Are you contemplating the prospect of getting dental implants to replace your lost teeth? The first step on your journey to a renewed smile will be a consultation with your dentist; this appointment will be the launching point for the good things to come. But what should you expect during your consultation? This blog post provides a generalized preview of what might happen when you attend your appointment.
The Initial Conversation
When you arrive in the dental office, you will be greeted by the friendly staff. They might ask you to fill out some paperwork that details your medical history, your concerns about your oral health, and other relevant information. It is important that you are honest and straightforward about your habits and overall wellness; things like diabetes, smoking, and other health indicators could have an impact on your tooth replacement journey.
The Oral Examination
Your dental team will use advanced imaging equipment to take some images of your teeth and jawbone. Digital X-rays are painless, fast, and use a minimal amount of radiation. They will help your dental team understand the state of your remaining natural teeth and the bone structure that supports them.
You can also expect a visual examination of your mouth. With the help of a small mirror, a dental probe, and other instruments, your dental team will look for indications of gum disease, problems with your remaining natural teeth, and anything else that might be relevant to your dental implant treatment.
Treatment Planning
After your dentist has gathered important information, they can start mapping out the details of your treatment. They can tell you if you are a candidate for dental implants, if you will need preliminary procedures before your implant surgery, how long the tooth replacement process might take, and more. A member of their staff might also share some financial information with you.
Q&A
You should not hesitate to ask questions throughout your appointment. Remember, your dentist and their team members want you to feel confident about any treatment you commit to! Feel free to ask what the procedure will feel like, what you can expect during the recovery process, how your new teeth will function, or anything else that might be weighing on your mind.
Your dental implant consultation will serve as the first step on your way to a healthier, stronger smile. You can expect a positive experience that sets you up for a brighter future!
Meet the Practice
Dr. George Keanna is a highly experienced holistic dentist who partners with local oral surgeons to provide top-quality, start-to-finish dental implant care. If you have questions about tooth replacement, he and our team warmly invite you to visit us for a consultation. Contact our Albuquerque office at 505-292-8533.