If you are contemplating the prospect of getting dental implants to replace your lost teeth, you have an exciting journey in front of you! But how can you get started toward rebuilding your smile? First, you must attend a consultation with a qualified implant dentist. In this blog post, you will get an overview of what you can expect to happen during this important appointment.
A Comprehensive Oral Examination
During your dental implant consultation, your dentist will conduct a thorough oral examination. This step is essential to evaluate the overall health of your mouth and ensure that you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will check for issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and any other abnormalities that might affect your tooth replacement journey.
You can also expect to answer questions about your medical history. Things like diabetes, bone conditions, and autoimmune disorders could all affect your dental implant treatment, so you should be sure to disclose them to your dental team.
Advanced Imaging Techniques
You can expect some images to be taken during your consultation. These images provide a detailed look at the internal structures of your mouth, which is necessary for planning your implant placement and determining if your jawbone is able to support prosthetic teeth.
Common imaging methods include X-rays and CBCT scans. X-rays help your dentist assess the density and quality of your jawbone, while CBCT scans provide three-dimensional images of your oral anatomy. These visuals allow your dentist to determine the ideal location and angle for each implant.
The scanning process is typically quick and painless, and your dentist will be able to access the digital images right away.
A Consultation About Your Treatment Plan
Once the examination and imaging are complete, your dentist will discuss your personalized treatment plan with you. This is a critical step, as it gives you an opportunity to understand what the process will involve and allows your dentist to address any questions or concerns you might have. Topics that may be covered include:
- The number of implants you will need.
- The type of implants that are best for your situation.
- The timeline for your procedure.
- The cost of the treatment and payment options.
- Any preparatory procedures, such as bone grafting, that might be required.
Your dentist will explain each step of the treatment and ensure that you feel confident about moving forward. They may also provide advice on post-procedure care and discuss how dental implants can benefit your oral health and overall well-being.
You have every reason to be excited about your dental implant consultation! Call your local care provider if you have questions about what to expect during this appointment.
Meet the Practice
At United Dental Centers of Whiting, we have an on-staff specialist who places dental implants; we can handle every part of your tooth replacement journey! If you are interested in rebuilding your lost teeth, we are eager to welcome you in for a consultation. Contact our office at 219-659-4900.