Dr. Clark – Scheduling and Clinical Preferences

1. Referral and X-rays
   - Referrals are required for all patients except for third molars.
   - Our team will contact the referring dentist to obtain the referral and panorex.
   - If the panorex is not received, we can obtain it. It must be labeled with the patient’s name and orientation (R/L).
   - Periapical x-rays (PAs) are not acceptable for an oral surgery exam.
2. Insurance Participation
   - Dental: In-network with the same dental insurance plans as other providers.
   - Medical: Not in-network with any medical insurance plans.
3. Post-Operative Care
   - Syringes: Provided for wisdom teeth extraction patients. Instructions specify not to use the syringe until 1 week post-op.
   - Ice Packs: Yes, branded ice packs or holders are preferred.
   - Post-op Appointments: Routine follow-ups for extractions and third molars are not scheduled. Pathology follow-ups are scheduled two weeks post-op.
4. Special Accommodations
   - Patients with health issues or special needs will be seen for a consultation to arrange appropriate care. Allow extra time when scheduling.
5. Patient Age and Cancellation Policy
   - No age restriction for patients.
   - Cancellation Policy: For referred cases (especially pathology), staff must attempt contact 3 times before returning the referral with a letter.
6. Appointment Scheduling
   - Surgery: Preferably in the morning.
   - Consults: Preferably in the afternoon.
   - Any appointment can be added to an open surgery slot if staffing allows.
   - Same-day scheduling is allowed for healthy patients (ASA 1–2).
   - Double booking is allowed with adequate staffing.
7. Consultation Validity
   - Consultations are valid for 6 months to 1 year.
   - Patients must answer:
     1. Any changes in health, hospitalizations, or procedures?
     2. Any recent dental/specialist visits?
     - If "yes" to either, a reevaluation is required prior to surgery.
8. Clinical Preferences
   - NPO Guidelines: 6+ hours for food/beverage, 2+ hours for clear liquids.
   - Implant Process:
     1. Bone graft – 3 months
     2. Scan & plan – 3 weeks before surgery
     3. Implant release – 3 months post-placement
   - Implant System: Prefers Nobel but can accommodate others.
9. Post-Op Concerns & Calls
   - Dry Socket: Assess vitals, panorex, flush, apply preferred paste.
   - Bleeding: Reassure, instruct pressure with gauze/tea bags for 2–3 hours, follow-up if persistent.
   - Pain: Triage for emergencies, reassure, offer follow-up if needed.
   - Med Refills:
     - Non-narcotic: Refill
     - Routine: Refill
     - Others: Require follow-up
10. Scheduling & Operational Notes
    - Schedulers can answer basic post-op questions per written guidelines.
    - Implant same-day placement may be determined during the consult.
    - Ortho Procedures: Yes; time and systems will be discussed at the consult.
    - Inmates: Will be seen at the end of morning or day post-production.
    - Electronic Prescriptions: Sent no later than 48 hours before surgery.
    - Medical Clearance: Required for ASA 3–4 patients prior to sedation.