Questions To Ask an Implant Dentist

If you are considering implants, a consultation with an implant dentist is a great idea. This article outlines questions to ask your implant dentist before deciding on treatment. This consultation visit allows the patient to learn more about treatment and ask any questions they may have.

What should I ask during a consultation with an implant dentist?

You can help determine whether an implant dentistry procedure is right for you by learning more about what an implant dentist does, the benefits of treatment, and whether or not you are an ideal candidate. The following provides a general answer to each question, although discussing treatment in greater detail with an implant dentist is recommended.

What is an implant dentist?

An implant dentist is a dental professional that offers dental implant restorations. They typically provide additional diagnostic, preventive, and restorative services, and they may also offer alternative teeth replacement options. An implant dentist also prioritizes providing patients with the best possible experience as it pertains to implant dentistry. They can guide the patient through the procedure, addressing any concerns they may have along the way.

What are the pros and cons of implant dentistry?

Dental implant restorations restore the patient’s smile, oral health, and ability to function daily to an optimal level. Unlike removable dentures and fixed bridges, they preserve jawbone density as well. They are also permanent, and the patient can care for their restoration with implant dentistry the same as they do their natural teeth.

However, the higher quality and more extensive process come at a higher cost. In addition, the process takes much longer with implant dentistry than with removable dentures or fixed traditional bridges. There is also a surgical procedure involved to place the dental implants.

Am I a good candidate for treatment?

Implant dentistry may be right for you if you have one or more missing teeth and want the most natural-looking and feeling replacement solution. Implant dentists can replace one tooth, a section of teeth, or an entire row of teeth with implant dentistry. However, keep in mind that the process is more extensive than what is required for removable dentures, so the patient should be willing and able to go through a long process with more procedures.

How long will the implant dentistry process take?

As mentioned, the implant dentistry process takes longer than alternative options. The time it takes depends on various factors, such as whether a bone graft is necessary and how long it takes for osseointegration (the fusing of the implant with the jawbone) to occur. On average, the implant process takes between six and eight months. Depending on the specifics of the treatment plan, it is not uncommon for treatment to take closer to a year. The implant dentist can help the patient ensure a nice smile and good oral health while waiting for their permanent implant-supported restorations.

How can I prepare for an implant placement procedure?

While there may be several steps before the placement of the dental implants, it can help calm any anxieties you have about the placement procedure by learning more about it and how to properly prepare. Sedation is almost always used for implant placement procedures, which are considered a form of oral surgery.

Consequently, dentists typically recommend arranging for a ride to and from the dental office on the day of the procedure. It is also important to follow dietary requirements before the procedure, such as not eating up to 12 hours before. Since it can take some time to recover, it can also help to prepare soft foods and water in advance.

What is the recovery process like after implant placement?

As mentioned, it can take several days to more than a week for the affected area to recover after implant placement. It can also take multiple months for osseointegration to take place, which is an important process to help avoid implant failure. While recovering, the patient may benefit from anti-inflammatory medication and a clean diet that does not involve an excess of sugar; smoking and tobacco use should also be avoided to help ensure the affected area is not irritated.

Ready to schedule a consultation with an implant dentist?

If you are interested in implant dentistry for an improved smile after tooth loss and want to learn more about how it can benefit you, contact us today to schedule a visit. We are more than happy to answer any of your questions.

Request an appointment here: https://www.diamondheaddentalcare.com or call Diamond Head Dental Care at (808) 450-2101 for an appointment in our Honolulu office.

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