Timing is Everything –Don’t procrastinate when it comes to getting a dental implant. After getting a tooth pulled the clock will start ticking. The opening in the bone, where the tooth was once located, will initially be larger and capable of supporting a dental implant. However, in time the bone will wither away (atrophy) and lose the support a dental implant will need for proper positioning. Act fast! Don’t wait!
Plan the Road Trip – Make sure you go to a dental office that has the capability to pre-plan the surgery with the right imaging equipment such as 3-D cone beam X-ray technology. Adequate equipment, staffing, sedation, financing, communication, and education must all be plotted out with precision before you step on the gas.
Communication is Key – There must be direct communication between the dentist putting the implant in and the dentist performing the crown placement. Some implant surgeons are unaware of the ideal location of the crown placement and begin WITHOUT the end in mind. Both dentists must coordinate with precision for an ideal long-term outcome. In many cases, just one dentist can be capable and qualified to perform both procedures.
Faster is Not Always Better – Finding a dentist who will take a conservative approach, in order to increase the success rate of dental implant integration, is key. Predictability is paramount when implants can last for a lifetime. Be wary of a dentist that wants to push the envelope and rush a delicate procedure.
Sleep Through the Surgery – Many patients are not aware that some dental offices can offer a full spectrum of sedation treatments better know as Sleep Dentistry. However, many general dentists are limited and will need to send the patient to another location for anesthetic treatment. Add this questions to your pre-treatment consultation with the dentist.
Cost – Implant dentistry is a great investment but can be more expensive in the short term even if it’s more cost effective in the long term. What is it worth to you? Are you prepared financially?
Medical Advances – Implant dentistry has improved a great deal over the last decade with many enhancements rectifying old techniques. Putting too much stock in someones else’s story can be misleading and skew a potential candidates viewpoint. Stay current and seek a professional consultation.
