Imagine that you are having an old car professionally restored so that you can drive it around town, and it will look better than the day it was made 65 years ago. It would make a lot of sense for you to meet with the person restoring it so that they understand all the minute details about how you’d like the restoration to go.
On a similar note, talking to your implant dentist in advance of getting dental implants is crucial so that you are fully informed about a treatment that will affect your quality of life for many years to come. The best way to make the most of this opportunity is to ask the right questions about dental implants in Lincoln. Keep reading for some ideas!
What Costs Should I Be Prepared for and What Are My Payment Options?
Most insurance companies will cover the exams and X-rays ahead of the procedure. The final price will include the cost of the implant placement as well as the creation and placement of the dental crown. You should ask for an exact breakdown of the cost. Unless you can afford to pay in cash, be sure to ask about financing or a payment plan.
What’s the Basic Difference Between Dental Implants and Dentures or a Dental Bridge?
It’s best to know about all your tooth replacement options before deciding on implants. Scientifically, an implant is the most secure option because it utilizes the strength of your jawbone.
What Should I Expect from My Recovery After My Dental Implant Procedure?
The dentist may recommend that you have the procedure done late in the week so you can recover over the weekend while your mouth is sore. They’ll suggest you stock up on items like ice packs, ibuprofen, and soft foods. You will usually be provided a temporary restoration to cover the time between your metal implant being placed and your new tooth getting attached.
How Do I Make Sure I’m Eligible for Dental Implants?
The dentist may tell you that any other oral health problems will need to be addressed first. They will expect you to have healthy teeth and gums heading into a surgical procedure. Another factor they will address is bone density. An X-ray will probably be taken to determine if your bone is dense enough for implant placement.
Do You Take Care of All My Treatment for Dental Implants in This Office?
Some dentists will perform the complete implant procedure, while others will only attach the crown. So, you’ll want to know if an oral surgeon will be involved or if you’ll see the same dentist throughout your treatment.
What Sort of Experience Do You Have with Dental Implant Procedures?
It’s a good idea to ask a dentist about their experience regarding a major procedure you are considering, both in terms of their education and clinical familiarity. It makes sense that the more often they perform a procedure, the greater the likelihood it will go smoothly.
Dental implants provide a wealth of benefits, so it’s likely this will be the tooth replacement option at the top of your wish list. But they are a significant investment requiring minor oral surgery, so you are going to want to do your research. The best way to do that is by asking key questions during your dental implant consultation to an expert who just so happens to be the person who would perform the procedure!
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding enjoys learning about his patients and their smile goals so that he can provide exceptional dental care. He has been working hard for the Lincoln community and surrounding areas for nearly two decades. Earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, he continues to prioritize learning and is one of two dentists in Nebraska to hold the prestigious position of Spear Visiting Faculty. If you are interested in dental implants, Dr. Olberding is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, he can perform bone grafting to improve your chances of implant success, and he offers flexible dental payment options. Ask about implant-retained dentures or All-On-4 dental implants during your consultation, which you can schedule on his website or by calling (402) 488-2325.