Questions to Ask During Your Dental Implant Consultation

If you’re ready to join more than 500,000 Americans this year who are investing in dental implants to replace lost teeth, you’re making a great choice. A consultation with your dentist is your first step toward a complete, beautiful smile. Dental implants are a big decision, but don’t worry. Here are a few important questions to ask your dentist during your consultation to feel confident in the investment you’re making.

Is My Mouth Healthy?

Your mouth must be healthy to be a candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will examine your mouth and review diagnostic images to look for anything concerning, like decay, infections, or bone loss. Based on the results of your examination, you may need preliminary treatments, like gum disease therapy or tooth extractions. Although it will add another step to your treatment plan, it’s time spent well to ensure your dental implants last.

Will I Need Bone Grafting?

If you’ve been without teeth for many years, you may require bone grafting, but not everyone requires the additional procedure. Your dentist will review a CT scan of your mouth to ensure your jaw can support dental implants. If you’ve experienced bone loss, you may require a grafting procedure to strengthen your jaw.

What is the Success Rate of Dental Implant?

Dental implants have over a 95% success rate and are proven to last for 30 years or longer. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure your mouth heals properly. You can ensure your new smile lasts for decades with good oral hygiene and regular dental care. 

How Long Will the Process Take?

A dental implant replaces the entire structure of a tooth, which requires a multi-step treatment process. After you’ve recovered from any preliminary procedures, you’re scheduled for your placement surgery to insert your implant into your jaw. It can take several months for your jawbone to integrate with your post through a process called osseointegration. Once your bone has healed, you’ll require a second minor procedure to attach an abutment to your post, which is a special fixture that will connect your restoration to your implant. After your gums have healed in a couple of weeks, your dentist will place your restoration.

Your dentist will explain everything during your consultation and address any apprehensions. They’ll help you make the best investment to treat your tooth loss.

About Dr. Jeffrey R. DeMartino

Dr. DeMartino earned his dental degree at Fairleigh S. Dickinson School of Dental Medicine and has regularly continued his education in various specialties, including dental implants and oral-facial applications. He is affiliated with the American Academy of Implantology and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through his website or call (908) 223-5851.