If you’ve been considering dental implants and are ready to schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss treatment, there’s a lot to look forward to! After all, the journey to a restored smile is a very rewarding experience. But for patients who don’t know what to will happen, it can sometimes be overwhelming. Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from taking this important step for your oral health. Here’s what you can expect at your dental implant consultation!
Why do I need a Dental Implant Consultation?
A dental implant consultation is an important first step towards restoring your smile, and an excellent opportunity for your dentist to go over all the details of this dynamic treatment. In addition to examining your smile and evaluating your health, your dentist can also answer your questions about any aspect of the procedure, from payments to how long your prosthetics will last!
Oral Health Discussion
The first part of your dental implant consultation is a discussion of your oral health. Here your dentist will provide the opportunity for you to voice any concerns, as well as ask you questions about your lifestyle and any medical conditions you may have that could affect your oral health and implant success.
Oral Examination
Next, your dentist will examine your mouth and check for any abnormalities that could disqualify you from treatment, such as severe gum disease, oral abscesses, or other problems. Frequently these can be corrected, and you can still get dental implants once they have been addressed.
Imaging
Following your conversation and initial exam, your dental team will take images of your mouth. This will help get a better understanding of your oral health condition, and if you require any pre-treatments.
Jawbone Evaluation
Now that your images are ready, your dentist can evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine whether it is strong enough to withstand this treatment. If not, you may need a bone graft first, or your dental implants will be at a higher risk of failure.
Discussion of Treatment and Timeline
Next your dentist will discuss exactly what is required for you to get dental implants, including any pre-treatments and lifestyle changes. He will also go over the timeline for treatment, so you have a better idea of when you can expect to be enjoying your new smile, and the reasons the process takes as long as it does.
Cost Breakdown
Your dental team can now go over the costs associated with your treatment. While most dental insurance plans won’t cover your dental implants, they may cover a portion of treatment or pre-treatment. It is important to note that all dental insurance plans are different, and yours may cover more or less than others. Your dental team can verify your coverage and help you understand each cost, line by line.
Pre-Treatment Instructions
Finally, once you have signed on the dotted line, you are ready to begin your dental implant treatment. Your dentist will provide you with a list of guidelines to follow prior to your procedure, which may include things like quitting smoking or scheduling appointments for pre-treatments like sinus lifts, bone grafts, or tooth extractions.
Remember, your dental implant consultation is a fact-finding mission that helps you and your dentist cultivate a better understanding of what to expect during treatment. It is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns, and learn more about dental implants, so schedule yours today and get on the road to a healthier smile!
About Our Practice
At 325 Dentistry, Dr. Robert Hawley and Dr. Jonathan Hawley are the father-son dental duo who are honored to help restore your smile with the help of dental implants. Both dentists have the distinct honor of being the only prosthodontists in Abilene, making them an excellent choice for a treatment as important as this! We are proud to provide your complete treatment in-house using the latest dental technology for improved precision and durable, long-lasting results.
To learn more about the benefits of dental implants, schedule your own consultation with us today, and take the first step on your journey to a healthier smile! Visit our website to book or call us directly at 325-692-0565.