Why is going to OFSA safer than staying at your general dentist’s office?

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By Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona | January 16, 2026

When people begin researching dental treatment, they often focus on the procedure itself rather than who is best qualified to perform it. Many patients are unfamiliar with the role of oral surgery specialists or with the differences between advanced surgical care and routine dental treatment. At Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona (OFSA), we believe that understanding these differences helps patients make informed decisions about their care and overall safety.

As board-certified oral surgeons serving Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale, our focus is on advanced procedures involving the teeth, jaws, face, and supporting structures. Certain treatments require specialized training and surgical experience beyond general dentistry. Knowing when to seek care from our surgeons can improve safety, comfort, and long-term outcomes.

What Is an Oral Surgery Specialist and Why Does It Matter?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dental professionals who complete several additional years of hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after dental school. This training prepares our surgeons to manage complex conditions involving bone, nerves, facial anatomy, and the airway.

While general dentists provide essential preventive and restorative care, surgical specialists are trained for procedures that require advanced surgical planning and expertise. At our office, both Dr. Golding and Dr. Sabol are board-certified, reflecting advanced education, extensive clinical experience, and a commitment to the highest standards of patient care.

Why Some Dental Procedures Are Safer With Surgical Specialists

Certain dental treatments involve more than just teeth. Procedures such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implant placement, and corrective jaw surgery require careful management of bone, nerves, sinuses, and facial structures.

Our surgeons are trained to:

  • Evaluate complex anatomy
  • Plan surgical procedures with precision
  • Manage potential risks before they arise
  • Provide advanced anesthesia and patient monitoring
  • Adapt treatment plans to individual health needs

This level of preparation improves safety and predictability, especially for patients undergoing advanced oral surgery.

Surgical Services We Provide

Oral surgery is our primary focus. We provide comprehensive surgical care centered on safety, precision, and long-term outcomes. Our services include:

  • Wisdom teeth removal
  • Dental implant placement
  • All-on-4® dental implants
  • Zygomatic implants for patients with significant bone loss
  • Advanced bone grafting procedures
  • Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery)
  • Facial trauma reconstruction

Each treatment plan is carefully developed to prioritize patient safety, comfort, and long-term function.

Sedation Options for Safety and Comfort

Feeling comfortable during oral surgery is a crucial aspect of patient safety. At our practice, we offer several sedation options to help patients stay relaxed while our team maintains strict monitoring and safety protocols throughout every procedure.

Sedation can be especially helpful for patients with dental anxiety and for those undergoing longer or more complex procedures. It also enables our team to closely monitor patients with specific medical conditions during treatment.

Experience and Focused Surgical Care

Experience plays an important role in surgical outcomes. This is because our surgeons perform complex procedures on a daily basis; they develop the ability to recognize anatomical variations, anticipate challenges, and plan treatment with precision.

Dr. Sabol has extensive experience in dental implant placement, including the Teeth in a Day technique, corrective skeletal jaw surgery, wisdom teeth removal, patient anesthesia, maxillofacial trauma care, and surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. His expertise allows him to manage both functional and surgical complexities with careful attention to patient safety.

Dr. Golding performs all aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgery, with specialized experience in All-on-4® dental implants, advanced bone grafting techniques, dental implant placement, wisdom teeth removal, orthognathic jaw surgery, and facial cosmetic surgery. His approach focuses on restoring function, stability, and long-term results.

Together, our board-certified surgical team provides comprehensive, specialized care for patients in Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale.

Working Alongside Your General Dentist

Visiting a surgical specialist does not replace your general dentist. Our surgeons collaborate with dentists to provide specialized care when needed. Many patients are referred to us, while others seek a consultation on their own. Our goal is always to support comprehensive care and positive outcomes.

A Safer Setting for Surgery

From consultation to recovery, safety is built into every step of care at our practice. Our Phoenix and Tempe offices are specifically designed for surgical procedures, and our team is trained to support patients throughout the entire treatment process, from pre-operative care to post-operative recovery.

We focus on:

  • Thorough evaluations
  • Clear communication
  • Personalized treatment planning
  • Compassionate patient care

Experience Care You Can Feel Confident In

When advanced dental surgery is recommended, understanding who provides that care is just as important as understanding the procedure itself. Choosing experienced surgical specialists ensures treatment is performed with a focus on safety and long-term success.

If you need oral surgery or would like a second opinion, we invite you to contact us at any of the numbers below. Our team looks forward to helping you take the next step with confidence.

Phoenix Office Phone: (602) 899-8127.

Tempe Office Phone: (602) 900-9874.

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