Will you be heading to your dental implant consultation soon? While it’s normal to feel a little nervous, the great news is that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Your appointment will be an exciting opportunity to learn how your dentist can help restore the appearance and function of your smile. Here’s what you can expect to happen.
Step One: Medical History
The first step to your dental implant consultation is a review of your oral and overall health. This is your opportunity to discuss your medical history, any medications you are taking (both prescription and OTC), pre-existing conditions, and oral health problems like gum disease, as some conditions could require preliminary treatment or disqualify you from eligibility for dental implants.
Step Two: Oral Health Exam
Next, your dentist will examine any remaining teeth and your gums, and check for any abnormalities such as oral cancer or gum disease. If anything out of the ordinary is discovered, your dentist will create a treatment plan to correct it.
Step Three: Images
Now that your dentist has observed your teeth and gums, your dental team can take some images of your mouth and jaw. These will be used to help your dentist get a better understanding of the condition of your teeth and bones, as well as if you require a bone graft or sinus lift prior to getting dental implants.
Step Four: Jawbone Examination
Once your images are reviewed, your dentist will take a closer look at your jawbone in person. If it is determined that a procedure like a sinus lift or bone graft will not be effective in providing adequate jawbone density for dental implants, your dentist may recommend a more suitable alternative such as a dental bridge or dentures.
Step Five: Treatment Plan
Now that your dentist has a complete picture of your mouth, it’s time to go over the details of your treatment plan, including any preliminary treatments, lifestyle changes, aftercare instructions and the timeline for the entire process.
Step Six: Cost Details
Now that you know what’s involved in your treatment, it’s time to discuss payment options. Though most dental insurance plans won’t fully fund your entire treatment, there are some portions that may be covered. Your dental team will go over this and explain any other financing options they accept.
Step Seven: Pre-Op Instructions
Once you’ve signed up to begin dental implant treatment, your dentist will provide you with preoperative instructions to ensure that your dental implants have the best odds possible to survive. These include actionable items like quitting smoking and dietary changes following your surgery.
Remember, your dental implant consultation is the first step in an exciting journey towards a healthier, more beautiful smile. In conjunction with your dentist and dental team, we wish you the best of luck on your way to improved oral health!
About Dr. Martin
Dr. Gregory Martin earned his undergraduate degree at Texas Wesleyan University. He began postgraduate studies at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington D.C., where he received the prestigious Restorative Dentistry Award both as a junior and senior. He was elected to Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU), a National Dental Honorary Fraternity and is a member of the Texas Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. To schedule a consultation for dental implants, please visit our website or call us today at 817-481-1041.