Surgical Center: Patient Information
At Austin Institute of Dental Medicine Surgical Center, we understand that the prospect of oral surgery can be concerning for many patients. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional care in a comfortable, safe environment, with a focus on making your surgical experience as positive as possible.
What to Expect
Understanding the process helps reduce anxiety and ensures you’re well-prepared for your procedure. Here’s what you can expect when having surgery at our center:
Pre-Operative & Post-Operative Instructions
Clear instructions are vital for optimal surgical outcomes and recovery. Our comprehensive guidelines cover:
Pre-Operative Guidelines
Post-Operative Care
All instructions are provided in writing, reviewed verbally, and available through our patient portal. For complex procedures, we also provide procedure-specific videos demonstrating home care techniques.
Insurance & Billing
We strive to make the financial aspect of your surgical care as transparent and manageable as possible:
- Insurance Verification: We verify your benefits before your procedure and explain your expected out-of-pocket costs
- Multiple Coverage Types: We work with dental insurance, medical insurance, and Medicare depending on your procedure
- Separated Billing: You’ll receive separate statements for facility fees, surgeon fees, and anesthesia services
- Payment Options: We offer various payment methods and financing plans through CareCredit and Lending Club
- Financial Counseling: Our billing specialists are available to answer questions and help resolve any issues
- Cost Estimates: Detailed estimates provided before your procedure with no hidden fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Our patients often have similar questions about surgical center procedures:
What’s the difference between having surgery at the Surgical Center versus a regular dental office?
Our surgical center offers a higher level of care for more complex procedures, including advanced monitoring equipment, a wider range of anesthesia options, specialized surgical equipment, and a team of professionals focused exclusively on surgical care. The environment is specifically designed for procedures that require more extensive setup, longer operating times, or deeper sedation than what’s typically available in a general dental office.
How should I prepare for anesthesia or sedation?
Preparation varies based on the type of anesthesia you’ll receive. For most types of sedation and general anesthesia, you’ll need to fast (no food or drink) for a specific period before surgery: typically 6–8 hours for food and 2–4 hours for clear liquids. You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with short sleeves to allow for IV access and monitoring equipment. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours after sedation.
What safety measures are in place at the Surgical Center?
Patient safety is our highest priority. Our center features continuous monitoring of vital signs during procedures, advanced emergency equipment and medications, staff certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), rigorous infection control protocols exceeding industry standards, and comprehensive emergency response plans. The facility is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), demonstrating our commitment to meeting the highest standards of patient care.
