Attending a dental implant consultation can be a true milestone in your oral health journey. It can mark the start of your path toward regaining a complete, strong, and confident smile! Still, you might wonder what you can expect during this important appointment. In this blog post, you will get a general idea of what may happen throughout your visit.
Oral Exam and Medical History Review
During your dental implant consultation, your dentist will first conduct a thorough oral examination. This step allows your dental team to assess the current condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. They may also take X-rays or use advanced imaging to gather detailed information about your bone structure and the placement of your missing teeth.
Your dentist will also review your medical history in detail. You will discuss any current medications, past surgeries, chronic health conditions, or lifestyle factors that could impact your treatment.
The information gathered during this appointment will help your dentist determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants and whether you will require any preliminary treatments before your implant surgery.
Discussion of Your Treatment Plan
Not every patient is immediately ready for dental implant placement. Your dentist might discuss the need for preliminary treatments that can support the success of your implants. For example, if you have gum disease or insufficient bone in your jaw, procedures such as periodontal therapy or bone grafting may be necessary. Your dentist will explain why these treatments are important and what you can expect from each one.
On the other hand, if your mouth is already able to support dental implants, your dentist can start to plan the details of your placement surgery.
Financial Considerations
Dental implants represent a significant investment in your oral health. During your consultation, the dental team will provide a breakdown of the costs involved, including the implant procedure, any preliminary treatments, and follow-up care. They will also explain what is included in the quoted price and what might require additional fees. You will have the chance to discuss payment options, dental insurance coverage, and financing plans. Understanding these details in advance allows you to make informed decisions about your care.
The Opportunity to Ask Questions
Your consultation is the perfect time to ask questions about the road ahead. Feel free to bring up anything that is on your mind, such as questions about the procedure, recovery time, risks, or expected results. You can also ask about the experience and qualifications of the team members who will be involved in your care. Open communication at this stage helps build trust as you move forward with your treatment plan.
A dental implant consultation lays the foundation for a successful tooth replacement journey. You can go into this appointment confident that it will move you closer toward a healthy and strong smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Kelly Thanh has more than 25 years of experience in dentistry. Her great level of skill and training allow her to both place and restore dental implants. Our office even has a CBCT machine, which allows for precise diagnostics and treatment planning. If you are ready to start your dental implant journey, we would love to welcome you for a consultation. Contact our San Jose office at 408-972-2835.