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Are you ready to treat your tooth loss for good? Dental implants are the solution for you. They have over a 95% success rate and are proven to last for 30 years or more with the right care, like brushing and flossing. Not to mention, a dental implant replaces the entire tooth structure for a solution that looks and feels natural. However, the process won’t happen overnight. Dental implants require a multi-step treatment process, which begins with your consultation. Here’s what you can expect during your dental implant consultation.
Oral Examination
Your dental team will learn more about your health history, including any medications you’re taking to look for any potential risk factors. Your implant dentist will examine your mouth and learn more about your situation. They’ll look for anything concerning, like gum inflammation, decay, or other issues that must be addressed before moving forward.
Digital Imaging
Your dental team will take an X-ray of your mouth for your dentist to review. They will also take a CT scan, which allows your dentist to see every detail of your mouth and oral structures. They’ll use the scans to determine if there are any issues not visible to the naked eye. The scans will also be used for treatment planning, like dental implant placement.
Discuss Treatment Plan
After reviewing all the information gathered during your consultation, your dentist will create a personalized strategy to replace your lost teeth. If you’re a candidate for dental implants, you can expect the process to include:
- Preliminary Procedures: It’s not unusual to require a little prep work, like tooth extractions, gum disease therapy, or bone grafting.
- Implant Placement: After you’ve healed from any preliminary procedures, you’ll be scheduled for your placement surgery. Sedation or anesthesia will be used to keep you comfortable as titanium posts are surgically placed into your jawbone.
- Abutments: Once your jawbone has healed, you’ll require a second minor surgery to place abutments on each implant post. Your dentist will also take impressions to create your restoration.
- Restoration: In a couple of weeks, you’ll receive your new restoration, which will be attached to the abutments.
Review Financial Options
Your dental team will review your financial options to keep dental implants affordable. Your dental insurance may cover some of the expenses for your consultation, diagnostic services, and preliminary procedures. After meeting your annual deductible, your insurance may pay a portion of the cost for your restoration.
Many dental practices also accept CareCredit. You can pay any out-of-pocket expenses using a monthly payment plan. Based on your credit approval, you can benefit from little or no interest in financing. At the end of your consultation, you’ll be one step closer to having a complete, beautiful smile.
About Dr. Aliza Hanif
Dr. Hanif earned her dental degree from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine and has regularly pursued continuing education in various specialties, including dental implants. She creates personalized treatment plans to help each patient achieve their best smile. Contact her office at (508) 452-6302 to schedule your consultation.