inserting a titanium or ceramic screw into the jawbone (dental implant) to hold a ceramic tooth in place without affecting the other teeth. This treatment is performed by an oral surgeon for the dental implant (screw) and by your dentist for the crown on the implant.

Dental implants are mainly made from two primary materials:

– Titanium: Titanium is the most commonly used material for dental implants due to its exceptional biocompatibility. It integrates easily with bone (osseointegration process) and is corrosion resistant. In oral implantology, the standard is grade 4 titanium, which is classified as “commercially pure” titanium.

– Zirconia: Zirconia implants are becoming increasingly popular, especially for people looking for a metal-free alternative. Zirconia is a white ceramic material, making it more aesthetic in certain areas, particularly for visible teeth. It is also biocompatible and resistant, although its use is less widespread than titanium. The purchase price of the dental implant is also higher.

Yes, tooth extraction and immediate implant placement is a procedure that involves removing a damaged tooth and replacing it with a dental implant during the same appointment. The patient does not have to wait for the bone to heal after tooth extraction (usually between 3 and 6 months). This method reduces treatment time and the number of procedures.

Osseointegration of the implant can take an additional three to six months, and the implants must not be disturbed during this period. Any movement or pressure could interfere with healing, delay the process, and even cause the implant to fail.

During the initial consultation, Dr. Arnaud will conduct a medical interview, clinical examinations, and X-rays/scans to determine whether implant treatment is feasible in your situation.

Health problems such as poorly controlled diabetes, treatments such as bisphosphonates, or even excessive smoking are contraindications for this type of treatment.

Facial fractures, congenital malformations, periodontitis, dental infections, bone cysts and tumors, or even missing teeth over a long period of time can cause jawbone atrophy or resorption.

This often results in poor bone quality and quantity suitable for dental implants, as well as long-term displacement of remaining teeth and changes in facial structure. Most patients in these situations with bone loss are not candidates for dental implants.

Performing a bone graft on the affected area not only makes it possible to place implants of the appropriate length and width to replace missing teeth, but also provides an opportunity to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance with fixed teeth rather than traditional dentures.

There are many types of bone graft procedures, most of which involve taking bone graft material and placing it in areas that lack the right quality or quantity of bone. Bone grafting is a common procedure for patients who are missing one or more teeth and whose jawbone volume has diminished over time. Bone graft material can come from several sources: animal, human, or the patient themselves.

These bone graft procedures are usually performed under local anesthesia, but some situations require general anesthesia depending on the extent of the graft.

Generally, after the procedure, typical postoperative effects such as swelling or bruising disappear within 3 to 5 days.

The bone then needs to be left to harden for several months. This depends on the origin of your bone graft: animal, human, or your own. Healing times can vary from 4 to 9 months depending on the type and volume of the bone graft performed. A bone scan will be performed to confirm whether or not the graft has integrated well with your bone.

Some materials can resorb over time. Not all materials available on the market can be used for the same reasons.

Animal bone and the patient’s own bone, for example, have very low resorption rates.

That is why, during your initial consultation, Dr. Arnaud will explain the differences between the available bone materials and existing techniques so that you can choose the best treatment that will last over time.

The price of a bone graft can vary by up to three times and is calculated according to several criteria during your consultation with Dr. Arnaud:

– depending on the materials used, the volume required, whether the graft is performed during or in a separate session from the placement of dental implants
– depending on the type of local or general anesthesia (requiring the presence of an FMH anesthesiologist)