Questions to Ask
Concrete queries that reveal experience volume and emergency preparedness—two pillars of clinical safety.
Frequency matters more than tenure. A surgeon placing ≥20 implants monthly demonstrates consistent volume, which correlates with proficiency and complication recognition. Ask for the last 30 days—not yearly averages—to catch seasonal lulls or rushed schedules. If they hesitate or give vague estimates, it may indicate infrequent practice or inconsistent caseloads. Volume alone isn’t enough, but it’s a measurable first filter before assessing quality.
Anesthesia complications can escalate rapidly—even with local blocks. A responsible surgeon has a named, credentialed backup: an anesthesiologist, oral surgeon, or emergency medicine provider on-call within minutes. Ask who specifically responds, where they’re located, and how quickly they can arrive. ‘We have protocols’ is insufficient. Request to meet the backup team or review their credentials during your tour. Your safety depends on this lifeline, not just the surgeon’s skill.
Follow-up questions reinforce preparedness: ‘Do you carry epinephrine 1:1000 in-office?’ and ‘When was your last ACLS certification?’ Providers who list these items unprompted show routine readiness. If the team looks uneasy, deflects, or says ‘it’s never happened here,’ walk away. Every implant case carries rare but serious risks—your surgeon’s answers should reflect honest, proactive planning, not complacency.
