Dental implants are certainly intriguing. And if you’re missing a tooth, you’ve probably spent some time thinking about whether they’re the right step. While the Internet offers plenty of resources, there’s only one way to know whether your mouth is ready for implants: meeting with an implant dentist. But how do you choose the right one?
Our Denver implant dentist wants you to be aware of all your options before your make a commitment – and how to decide which office is the right one for you. Read on for a discussion of how you can prepare for that first consultation, and whether our own Cherry Creek Dentistry might be the office where you’ll feel the most comfortable.
Preparing for Dental Implants
Before getting started with the implant process, you’ll want to arm yourself with knowledge. Consultations can feel overwhelming, and you want to make sure that you get your questions asked (and answered). There are also some health requirements that will need to be met before you can begin the process.
Here are just a few things to think about prior to your consultation. By spending a little time ruminating on your own teeth, preferences, and goals for restorative treatment, you’ll be able to articulate what you want to get out of implants.
- How long have you been missing teeth? If it’s been some time since you lost the tooth (or teeth) in question, it will be a little more complicated to replace them. The longer you spend without a tooth, the better a chance the bone beneath it has of resorbing (dissolving), weakening the area. In order for an implant to succeed, it requires adequate bone density. You may require a bone graft prior to implant placement.
Would you like fixed or removable restorations? In truth, implants support both. Whether you’re interested in crowns, bridges, or full dentures, implants will anchor the restorations to your gum line. But it’s important to identify which type you’re interested in, so that your consultation can be more specific.- How long has it been since your last dental exam? We ask this because if it’s been some time, there’s a higher chance of you presenting cavities or gum disease. These will need to be treated before you can receive implants.
- How long would you like your restorations to last? Dental implants are something of an investment, but they last far longer than other restorations. Because they form bonds with your natural bone, they remain in place for many years to come (and sometimes even a lifetime).
- What kind of a patient commitment are you willing to make? Receiving implants requires a surgical procedure, and a significant healing period. But, the bigger the commitment, the bigger the reward – implants will replace missing teeth in an entirely natural-looking and -feeling manner.
- Are you looking for sedation for the implant procedure? If you’re an anxious patient, sedation will make a big difference. Cherry Creek Dentistry has a sedation focus, with a number of options (including twilight sedation) available for our patients. We want everyone to feel comfortable when in our office.
Denver Implant Dentist on Finding Your Match
When it comes to choosing a medical professional, you need to take time and care. Spend some time with our office, figuring out if it’s the right choice. We’re confident in Dr. Olinga Hargreaves’ and Dr. John Hargreaves’ extensive skills and implant placement training. With their backgrounds and thirsts for continuing education, they’re up to the task of restoring your teeth.
We’d love to meet you and tell you more – just get in touch.