If you are planning to have dental implants, one of the most important decisions you can make is your choice of implant dentist. Be sure you know what questions to ask and how to determine which dentist you’ll be most comfortable with. Choosing the right dentist will help ensure you get the best possible results from your implant surgery.
How to Choose a Dental Implant Specialist
As with any major surgical procedure, your dental implant procedure will begin with a consultation with your periodontist. You’ll discuss your goals for your surgery, and the dentist will evaluate your eligibility for the procedure and any issues that might affect your healing or the long-term success of your implants.
During this consultation, be sure to ask any questions you might have about the procedure. Your dentist will want to know if you have any conditions or are taking any medications that could make it harder for you to heal after your procedure, or that could cause other problems, such as some medications to treat osteoporosis. Be sure you feel comfortable with the dentist, and that he answers all your questions clearly. Also ask to look at before and after pictures of the dentist’s work, and speak to previous clients if at all possible. A referral from a friend who has already had implants is invaluable.
Determining Your Eligibility for Implants
There are some conditions that can affect your eligibility for dental implants. In some cases, your implant dentist can help you determine an alternative treatment that can overcome these problems. In other cases, you might discover implants are not the best choice for you. Your dentist should be up front with you about these issues.
Some conditions that can affect your eligibility for implants include:
• A history of smoking
• Gum disease
• Lack of bone mass in the jaw
• Diabetes
• Immune system disorder
• Some medications
If any of these problems are applicable, consult with your dentist to determine if implants are still appropriate. Some treatments, such as bone grafting or pre-surgical treatment for gum disease, can enable your implant procedure to move forward successfully.
Contact our skilled and experienced dental team to learn more about any of our procedures by calling our office to schedule an appointment today.
