Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to replace missing teeth because, unlike dentures and dental bridges, they include titanium posts inserted in your jaw to function like roots.
Although this treatment continues to gain popularity, that doesn’t mean it’s the best option for everyone’s circumstances. Before proceeding, you must consult your dentist to ensure it’s right for you. This is also a perfect opportunity to ask any pressing questions on your mind. If you’re unsure what to inquire about, read on for 3 suggestions!
Question #1: What Is Your Experience with Dental Implants?
All dentists in the United States must meet rigorous requirements to be licensed to practice, but that doesn’t mean they all have the same skills and expertise with various treatments. For example, some focus on general services and preventive care, others are passionate about improving patients’ appearances, and some have unique training to place dental implants.
If you’re unsure whether your provider is experienced enough, the best way to learn is the ask them. Most dentists are happy to share their resume, including their education and any specialized training or certifications they may have completed. You can also ask if they’re a member of well-known organizations, like the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, to know whether you’re in good hands.
Question #2: Am I A Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Potentially anyone wanting to close gaps in their grin can benefit from this treatment, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone’s unique situation. You’ll need to schedule a consultation with your dentist so they can examine your current condition to identify the best solution to meet your needs.
These restorations are the only ones involving oral surgery, so your provider will update your medical history and make sure you’re healthy enough to undergo the procedure. They’ll also examine your mouth so no pre-existing issues, like cavities or gum disease, interfere. Finally, they’ll take scans or X-rays to determine your jawbone density and whether it’s strong enough to support your new teeth. If it’s not, don’t lose hope! Sometimes an additional bone graft procedure can bulk it up so you can continue.
Question #3: How Long Do Dental Implants Take?
Your surgery can take anywhere from one to two or more hours, depending on how many restorations you’re getting and where they’re located. However, many people are surprised to learn that getting dental implants involves multiple appointments spanning several months.
This is because it takes anywhere from three to six months to recovery after the titanium rod is placed because your jaw must produce enough new bone growth to fuse with the metal in a process called osseointegration. If you must have a bone graft surgery first, then you can add an additional three to six months of recovery time on top of that.
Having an honest conversation with your dentist is the best way to determine whether dental implants are the best way to rebuild your smile!
About the Practice
At Soleil Dental Mesquite, you and your family benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping people build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Vazquez and Dr. Aldana collaborate to offer a complete menu of services to people of all ages at one convenient location, including replacing missing teeth. Their comfortable, welcoming environment is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results. They proudly provide each step of the implant process in the office, including oral surgery, to streamline your experience. You can request a consultation on the website or by calling (972) 288-3200.