Patient Guide
Introduction
Patient Guide
What Is An Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon?
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is the specialty of dentistry that is trained to manage surgical problems that occur in the head and neck, and specifically, problems that occur with the teeth, jaws and face. While our training begins in dentistry, it continues for 4 to 6 years after dental school and involves rotations through medicine, anesthesia, general surgery, and intensive care units. Some Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons will complete further education so that they become proficient in the care of more complex issues such as cleft lip and palate, head and neck cancer or esthetic facial surgery.
Patient Guide
Why See An Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon?
Your family dentist has referred you to our office. It is likely that this referral was made because your dentist feels that your care requires someone with specialty training. This may be due to the anticipated level of difficulty of your case or because of various medical issues that you may present with. In some cases, your family dentist just may not like performing surgery! Regardless of the reason, our office remains committed to meeting your surgical needs in both an effective and efficient manner. We are glad you are here!
Patient Guide
Background Information
Oral and maxillofacial surgery requires additional years of hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after graduation from dental school. As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. McCann manages a wide variety of problems relating to the mouth, teeth, and facial regions. Dr. McCann practices a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from dental implant surgery and wisdom tooth removal to corrective jaw surgery. This also includes techniques designed to rebuild bone structure with minimal surgical intervention and optimal patient comfort. We can also diagnose and treat facial pain, facial injuries, and fractures.
Our staff is trained in assisting with Intravenous (IV) sedation or outpatient general anesthesia in our state-of-the-art office setting. Patients are continuously monitored during and after surgery.
Patient Guide
Surgical Staff
Dr. McCann and his staff are well-trained to provide oral surgical care in the office setting. Registered Nurses (RNs) assist in providing both surgical and anesthesia procedures. We remain committed to continuing education in an effort to remain at the forefront in providing safe care in our office. The Administrative staff are likewise well-trained in various health and insurance policies and are always happy to facilitate your visit to our office.
Patient Guide
Surgical Facility
Our office has been inspected and licensed by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario to provide a full scope of anesthesia services which includes local anesthesia, moderate/deep sedation, and general anesthesia. Dr. McCann and/or Registered Nurses will be at your side from the moment you arrive in the operating room until you leave the office. Our recovery rooms offer a private environment for you to recover from your anesthetic and allow the nursing staff to review your post-operative care with your family member.
Patient FAQ
Questions About Introduction
Why might my dentist refer me to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
A dentist may refer a patient when treatment requires specialist surgical training, advanced imaging, anesthesia planning, or management of a more complex oral or jaw condition.
What does the Waterloo oral surgery office review before treatment?
The team reviews medical history, medications, allergies, referral notes, imaging, and the reason for the consultation before recommending treatment options.
Can I ask questions before booking oral surgery?
Yes. Patients can contact the Waterloo office to ask about referrals, consultation timing, forms, insurance questions, and how to prepare for a first visit.