Missing one or more teeth can significantly impact your quality of life. Thanks to modern advancements in dentistry, you don’t have to live with gaps in your smile forever. Dental implants replace the entire structure of missing teeth, from the roots to the chewing surface, allowing you to enjoy a healthy and fully functioning bite again. Before moving forward with this treatment, you need to be well-informed. That said, here are five crucial questions to ask at your dental implant consultation to help you feel confident about your decision.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the most permanent and lifelike tooth-replacement option available. However, they’re not suitable for everyone. Your dentist will need to ensure you have a healthy jaw and gums to support the implants. During your consultation, they’ll evaluate your oral cavity, check your bone density, and ask about your lifestyle habits to determine your candidacy.
How Much Experience Do You Have with Dental Implants?
For a smooth and successful dental implant journey, it’s important to work with an experienced dentist. Don’t hesitate to ask about their qualifications and experience. A reputable implant dentist will be happy to share details about their background, providing you with the confidence that you’re receiving quality care.
What Does the Dental Implant Process Look Like?
Each dental practice has its own process for placing dental implants. Some can complete the entire procedure in-house, while others may refer you to an oral surgeon for certain steps. One of the first things you should do is find out if you’ll be working with multiple providers or seeing the same dentist from start to finish. Understanding the process will help you prepare for the journey ahead.
How Long Will the Entire Process Take?
It depends! The treatment timeline varies from patient to patient based on several factors. If preliminary procedures like bone grafting are needed, it may take longer to complete the process. The number of teeth being replaced can also affect the timeline. Additionally, after the implant placement, you’ll need to wait a few months for osseointegration to occur. This natural biological process where the implant fuses with the jawbone must be complete before the final restoration is attached.
What Is Recovery Like?
Before wrapping up the appointment, ask your implant dentist about the recovery process and how you can prepare for it. During your visit, you’ll receive aftercare instructions and tips to make healing as smooth as possible. Since there is a period between implant placement and the final attachment, you’ll likely be given a temporary denture to wear in the meantime.
About the Practice
At Long Family Dental, we’re passionate about giving patients the exceptional smiles they deserve. We specialize in efficiently and comfortably restoring missing teeth with state-of-the-art dental implant treatment. With convenient locations in Midlothian and Cleburne, we are always close by when you need us most. If you have questions about dental implants or need to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (972) 833-6307.