Free Consultation for Dental Implants
Many doctors offer a free consultation for dental implants. During this appointment, your doctor will review your medical history, assess your oral health, and determine whether you would require any preparatory procedures prior to placing your implants. After evaluating your needs and goals, the doctor can provide a detailed treatment timeline and estimate for the cost of your care. You should be provided with all the information you need to determine whether implants are right for you. While dental implants require lengthier treatment and a more substantial investment than other restorative options, your dentist will also discuss the unparalleled benefits they offer over conventional restorations.
The dentist can assess your teeth and gums to determine your candidacy for treatment.
Evaluating Your Candidacy
During your complimentary consultation, your doctor will conduct a series of evaluations to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Medical History
Advancements in the management of systemic diseases have helped make dental implants available to an even larger number of patients. However, there are certain conditions that have been known to negatively affect the healing process and success of implants:
- Osteoporosis
- Cancer therapy or radiation treatment
- Diabetes
- Cardiac conditions
- History of stroke
In diabetic patients, controlling blood sugar levels during treatment can minimize the risk of implant failure.
Your dentist will thoroughly review your medical history to determine whether you are healthy enough to undergo surgery. It is also important to provide a full list of the medications you are currently taking.
A complimentary consultation can provide a comfortable, stress-free environment for you to learn more about implants, their benefits, and your eligibility for treatment.
Oral Health
During your visit, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive oral examination. An assessment of your remaining teeth will determine whether any extractions are necessary. Your dentist will also evaluate your periodontal health and check for signs of gum recession or pockets. If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, you will first need to undergo treatment. Gum disease can lead to peri-implantitis and implant loss if left untreated.
Bone Density
In order to support the dental implants and promote osseointegration, your jawbone should be structurally strong. Your dentist may take x-rays or perform advanced 3-D imaging during your consultation to assess the quantity and quality of your bone. If you have jawbone loss due to missing teeth or other factors, you may require preparatory procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift surgery. A study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information concluded that dental implants placed in grafted tissue were equally successful when compared to implants placed in non-augmented bone tissue.
X-rays can reveal underlying concerns affecting the teeth and jaw.
Reviewing Your Treatment Plan
After evaluating your medical history, oral health, and bone health, your dentist can present you with a proposed treatment plan and summary of estimated costs. Depending on the complexity of your case and whether you require preparatory procedures, your treatment can typically be completed in four months to a year. Most patients can receive permanent crowns, bridges, or dentures after approximately four to six months following implant surgery.
The overall cost of your treatment will depend on several factors including the number of posts and type of restoration you choose. If you are replacing a single tooth, the costs will obviously be much lower than if you are replacing a full dental arch. Patients who are nervous about oral surgery or have an especially complex case may also choose to receive sedation during their procedure, which can raise the overall cost. Since implant-supported restorations often result in substantial out-of-pocket costs, many doctors accept financing through third-party lenders.
Discussing the Benefits of Dental Implants
Understanding the benefits of dental implants is integral to make an informed decision regarding your restorative care. Dental implants offer several benefits over their conventional counterparts including:
- Provide vital stimulation to the jaw to maintain dense, healthy bone
- Can last for a lifetime with proper care
- Unparalleled stability and security for restorations
- Maintain a more youthful appearance
Thanks to advancements in techniques and technology, dental implants can be placed with minimal discomfort and boast a very high success rate. A complimentary consultation can provide a comfortable, stress-free environment for you to learn more about implants, their benefits, and your eligibility for treatment.
“Maintaining your oral health can help you improve your overall health and enhance your quality of life.” Dr. Edward J. Zuckerberg
“Maintaining your oral health can help you improve your overall health and enhance your quality of life.” Dr. Edward J. Zuckerberg