Consultation Cues: Establishing Dental Implant Expectations

February 5, 2025

Dentist discussing sample implant with patient in dental chair

Many experts consider dental implants the ideal solution for tooth loss because of their many unique benefits. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, these restorations include a titanium rod surgically embedded in your jawbone. Eventually, your jaw fuses with the metal, making it a permanent part of your mouth for added strength and stability.

However, that doesn’t mean dental implants are the best option for everyone’s unique circumstances. Before proceeding, you must consult your dentist to ensure you’re a good candidate. Continue reading to learn 3 things that typically happen at your initial appointment!

Step #1: Updating Medical History

Your dentist is happy to help you rebuild your grin, but they don’t want to sacrifice your general well-being to do it. Dental implants are the only prosthetics that involve oral surgery, so it’s essential that your provider updates your medical history and lists all current prescriptions medications and supplements you’re taking.

This allows them to verify whether your body is healthy enough to undergo the procedure and whether your teeth and gums will recover effectively afterward. It also makes certain that they won’t recommend any service or medication that might negatively affect your overall condition.

Step #2: Examination & Imaging

Once your information has been updated, your dental team will examine your mouth to confirm that no pre-existing issues, like cavities or gum disease, interfere with the results. They’ll also take X-ray images to see below the surface of your gums and to measure your jawbone density.

If they find problem areas, don’t panic! Sometimes, additional services are required to improve your condition enough to proceed. For instance, your dentist can fill cavities or address gum disease to increase the likelihood of implant success, or provide an additional bone graft surgery to bulk up your jawbone enough to continue.

Step #3: Treatment Plan

Once your dentist verifies that you’re a good candidate, they’ll create a treatment plan and take the time to walk you through the details. They’ll share information about how to prepare for your appointment, what to expect from the procedure, how to care for yourself during recovery, and what pricing to anticipate.

This is the perfect chance to bring up any additional questions or concerns you might have, like what type of technology is used during the surgery, or whether you can be sedated for the process. You might also inquire about your replacement tooth, what it’s made out of, and how long it might last.

Communicating your concerns, fears, and goals openly and honestly with your dentist during your consultation helps them tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique needs!

About the Practice

Patients at Kimberley Lane Cosmetics and Family Dentistry benefit from two dentists with 40+ years of combined experience. Dr. Vince Tran and Dr. Frank Incrapera work collaboratively to offer a complete array of services under one roof, including dental implants. They have both completed extensive hours of ongoing education to focus on a variety of specialty topics, including oral surgery, cosmetics, and complex restorations. They partner with the best local experts for implant placement to increase the likelihood of success, then provide a lifelike prosthetic to rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (713) 827-8200.

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While we are not a preferred provider with your insurance, there is a 90% chance your checkup and cleaning will be covered! Request an appointment to have a friendly member of our team get back to you with more information.

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