Dental Implant Consult: Important Questions to Ask!

Are you considering dental implants? Congratulations! You’re on your way toward a beautiful, healthy, and strong set of teeth. Beginning this process can be a little overwhelming, which is why a trained implant dentist has included some important questions to have handy during your consultation. Read on to prepare yourself and get started on this amazing tooth replacement!

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

The first question that you’ll want to discuss is whether or not you’re a good candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will review your medical history and examine your mouth before making a recommendation. Most adults who are missing one or more teeth can benefit from dental implants, however you must be committed to a regular oral health routine. Even if it may not seem like implants are right for you, your dentist can perform treatments like bone grafting and gum disease therapy to help you become eligible.

Do You Place and Restore Dental Implants?

Many dentists refer the dental implant surgery out to a specialist. However, the right dentist will offer placement and restoration in the same location. During you consultation, ask about your dentist’s training and experience when it comes to dental implants. If they provide start-to-finish treatment, you’ll know you can count on them to give you a convenient and consistent treatment. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ll see the same dentist during each visit.

What Happens if I Don’t Replace My Teeth?

When you learn about the cost of dental implants, you may be tempted to skip treatment altogether. However, your dentist will tell you that implants pay for themselves by preventing problems down the road. Without replacing teeth, your remaining smile will shift out of place and your oral health will be at a greater risk of decay and infection. Plus, your jawbone will deteriorate due to lack of stimulation, which will cause additional tooth loss and a sunken facial appearance. That said, implants support teeth to keep them in place while stimulating the jawbone to prevent shrinkage.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

With proper maintenance, dental implants can last for 30 years or even the rest of your life. When you ask your dentist this question, they will provide you with some easy yet effective tips for implant care. Dental implants can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth, which makes cleaning them much easier than traditional dentures. If you have any questions about maintenance, now is the perfect time to ask!

Now that you know some questions to keep in mind, start your dental implant journey with confidence. Contact your dentist and schedule a consultation to see how dental implants can change your life.

Meet the Dentist

Dr. Steve W. Cobb is a highly trained dentist in Odessa who proudly offers dental implants to his patients. He has over 4 decades of dental experience, and he can’t wait to help you smile with a full, healthy set of teeth. To schedule a consultation, he can be reached through his website or by phone at (432) 367-4774.