Five Questions To Ask Before You Get Dental Implants

Dentist Blog

Dental implants are an excellent surgical treatment that replace missing teeth. They provide the same look and functionality as your real teeth, making them a popular alternative to bridges and dentures. However, receiving a dental implant requires major surgery. Dental implants should be taken very seriously. As the patient, you should do your due diligence to ensure that this option is exactly what you need. It will also help you set realistic expectations for the procedure.

Five Questions to Ask Before You Get a Dental Implant

The following five questions will help you determine if the procedure is in fact what you're looking for and if the surgeon in question is your best option.

1. Does the surgeon use surgical stents or guides? This type of surgical equipment helps provide communication between the restoring dentist and the surgeon. They ensure that the implant is placed in the exact right location. It prevents the problem of having the first part of the implant placed improperly, which makes adding the crown almost impossible.  
2. What is the complete process of receiving an implant? Before you jump right into getting a dental implant, you should be well aware of the procedure that you'll be undergoing. Chances are the dentist and surgeon will explain the process, but you should ask as many questions as needed to fully understand what's about to happen.  
3. What is the surgeon's 10 year success rate? The average success rate for dental implants is typically quite high. However, some surgeons don't have the required experience to provide a high chance of success. Ask how many dental implants they've performed and the success rate of these implants for the past 10 years. This will instill confidence in their skills, or it will give you enough of a reason to look for another surgeon.  
4. How will you have to care for your new implant? You need to understand what will be required to keep the dental implant healthy and strong. How much will you have to change your existing oral hygiene habits? Generally speaking, the only change should be more frequent check ups with your dentist. However, your situation may call for different care requirements.  
5. Will you be sedated? Not all oral surgeons use the same sedation practices. Some will provide a local anesthetic, but you'll still be awake throughout the surgery. Most surgeons will have the option for you to be sedated so that you will be more comfortable with the procedure.

By asking the above questions, you'll be well informed about the procedure you're about to undertake. Feel free to ask any other questions that come to mind so that you can make sure the procedure is right for you. For more information, contact a dental clinic, like Implant Dentistry of Virginia.

29 January 2015