Are you missing one or more teeth and considering dental implants as a replacement option? If so, you may be considering a dental implant consultation. It’s important to gather all the necessary information during this consultation to help you make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn about four key questions you should your dentist when attending a dental implant consultation.
#1: How Does the Dental Implant Procedure Work?
During the dental implant procedure, the implants are placed directly into the jawbone through the gums. Each implant placement can take up to an hour, and it may take several months for them to fully integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Once the healing is complete, your dentist will schedule a shorter appointment to attach the replacement tooth.
#2: Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
The patient’s oral health is crucial for determining their eligibility for dental implants. It’s essential to have healthy teeth and gums, and any oral health issues should be addressed before starting treatment.
Additionally, the density of the jawbone is assessed to ensure it can support dental implants; if not, a bone graft may be required before proceeding with the procedure. Factors like tobacco use and other oral habits also influence the safety of undergoing dental implant surgery.
#3: How Much Experience Do You Have Placing Dental Implants?
To ensure you receive quality care, inquire about your dentist’s experience in performing dental implant procedures. They should provide details about their qualifications and expertise. Verify if they are board-certified periodontists or oral surgery professionals. Additionally, check if they are affiliated with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).
#4: How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery periods vary from person to person, but you can anticipate some gum soreness for a few days after surgery. Once you’ve healed, gradually reintroduce regular foods into your diet. Avoid tough, chewy, sharp, spicy, sticky, acidic, crunchy, or extremely hot or cold foods and drinks to prevent further irritation to your gums.
Also, ensure you have pain medications, soft foods, and ice packs on hand to ease discomfort during recovery. While you may only need up to a week to recover after surgery, complete healing of the jaw may take 4-6 months.
As you prepare for your dental implant consultation in Forest, feel free to include any additional questions you may have on your list. With a healthy mouth and the guidance of a qualified dentist, you’ll soon be on the path to achieving a fuller, more beautiful smile.
About the Practice
At Hamilton Lakes Dentistry, you can rest assured that you will be receiving the excellent dental care you deserve, including durable and high-quality dental implants to fill gaps in your smile. They provide various replacement options for those missing teeth, including lifelike implants, aiming to enhance your bite, maintain oral health, and restore your smile’s completeness. To schedule an appointment or learn more about dental implants, contact Hamilton Lakes Dentistry at (630) 394-5567 or visit their website.