As one of the most effective and comprehensive ways to replace an entire tooth from the roots up, it’s understandable that you’ll want to know as much as possible about dental implants before getting them. That’s why it’s important to undergo an initial consultation with your dentist so that you can get the lay of the land. Which questions should you be asking them? Keep reading to get a few ideas on what you might consider discussing with your dentist.
How Much Will My Treatment Cost?
Although dental implants might be a cost-effective method for rebuilding your smile, the procedure does come at a higher upfront value compared to other restorative treatments. Be sure to ask your dentist if they offer various payment options to help make the process more manageable for you. This way you’ll know what to expect and you can focus more on improving your bite instead of your wallet.
What Are the Chances that My Procedure Will Be Successful?
You’ll be happy to know that dental implants often come with a success rate of 95% and above. This means you should be able to expect your treatment results to go smoothly as long as you take proper care of your smile following your surgery. Still, there’s a rare chance that dental implants can fail. Ask your dentist if you have certain risk factors and what you can do to minimize them. This could mean having to change certain things in your lifestyle, such as improving your diet or quitting tobacco products.
How Long Will the Procedure Take?
The exact timeframe of your treatment will be unique for every patient. In most cases, however, it should take about three to six months to complete the entire dental implant process. Not only will you have to recover after the surgery and ensure that osseointegration has occurred properly, but you might also expect a longer wait if you require procedures like bone grafting or tooth extractions beforehand. Ask your dentist for a timeline estimate so that you can schedule your procedure accordingly.
What Are the Pros & Cons of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are widely known to provide a vast array of benefits for you and your oral health, such as improved bite and jawbone preservation. That said, some of the downsides might involve the lengthy treatment timeframe and certain complications if the patient has particular risk factors that they need to treat. Fortunately, your dentist will discuss all the details you should be aware of during your consultation, that way there are no surprises.
Don’t hesitate to ask any questions and bring up any concerns you might have about dental implants during your appointment. By doing so, you’ll be likely to feel more confident when it comes to rebuilding your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Rebecca Long earned her dental doctorate from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. As a fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, she constantly seeks to refine her skills and expertise so that she can provide comprehensive and reliable treatments that her patients can trust. If you wish to know more about rebuilding your smile with dental implants or want to schedule your consultation, visit her website or call her at 512-328-0155.