What to Do if You Think You Need Dental Implants

Dental implants can change your life. It’s not a procedure to be taken lightly, and you’ll need to work with a highly skilled and qualified dentist to make sure you get the best results possible. But if you’re tired of your current smile or want to gain back the confidence you used to have, you may be ready to seriously consider dental implants.

Once you’re ready, what should you do next? Here are a few ideas.

Talk to Your Dentist

If you’ve been unhappy with your smile or want to get away from bridges, crowns, and dentures to something more permanent, you might be ready for dental implants. Talk to your dentist first. Only a qualified dentist should perform the dental implants procedure. Discuss your options with your dentist. If they don’t offer the procedure, ask for recommendations.

Once you find the dentist who you’d like to work with, they should do a complete dental check-up. They’ll need your medical history and to examine your mouth, gums, and jaw. While the vast majority of patients are great candidates for dental implants, not everyone can or should get them. Your dentist needs to know as much information as possible to make the best recommendation for you.

Consider the Costs

If you have dental insurance, there’s a good chance dental implants won’t be covered. You should always check to make sure, though, as every company is a little different. Ask your dentist’s office about the estimated costs. Once you meet with your dentist to talk about the procedure, they should be able to give you a fairly accurate estimate.

Ask about financing options or specials for dental implant procedures. While getting the implants has a larger upfront cost, the durability and ease of care make it a more affordable option over time. Dentures may be cheaper at first, but they will likely need to be replaced every several years where dental implants can last for 20 years or longer.

Make Sure You Understand the Procedure

Even if you have no doubt you’re ready for dental implants, it’s important to understand the procedure. Talk to your dentist about what you can expect based on their examination of your specific situation. In general, most implant procedures follow a similar path:

• Full dental examination
• Implant placement in the office under local anesthesia
• Two to six months of time to heal
• Permanent crown or tooth connected to the implants

During the healing process, you may be given a temporary crown, bridge, or set of dentures you can wear in public.

What Happens After the Procedure

You’ll also want to prepare for what happens once the procedure is done. You’ll be given something to help with pain and discomfort during the procedure. Because of this, you should have someone with you who can drive you home. They should also be someone you trust to take note of any pre-operative care.

Take at least a day off of work after the procedure to rest and relax. Talk to your dentist and ask what you can take for pain once you’re home. You may be okay with over-the-counter medication or you may need a prescription. Make sure you have whatever medication you need to avoid too much discomfort for the first day or two after the rods are implanted.

Get Ready for a New Smile

Whether you’re missing one tooth or you need to replace several, you’ll be shocked when you see your new smile for the first time. It may seem impossible to imagine right now, while you’re still in the early stages but dental implants will definitely improve your grin. Don’t be surprised if you feel like a completely new person when it’s all done and you’ve completely healed.

The effects of dental implants are usually the reasons people seek them out in the first place:

• More confidence
• Brighter smile
• Better self-esteem
• Get the job or the raise you deserve
• Stop hiding your mouth, teeth, or smile

If those are the things you want, you’re probably more than ready for dental implants.

Conclusion

It’s not enough to want dental implants. You need to make sure you’re a good candidate for the procedure and that you understand exactly what it entails. Talk to your dentist and ask a lot of questions. Once you decide to move forward with your implants, prepare your family and yourself for the big change. You may be surprised at what a new smile can do for you.