Tooth implants are the oft referred to restorative treatment to replace teeth that are either broken or lost due to damage and decay and when root canals are no longer a viable option. Only a consultation with a dental practitioner can best determine if this dental treatment solution is right for you. For optimal results, the key is to find a suitable dentist that is the right fit for you. In order to determine this likely fit, here are essential questions to ask your implant dentist when carrying out your research. When seeking a dentist offering dental implants in Harley Street, you will want to prioritise a practitioner with a long track record of success.
Suitable candidates for teeth implants are those who have one or more teeth missing, experience difficulties in chewing food and those with loose natural or denture teeth. It is also preferable that implant patients do not smoke.
What to ask your implant dentist
In addition to the typical questions relating to a dental practitioner’s experience, qualifications and skills in performing a particular treatment option, there are other equally important questions that need to be asked.
- How do you construct a treatment plan suitable for me?
A dental practitioner will need to conduct a comprehensive initial assessment before being able to determine the most appropriate treatment programme for you. At our dental practice we include the following in our dental exam: examination of gums and gum tissue to determine their health, quality of bone structure and a thorough bite evaluation that assesses tooth wear as well as overall bite ability.
- Can I see before and after photos of tooth implant cases you have performed?
Actual before and after images of implant success stories of previous patients can be very influential when making a decision on a dental practitioner to provide you with dental implants in Harley Street.
- How long do implants last?
Teeth implants are designed to offer a lifetime of service; however, patients are reminded that they need to take proper care of their dental health to receive such a benefit. Due to developments in Implantology technology, equipment and processes, the survival rate of implants are very high. The crowns placed on top of implants last on average 10 to 15 years and may require replacing. Once again, proper home care influences the health of crowns. This means that you will have to maintain a healthy lifestyle (reduce alcohol consumption and eat a wholesome diet with plenty of vegetables) and be conscientious in keeping your teeth and gums clean by not only brushing and flossing as instructed by your dentist but, keeping to regular check-ups.
Do you have further questions? Remember to also include in your consultation the question as to whether you will require additional procedures in order to receive implant treatment. For example, do you need a bone graft performed before implantation? The best way to address any questions or concerns is to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists at the Harley Street Dental Clinic.