While dental implants offer a great treatment solution for replacing missing teeth, the procedure isn’t ideal for everyone. Keep reading to find out what to expect during the examination process.
1. Determine Candidacy
The first thing an endodontist will do is determine whether or not dental implants are right for you. To do this, the practitioner will have to review your medical history, as well as conduct a thorough oral examination. This examination will cover areas such as your teeth, gums, and jaws.
Once you’ve been approved as a suitable candidate for dental implants, you’ll receive a breakdown of what the procedure entails, as well as steps you must take to make it a success. And if it is determined that implants are not right for you, the practitioner will suggest other safe and effective tooth replacement options for you.
2. Take X-Rays
X-rays and computed tomography scans are usually performed at the beginning of the examination. This process gives the dentist a clearer picture of the inside of your mouth. It shows how dense the jaw bones are and helps them determine whether the bone structure available will be able to support the dental implant procedure. A patient with less than considerable bone volume may require a bone graft. Without it, the dental implant will not yield the desired results.
Furthermore, the endodontist goes deeper to see if there are other areas in your mouth that require immediate attention as well. The x-rays also help the dentist determine the exact placement where the implants should be positioned.
The x-ray examination is a popular choice among endodontists, and for good reason. This is because it helps them get a more detailed picture of the patient’s oral health overall.
3. Perform a Periodontal Exam
Another thing to expect during the dental implant examination is a periodontal check. This is done to determine the condition of your gums. It is not advisable to perform a dental implant procedure if a patient has gum disease. First, the endodontist will have to develop a treatment plan for the gum disease. After restoring the gums’ health, then the dental implants can be inserted.
In addition, the endodontist must take a critical look at every tooth, one after another. If there are any cavities detected, they should be treated. Otherwise, the aim of the dental implant procedure may be defeated.
4. Take Dental Impressions
At this stage, the endodontist will take dental impressions to determine how healthy your bite is. This process also helps to determine how the implants can match the rest of your teeth. Some endodontists prefer to take pictures of your mouth, so they can create the perfect replacement teeth.
After the examination, the dentist will give you a breakdown of the treatment process. This includes how long treatment will last, the number of appointments required, as well as the recovery period. If you have questions or need clarification, do not hesitate to ask them during the examination process.
Dental implants can help bring back your smile, improve your bite, and boost your self-confidence. You may find more information at Prosthodontic Associates and their online resources.
