When it comes to replacing missing teeth, few options are as exceptional as dental implants. Upon receiving them, the look, feel, and functionality of a patient’s smile is fully restored, and their quality of life is noticeably improved. That said, the first step towards getting dental implants is visiting your dentist for a consultation—it is a surgical procedure, after all! Here are five things you can expect during this appointment so that you can feel great about receiving implants.
1. Meeting the Team
Once you’ve arrived at your consultation, the very first thing you can expect to do is meet your dentist and their team—they’re the ones who will be guiding you throughout the dental implant process. Don’t be shy, and don’t hesitate to chat and get to know them a little bit; feeling comfortable and familiar with them will only ensure a smoother treatment process.
2. Preliminary Conversation
Of course, you’ll also have the chance to talk with your dentist about more relevant matters, such as your smile goals, oral habits, and eligibility for dental implants. Your dentist will need to review your medical records and history, past impressions, X-rays, and any other related materials that inform them about your smile. All of this information is critical for helping to determine not just your eligibility, but also the best course of action.
3. Oral Evaluation & Imaging
Not just anybody can handle dental implants, and your dentist will have to perform a thorough inspection of your mouth to ensure that implants are a viable option. This typically includes X-rays and 3D digital imaging—your dentist needs to take a very detailed look at your jawbone, soft tissues, and other oral structures that the naked eye can’t accurately assess. This examination also determines how many implants you’ll need and where they need to be placed.
4. Treatment Plan Discussion
After your dentist has inspected your mouth and approved you for implants, they will begin to review your initial treatment plan with you. They’ll cover things like:
- The estimated timeline for the entire process, including the healing period.
- Any necessary additional procedures or appointments (some patients need a supplemental bone graft or gum disease therapy before receiving implants).
- Local anesthesia and sedation options.
- Post-surgery expectations and guidelines.
5. Final Questions & Wrapping Up
You’ll have the opportunity to ask your dentist and their team any final questions you have at the end of your consultation. As a patient, you have the right to know exactly what your dentist will be doing, so speak up and put your doubts to rest! You can also ask your dentist to share before/after photos of patients who’ve received implants; dentists are often thrilled to show off their previous work, especially if it’ll offer you encouragement!
If you’re ready to replace your lost pearly whites in one of the best ways possible, don’t hesitate to talk with your dentist about scheduling a dental implant consultation.
About the Author
Dr. Robert G. Wiese received his dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has proudly served patients and families in the Sachse area for several years. His practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services including dental implants. If you have any questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, feel free to contact Dr. Wiese through his practice’s website or over the phone: (972) 414-7195.