What to Expect at Your Dental Implant Consultation

Are you ready to replace your missing teeth permanently? Dental implants may be the solution for you. As the only treatment to rebuild the entire tooth structure, a dental implant closely replicates your natural teeth. With over a 95% success rate and a potential lifespan of 30 years or more, they are a wise investment. Most people with good oral and general health are candidates for the procedure, but you’ll still require a dental implant consultation in Murphy. Here’s what you can expect during your first step to a complete smile. 

Dental Implant Consultation Process

A dental implant differs from traditional prosthetics because it replaces the root and crown. A titanium post is placed into the jawbone to support a custom-made restoration that’s attached using an abutment. Since the procedure is more complex than a traditional bridge or denture, the consultation process is thorough, which will include:

Oral Examination

Your implant dentist will conduct a visual examination of your mouth to assess your oral health. They’ll look for any signs of potential complications. They will also take the time to learn more about your medical history, including any medications. If you have certain pre-existing conditions, your dentist will take precautions to ensure the success of your treatment. Based on your initial examination, your dentist may recommend additional procedures, like tooth extractions, gum disease treatment, or bone grafting to create a healthy foundation for your new smile.

Diagnostic Imaging

Not all issues can be seen on the surface. Your dentist will also review X-rays and a CT scan of your mouth to look for any concerns that may not be visible to the naked eye, like bone loss. Besides ensuring you have adequate bone density, they’ll also use the images to plan your placement surgery. The highly detailed scans allow your dentist to pinpoint the exact locations for your posts to remove the guesswork from the process to minimize the risks of complications. 

Reviewing Your Treatment Plan

Your dentist will explain their findings and your treatment plan, which will include information about:

• Preparatory procedures
• Timeline
• Anesthetic and sedation options
• Recovery period
• Costs and payment options
• Aftercare instructions

Your dentist will answer all your questions and address any concerns, so you feel confident about the road ahead. 

Invest in the Best with Dental Implants

After any preparatory procedures are complete, the first step to replacing your missing teeth is your placement surgery. Once the posts are in place, your jawbone will fuse to them through a process called osseointegration, which can take several weeks. Abutments are put on each post after your mouth has healed to attach your restorations. 

With the right aftercare, your healthy, beautiful smile can last for decades. Don’t settle for anything less than the best. Contact your dentist to find out if dental implants in Murphy are right for you. 

About Dr. Jacqueline T. Nguyen 

Dr. Nguyen earned her dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry and regularly continues her education in advanced services, like orthodontics and dental implants. As a member of the American Dental Association, she has a reputation you can trust. Contact our office today to request your consultation for dental implants.