Patient Information

Background Information

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery requires a minimum of 4 years of full-time hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after graduation from dental school. As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Dr. Henry and Dr. Bellamy manage a wide variety of problems relating to the mouth, teeth and facial regions. Dr. Henry and Dr. Bellamy practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from Dental Implant Surgery and Wisdom Tooth Removal to Facial Trauma. This also includes techniques designed to rebuild bone structure with minimal surgical intervention and optimal patient comfort.

The surgical staff at North Fraser Oral Surgery include experienced certified oral and maxillofacial surgical assistants and specially trained RNs (registered nurses) who assist in the administration of I.V. sedation and with post-surgical recovery. In addition to Dr. Henry and Dr. Bellamy, there are also several certified medical anesthesiologists who provide anesthesia in the office.

Anesthesia

Our office takes pride in providing you with a comfortable and safe experience. During your consultation appointment your surgeon will review various anesthetic options with you. Our surgical office is fully accredited by our provincial dental regulatory body (College of Dental Surgeons of B.C.) to safely provide intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. To maintain accreditation, our facility is regularly inspected and must follow guidelines and protocols for patient safety and emergency management.

Undergoing surgical treatment in our office is similar to having your surgery in a hospital setting, but with some important differences. Most patients find the office environment much more personal and less stressful. In most cases, the anesthetic techniques we use allow for a quicker recovery after surgery, as well as a decreased likelihood for nausea. The equipment used to monitor patients under anesthesia is very similar to that used in a hospital.

On the day of your surgery you will be escorted into the surgical suite, where an intravenous line will be inserted by either your nurse or your surgeon. You are also given oxygen via small plastic cannulae, which rest comfortably under your nose. Once you are “sleeping”, a local anesthetic is administered so that you are “numb” and comfortable after surgery. After your surgery is complete, you will gradually “wake up” while being carefully monitored by your nurse or trained surgical recovery assistant. Once you are ready to go home, you and your escort will be given full verbal and written instructions along with a medication prescription if needed.