5 Things You Can Expect During Your Dental Implant Consultation

If you have missing teeth, you might be wondering what your options are for replacing them. Dental implants are one of the best solutions available; not only are they able to restore your teeth in terms of look and feel, but also functionality. Simply put, they can change your life! And the first step to getting them is visiting your dentist for a dental implant consultation. Here are five things you can expect during this appointment as you begin your journey towards a new smile.

1. Meeting the Team

After scheduling your consultation, the first thing you can expect upon arrival is meeting the dentist and their team. They’re the ones who will be responsible for guiding and supporting you throughout the dental implant process. Don’t hesitate to strike up a casual conversation and get to know them a little bit—it’s always nice to feel comfortable and familiar with them, and this can also ensure a better treatment process.

2. Preliminary Conversation

You’ll also have the chance to talk with your dentist about more relevant matters, like your smile goals and oral habits. They will also want to review your medical records and history, past impressions, and X-rays. All of this information is critical for helping your dentist determine your eligibility for dental implants, as well as the appropriate course of action.

3. Oral Evaluation

Your dentist will need to perform a thorough inspection of your mouth to determine if it can handle dental implants. This typically includes X-rays and 3D digital imaging. If your mouth can’t handle implants due to insufficient jawbone density, your dentist might mention a supplemental bone graft. Other times, gum disease has advanced to the point where treatment is necessary before implants are a viable option. This examination also determines how many implants you’ll need and where they need to go.

4. Treatment Plan Discussion

After your dentist has inspected your mouth and approved you for implants, they will begin to review your treatment plan with you. They’ll cover things like:

• Estimated timeline for the entire treatment process including the recovery.
• Number of required additional procedures and appointments.
• Local anesthesia and sedation options.
• Post-surgery expectations and instructions.

5. Final Questions

At the end of your consultation, you’ll also have the opportunity to ask your dentist and their team any final questions you have about your treatment plan and the implant process. You have the right to know exactly what your dentist is going to be doing, so speak up and address any concerns that you might have. You can also ask your dentist to share photos of patients who’ve received implants; dentists are often very happy to show off their previous work!

Dental implants can do a lot for your smile and your life, and it all starts with visiting your dentist for a consultation. If you’re curious about replacing missing teeth with this revolutionary treatment option, don’t hesitate to get the ball rolling.

About the Practice

Blue Coast Dental proudly serves patients and families in the Torrance, CA area under the leadership of Dr. Sanaz Hamzehpour and her incredible team. Together they combine several decades of experience to provide patients with an exceptional level of dental care. The practice is pleased to offer many available services including dental implants. If you have any questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a visit, don’t hesitate to contact the practice online or over the phone: (310) 424-3100.