What Can You Expect at Your Dental Implant Consultation?

Have you finally decided to take the first step towards restoring your smile by scheduling a dental implant consultation? Congratulations! This is often the hardest part of the entire process. If you’re anticipating your upcoming appointment with your implant dentist in Dallas, a good way to brush off any lingering anxiety you may be feeling is to learn what you can expect. Walk through each step of your consultation below.

Setting Expectations

Setting realistic expectations is an important part of the process, especially when it comes to deciding whether dental implants are right for you. Because this treatment takes longer than traditional replacement methods, knowing that you won’t have your permanent set of replacement teeth within three months can be a detail that could make or break your decision to move forward with the process.

Gathering an Oral & Overall Health History

In addition to setting goals and expectations for the process, your dentist will also discuss your oral and overall health history with you, including speaking about any chronic health issues you face and medications you take. This will allow them to assess any risks of undergoing dental implant surgery and make sure that osseointegration (the fusion of your dental implants with your jawbone) can properly occur.

A Thorough Examination & X-Rays

If you haven’t already had X-rays taken of your mouth, these may need to be completed in order to assess your jawbone density and other factors. If your dentist partners with local oral surgeons, periodontists, or other implant specialists for placement, these diagnostic images may be taken at their office, too. Your dentist will also conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to make sure no preliminary treatments may be needed, like gum disease therapy.

Creating a Treatment Plan

After the examination is complete, your dentist will put together a customized treatment plan. It will include basic details of your procedure, like how many dental implants you’ll need and what type of restoration you’ll require.

Asking Questions

Once your dentist has walked you through your treatment plan, you’ll have a chance to ask any questions that you may have. The office will also likely draw up a cost estimate for the procedure so you know what to expect financially.

Scheduling Next Steps

If you’re ready to consent to the treatment plan and move forward, the front desk will help schedule the next parts of your procedure, which could include a visit with the implant placement specialist as well as your surgery. If at any point you have questions, never hesitate to contact your implant dentist!

About the Author

Dr. Arrechea has been practicing dentistry for over two decades and is dedicated to helping change her patients’ lives for the better. That’s why she offers leading-edge treatments like dental implants. She partners with leading implant placement experts in Dallas to make sure that each of her patients achieves ideal results. Visit Daily Smiles Dallas’ website or call 214-233-9460.