Forest Hills oral surgeon highlights why discipline, education, and informed patients matter more than ever

FOREST HILLS, NY / ACCESS Newswire / January 16, 2026 / Dr. David Tabaroki, oral and maxillofacial surgeon and owner of three New York-based practices, is raising awareness around the importance of rigorous surgical training and better patient understanding in modern oral healthcare.

Drawing on more than two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Tabaroki is calling attention to what he sees as growing gaps in preparation, both in how surgeons are trained and how patients approach complex oral surgery procedures.

"Oral and maxillofacial surgery leaves no room for shortcuts," Dr. Tabaroki said. "Outcomes depend on preparation, repetition, and the ability to make the right decision under pressure."

Why This Issue Matters

According to data from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, more than 10 million wisdom teeth are removed each year in the United States alone. Complication risk increases significantly when procedures are performed without adequate training, proper case selection, or clear patient communication.

In addition, studies show that patients who fully understand their treatment plan are up to 30 percent more likely to follow post-operative instructions, reducing the risk of infection, delayed healing, and emergency follow-up visits.

"Patients often underestimate how technical these procedures are," Dr. Tabaroki said. "Understanding the process improves outcomes on both sides."

The Role of Advanced Surgical Training

Dr. Tabaroki completed a four-year oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at Montefiore University Hospital, one of the most competitive programs in the country. He credits that training with shaping his approach to both surgery and leadership.

"That environment forces discipline," he said. "You learn how to think clearly when the stakes are high."

He believes that strong residency programs and ongoing education are essential as surgical techniques and technology continue to evolve.

"Medicine changes," Dr. Tabaroki added. "Surgeons have a responsibility to keep learning, not rely on how things were done years ago."

Patient Awareness Is Part of Safety

Beyond surgical training, Dr. Tabaroki emphasizes patient responsibility and education as key factors in safe care.

"Patients should feel comfortable asking questions," he said. "Understanding the procedure, recovery time, and risks helps them make better decisions."

Research supports this view. A 2023 healthcare communication study found that patients who reviewed treatment details in advance reported higher satisfaction and fewer post-procedure complications.

"An informed patient is a safer patient," Dr. Tabaroki noted.

What Individuals Can Do Today

Rather than calling for regulatory changes, Dr. Tabaroki encourages practical steps individuals can take on their own:

• Ask about a surgeon's training and experience

• Understand the full scope of a procedure before consenting

• Follow post-operative instructions carefully

• Prioritize preparation and recovery, not just scheduling convenience

"Good outcomes come from teamwork," he said. "That includes the surgeon and the patient."

A Long-Term View of Healthcare Quality

As the owner of Queens Blvd Oral Surgery, Jamaica Estates Oral Surgery, and Gramercy Dental Group, Dr. Tabaroki sees firsthand how consistent standards protect both patients and providers.

"Consistency builds trust," he said. "And trust is built over time, not through marketing."

He believes that reinforcing fundamentals, education, preparation, and accountability will improve care across the field.

"This is not about growth or exposure," Dr. Tabaroki said. "It's about doing the work the right way."

Call to Action

Dr. Tabaroki encourages patients and professionals alike to slow down, ask better questions, and prioritize preparation.

"Healthcare works best when everyone takes responsibility," he said. "That starts with understanding, not assumptions."

Media Contact:

Dr. David Tabaroki
info@drdavidtabaroki.com
https://www.drdavidtabaroki.com/

SOURCE: Dr. David Tabaroki