Tooth loss is an unfortunately common problem, and many people out there are interested in restoring their smiles with dental implants. Dental implants are the finest tooth replacement treatment ever developed because they look and function just like real teeth. While they can be an excellent way for many patients to achieve a complete smile, it’s important to know what getting them entails so you know what to expect and how to take care of them. Here are a few excellent questions to ask at your dental implant consultation to help you make an informed decision.
Where Will the Surgery Take Place?
Dental implants must be surgically placed in the jawbone. This allows them to fuse with its bone structure through the natural process of osseointegration. Some dentists can perform the procedure themselves while others will refer the patient to an oral surgeon. When you’re at your dental implant consultation, it’s important to find out where the surgery will take place so you can know where you need to be and plan accordingly.
How Long Will It Take for Me to Get Dental Implants?
Depending on the patient’s needs, the process of receiving dental implants can take anywhere from several months to two years. Some patients may require prerequisite work such as periodontal treatments to clear up gum disease or bone grafts to reinforce their jawbone before the implants can be placed. Different patients also require different amounts of time to completely heal from the process, and health conditions such as diabetes can cause delays. Asking how long you can expect the process to take can help you understand the time commitment involved with receiving dental implants.
What Will the Recovery Be Like and What Aftercare Will I Need?
After dental implants are placed, they need time so the surgical site can heal and the jawbone can fuse with them. It’s important to ask what you can expect during this period so you can be prepared for any discomfort and have supplies ready for your aftercare. Knowing what your post-surgical instructions will be ahead of time can give you a much clearer picture of what you are getting into.
While dental implants can be an excellent way to replace lost teeth, you should take care to educate yourself as to what receiving them entails. By knowing the right questions to ask at your dental implant consultation, you can make an informed decision about the procedure and be prepared for the recovery.
About the Author
Dr. Brett Noorda earned his dental degree from the Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry and received the Larry E. Sorum Memorial Award for Excellence in Endodontics. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor afforded to only about seven percent of dentists. His office in Henderson, NV offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. To schedule a dental implant consultation, contact the office online or dial (702) 456-7403.