Question 1

What’s the difference between an oral surgeon and a dentist?

Accepted Answer

The team at Central Queensland Oral Surgery are oral surgeons, meaning they have completed training as a dentist and a medical doctor, as well as additional study and residency specialising in procedures and patients who have issues or injuries in the mouth, teeth, jaw and associated structures.
Dentists take in a much broader scope of practice and aren’t required to undergo the full scope of oral surgery training.

Question 2

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

As a specialist oral surgery practice, we often receive referrals from dentists, orthodontists, other dental specialists, GPs, medical specialists and other healthcare providers.
However, a referral isn’t always necessary (e.g. wisdom tooth removal). If you believe you need our services, please contact us.

Question 3

How much will dental surgery cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of treatment can vary a lot, depending on your individual situation. Before proceeding with surgery, you’ll have a consultation with us to discuss your treatment and any costs. We’ll always provide a quote to give you the full picture.

Question 4

Where will I have my surgery?

Accepted Answer

The Central Queensland Oral Surgery team meet all patients at our Bolsover Street surgery for consultations. After deciding on your sedation or pain management plan, your procedure can either be performed at the surgery or under general anaesthesia at Hillcrest Rockhampton Private Hospital or Mater Hospital Rockhampton.

Question 5

Is there parking available at the surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have three parking bays and one disabled parking space in front of the Central Queensland Oral Surgery premises. There is also plenty of parking available on the street nearby.

Question 6

Can I have my initial consultation and treatment during the same appointment?

Accepted Answer

In some circumstances it might be possible to combine a consultation and treatment into the same appointment. This depends on your procedure, your general health, any medications you’re taking, and your pain relief requirements. Please discuss this with reception when you book your appointment.

Question 7

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

Please bring your referral letter (if you have one), as well as any x-rays that have already been taken. You will also need your Medicare card and any private health membership information that you have, as well as any other paperwork relating to health cover.

Question 8

What is the difference between anaesthesia and sedation? Which can I expect?

Accepted Answer

There are three main ways that we manage dental surgery – general anaesthesia, local anaesthesia(only) and local anaesthesia with oral sedation.
Local Anaesthesia
Treatment under local anaesthesia is performed at our surgery. You will be fully awake, with a small injection into the area of the procedure stopping your nerves from feeling pain. This is similar to treatment at your local dentist.
General Anaesthesia
Treatment under general anaesthesia is performed in a hospital theatre. You will not be conscious during the procedure, and the anaesthesia is administered by a specialist anaesthetist.
Sedation (This is rarely required)
Treatment under sedation will typically be performed at our surgery. If applicable, an oral sedative may be prescribed to be taken by mouth prior to the procedure.

Question 9

Do all surgical procedures require general anaesthetic?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily – but we will discuss pain management during your initial consultation appointment.

Central Queensland Oral Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions