Dental implants are the best way to replace lost teeth because they look and work just like the real thing and can last for decades or possibly for life if they receive excellent care. Most people who are in fair oral health can become excellent candidates for implants, and your dentist will be happy to help you prepare for your tooth replacements. Here’s a quick look at how dental implant consultations work and how your dentist can help you achieve a beautiful and complete smile.
Can I Be an Excellent Candidate for Dental Implants?
Virtually everyone who has lost teeth is a potentially excellent implant candidate. While oral infections like cavities and gum disease will disqualify you from receiving implants, your dentist can address these issues with effective restorative treatments. If your jawbones are too thin to support implants, a suitable specialist may be able to reinforce them with bone grafts so you can replace your teeth later.
How Does the Dental Implant Consultation Process Work?
The first step to receiving dental implants is to schedule a consultation at your dentist’s office. During this meeting, your oral health professional will evaluate your oral health and medical history to make sure the implant process can be carried out effectively and safely. They will also discuss your needs and preferences for the treatment. In some cases, a dentist may have to schedule a patient for restorative work like fillings or gum disease therapy before they can get implants. In other cases, a dentist may refer a patient to a specialist for bone grafts. The devices will only be placed after the patient has recovered from any preliminary treatments.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
When you are cleared for dental implants, your dentist will schedule you for placement surgery. The procedure is rendered painless with anesthetics and takes about an hour. Implant surgery involves your dentist inserting small titanium pieces into your jawbone through small incisions made in the gum tissue, and the recovery process is often reported to be far more comfortable than it would be for a tooth extraction. This healing period allows implants to develop the sturdy foundation they need to deliver a range of amazing benefits that makes them far superior to conventional tooth restorations.
Don’t let tooth loss detract from the beauty of your smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best way to replace your lost teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Dennis C. Ayer earned his dental degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Fifth District Dental Society, and the International College of Oral Implantologists. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. If you’d like to learn more about the dental implant process, contact his office in Leawood on the web or dial (913) 246-3000.