Getting implants is a big decision because the implants will have an impact on your smile and oral health. Also, going through the implant procedure can be long and involved depending on your individual circumstances. The first step is to have a consultation with an implant dentist. Here's a look at what might happen during this visit.
A Review Of Your History And Goals
Your implant dentist may want to review your dental records and obtain a medical history from you. This helps the dentist understand your past dental problems and any complications that might exist. Your dentist also wants to understand your goals for your implant or implants to make sure you have the right expectations. This part of the consultation helps the dentist decide if you're a good candidate for implants, and it also helps you decide if you're making the right choice.
A Physical Examination With X-Rays
The next step is an even more important one, and that's the examination of your teeth, gums, and bone. When you have tooth loss, changes occur to your other teeth and the jaw bone. The dentist has to consider things like bone loss and gum disease when determining if you're a good candidate for an implant. Your overall oral health is assessed, and that usually includes having imaging tests such as an x-ray or CT scan. The images produced by these tests let the dentist measure the thickness of your bone, which is an important consideration when you're getting an implant.
The Treatment Plan Recommendation
The consultation for a dental implant is comprehensive, and once your dentist has all the necessary data, he or she will recommend the best treatment plan for your situation. If you have bone loss, a bone graft might be required as the first step in getting an implant. If you're getting several implants for dentures, your dentist has to consider where to place the implants for the best results. A bone graft isn't always necessary, and if you don't need one, then you may go straight to having the implant put in during your next appointment. Your dentist will discuss the type of anesthesia recommended for your implant procedure, the number of visits needed to complete the process, and the type of crown or dentures you'll need to have made. Once you have all this information, you'll know what has to happen to get your implant or implants and the timeline to expect so you can schedule the procedure and get started on improving your oral health and smile.
To learn more, check out a website like https://www.pghdentalspa.com.
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