Considering dental implants as your tooth replacement option of choice? Great idea! Implants are one of the most reliable ways to restore your smile. But before any treatment begins, you’ll need to start with a consultation. But if you’re wondering what a consultation looks like, keep reading. This guide walks you through everything that happens at your dental implant consultation so you can feel prepared and confident.
A Warm Welcome and a Good Discussion
The consultation usually starts with a greeting from the dental team and a quick review of your medical and dental history. You might fill out forms or go over any medications you take. This helps your dentist get a full picture of your health and make sure implants are the right choice for you.
A Comprehensive Exam
Next comes the exam. Your dentist will check the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw. They’re looking for things like bone density and gum health, which are two important factors for successful implants.
They may also take X-rays or 3D scans of your mouth. These images help map out where the implant would go and make sure everything looks safe and stable.
A Walkthrough of Your Options
Once your exam is complete, your dentist will talk with you about the findings. If you’re a good candidate, they’ll walk you through the next steps, like how the surgery works, how long it will take to heal, and what to expect in terms of cost.
If you’re not quite ready for implants yet due to some issues, don’t worry. Your dentist will talk to you about preparatory options, like bone grafting or gum treatment, to get you to the green light.
A Time for Questions and Answers
This visit is your chance to ask anything you want about the process. If you’re not sure what to ask, here are some common questions to get you thinking:
- “How long will the whole process take?”
- “Will I be without teeth at any point?”
- “Does it hurt?”
Your dentist will answer everything clearly, without pressure or confusing lingo. Of course, if you need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask for it!
A consultation isn’t a commitment. It’s just a way to gather information and decide what’s best for your smile. Whether you move forward or not, you’ve taken a huge step by exploring your options. If you’re ready to dive in, the hardest part (starting) is nearly behind you!
About the Author
Dr. Ashley Civetti is a dedicated dentist who loves helping her patients create confident, healthy smiles with advanced treatments like dental implants. A graduate of the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston, she pursues advanced training through the Kois Center and local study clubs. Through them, she improves her skills to provide expert guidance during consultations for dental implants and beyond. Call (561) 798-4200 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Pearl Palm Beach Dental or visit our website to explore other services.