Dental implants are a life-changing decision. They permanently replace missing teeth, giving you confidence, a youthful appearance and the ability to eat foods without pain. They’re a significant commitment both financially and cosmetically, so it’s important to know all the facts before you commit.
Here are 10 questions everyone should ask their dental implant dentist:
1. Are dental implants the best option for me?
Before you even start asking about details, you’ll need to know if implants are the best option for you. Age, tooth structure and whether you smoke are just a few of the things your dentist will need to know before giving you a recommendation.
2. Will my dental implants be covered by my insurance?
While most insurance companies don’t completely cover the cost of dental implants, some do provide partial coverage. It can be confusing or inconvenient dealing directly with your insurance company, so asking this question will let your dentist know you need help figuring out your options for insurance and/or tax deductions.
3. What are my options for payment?
It’s important to know how flexible your dental office is with payments, as some require one payment and others can work with you on a payment plan. Before you decide, ask for a consultation and written quote.
4. How much experience do you have with dental implants?
Since dental implants are such a huge decision, it’s helpful to know how much experience your dentist has with dental implants. You can ask about your training, years working with dental implants, success rate and even the specific number of dental implants they’ve performed.
5. How advanced is your equipment?
The more advanced the technology at your dental office, the more precise your dentist will be able to complete your dental implant procedure. Advanced equipment can give you higher-quality service.
6. Will you be performing all the dental implant procedures?
Some dentists only perform surgeries. Others only place the implant. And others may only restore the implant. It’s important to know if your dentist can do all parts of the process in their office, or if you’ll need to visit more than one location.
7. How many times will I need to visit the dental office?
It’s important to know how much time you’ll need to invest for your dental implants. Some dental implant procedures, like All-on-4 and Teeth-in-an-Hour, take less than one day. Others, like traditional dental implants, can take three to six months.
8. Will I be sedated during the procedure?
One of the biggest fears many people have about the dentist is feeling pain during a procedure. If your dentist utilizes IV sedation or another form of sedation, it can ease your anxiety.
9. How long will it take me to recover?
While most dental implants take three to four months to completely integrate with the jaw, the times it takes to heal or chew solid food again can vary. Ask your dentist whether you’ll be pain-free within a couple days, or if it will take months.
10. How long will my dental implants last?
Dental implants aren’t called “Permanent Teeth to Last a Lifetime” for nothing. Most last forever (when they are properly cared for), but it’s important to get confirmation from your dentist.
Call Springville Dentistry for your complimentary dental implant consult with 3D CT scan today!
