Compare 7 oral surgeons in Alta, IA. Check ratings, insurance, and availability.
The initial consultation includes X-rays or a CT scan, a physical exam of your mouth and jaw, and a discussion of your surgical options and anesthesia choices. The surgeon will explain the procedure, recovery timeline, and any risks. Most office procedures use IV sedation, meaning you will be comfortable but not fully unconscious.
You may need an oral surgeon for impacted wisdom teeth, teeth requiring surgical extraction, jaw misalignment causing functional problems, TMJ disorders that have not responded to other treatments, facial trauma or fractures, suspicious oral lesions requiring biopsy, or preparation for dental implants that need bone grafting.
Wisdom teeth (all four): $1,500-3,000 · Bone graft: $300-800 · Jaw surgery: $5,000-50,000+
Wisdom teeth that are trapped beneath the gum or bone require surgical extraction. Oral surgeons perform these procedures regularly, often under IV sedation for comfort.
Oral surgeons place dental implant posts and perform bone grafts when the jaw does not have enough volume to support an implant. They handle complex cases involving multiple missing teeth.
Severe jaw misalignment that braces alone cannot correct may require surgery to reposition the upper or lower jaw. Oral surgeons work with orthodontists to plan and execute these procedures.
Broken jaws, cheekbones, and eye sockets from accidents or injuries require surgical repair. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in reconstructing facial bones and soft tissue.
Unusual lumps, sores, or lesions in the mouth that do not heal need evaluation. Oral surgeons perform biopsies to determine whether growths are benign or require further treatment.
Oral surgery may be covered by dental insurance, medical insurance, or both, depending on the reason for the procedure. Wisdom teeth removal is usually dental. Jaw surgery for a medical condition (like sleep apnea) or facial trauma often falls under medical insurance. Ask the surgeon's office to verify coverage with both your dental and medical plans.