If you are receiving dental implants to replace missing or damaged teeth, don’t go into the procedure without asking a few key questions. Knowledge is power, and that is especially the case when it comes to any kind of medical procedure. Do not just blindly trust your dental specialist. Instead, make sure to educate yourself on the procedure by asking your dentist these 5 questions before getting a dental implant. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a dental implant consultation, contact University Dental by calling (619) 582-4224. We specialize in dental implants and are more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have, including providing more information regarding the 5 questions below.
Many patients wonder if they really need to replace a missing tooth. Some feel the missing tooth doesn't affect how they look, or they simply don’t care. Regardless of the aesthetic benefits of replacing a missing tooth, there are serious health concerns if you fail to replace a missing tooth. A missing tooth can cause difficulty chewing, jawbone deterioration, an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay, and the future loss of neighboring teeth. Failing to replace missing teeth can also cause your teeth to shift dramatically to accommodate the gap, leading to bite problems and an uneven smile. All of these factors mean you should replace a missing tooth as soon as possible.
You should always make sure you hear directly from your dentist how long your dental implants are expected to last. Of course, complications can always occur that shorten the lifespan of the implant, but getting an estimate prior to the procedure will at least give you some idea of how long the implants should last. In general, implants last an average of 13 years.
Get a detailed estimate of the exact cost of your dental implants before the procedure. During an initial consultation, you will likely get a quote or price estimate. However, prior to the actual procedure, make sure to follow up with your dentist to get an updated, more accurate cost.
It is important to only trust a dental implants expert. Your dentist could have twenty years of experience practicing dentistry, but only a handful of dental implant procedures under their belt. Ask your dentist whether they have specific dental implant training or are board-certified to perform dental implant surgery. You should also explore their patient history, looking for before and after pictures and patient testimonials.
Make sure you find out if there will be any restrictions following the placement of dental implants. In general, dental implants should act and function exactly like a normal tooth, with patients brushing and flossing them as they would any other tooth. Depending on the type of material used for the implant and your dentist, there may be some dental implant restrictions. Make sure you are aware of these restrictions and agree to adhere to them prior to having the implants placed.
The dental implant specialists at University Dental in San Diego are ready to answer whatever questions you may have. We strive for patients to be as knowledgeable as possible prior to the procedure, as we feel this increases the likelihood that all parties leave the procedure satisfied. If you have missing or damaged teeth, contact University Dental for a dental implant consultation. To learn more, give us a call at (619) 582-4224.
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