You have an upcoming consultation with your dentist about dental implants. This is exciting, but maybe you’re too preoccupied or nervous to think about the kinds of questions you should ask.
Don’t worry – if you’re struggling to come up with good queries, this post has you covered. Keep reading, and you’ll find a list of useful questions to ask your dentist about dental implant treatment.
Will I Need a Referral?
There are essentially two different procedures involved in a dental implant treatment: implant surgery, which secures the implant posts to your jawbone; and the final restoration, which is when the crown will be fixed to the posts. Most dentists are able to perform the final restoration in-house, but some refer patients to a local specialist for implant surgery.
How Long Will Treatment Take?
Dental implants tend to have lengthier treatment times than other tooth replacements because patients have to wait for osseointegration to take place. “Osseointegration” is when bone matter fuses with biocompatible materials like the kind implant posts are made of. It provides superior stability and strength for dental implants, but can take anywhere between three to six months to occur!
It can be difficult to predict how quickly your body will recover from implant surgery and finish osseointegration, but your dentist can give you a pretty good estimate of your treatment timeline once they take a closer look at your mouth. Don’t be afraid to ask them how long your treatment could take, and be sure to mention any scheduling conflicts you’re aware of.
What Should I Expect for Aftercare?
For the most part, dental implants can be treated like natural teeth. You can brush them using a soft-bristled toothbrush and your preferred brand of toothpaste, and flossing between your implants is simple. They’re also durable enough to withstand the vast majority of foods, so you won’t even have to change your diet after you finish treatment.
A big exception to all this will be during your recovery from implant surgery. Osseointegration can be a delicate process, and your mouth is likely to be sore, making it important not to disturb your newly placed implants. Your dentist will recommend sticking to a strict soft food diet, and might have other detailed instructions catered to your unique oral situation.
How Can I Save Money on Treatment?
Asking about money can feel awkward, but it’s well worth it to do so during your consultation. Many dental practices these days offer flexible payment options through third parties like CareCredit and are dental insurance friendly. Your dentist may very well be able to help make your dental implant treatment more affordable!
There are plenty of good questions to ask during your dental implant consultation – you might even think of a few as your appointment time gets closer. But if your brain is simply running on empty, the questions in this list will help make sure you cover some of the most important information about your treatment. Remember, your dentist is just a phone call away. Don’t hesitate to contact their office with any questions or concerns, even after your dental implant consultation!
About the Practice
Each of our dentists at Rocky River Dental is dedicated to providing patients the best care experience possible. By combining their various specialties, they’re able to offer truly comprehensive services, including in-house dental implant surgery. If you’re curious about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office at 440-331-3211. Our friendly team would be happy to meet with you!