A missing tooth can be a scary experience, and it might even be something you feel embarrassed to mention. However, you aren't alone. Did you know that around 150 million adults in America have a missing tooth, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry?
Today's dental advancements mean that no one has to suffer tooth loss. Implant surgery has helped millions regain their smile.
However, before you get a dental implant, you need to find a trusted team with a reputation for safe and high-quality treatments. Here is our guide on how to choose the right dentist.
Before getting implants, it's important you understand a bit about the procedures and benefits. It will help you make a more informed decision about the right dental team.
Dental implants are a permanent option for those missing teeth due to decay or accidental damage.They work by adding a post to the jawbone. That post is often made of strong titanium. After adding that root support, a dentist will add a crown that looks as good as a natural tooth.
Over time, the post fuses with the jawbone, adding strength and durability. It's an excellent option for those who want something practical and also looks great, preserving the smile.
Choosing an
experienced dentist, however, is central to a successful implant. They will ensure you get a safe and tailored treatment that lasts.
Dental implants are a long-term solution, so always take your time to research a dentist who has the right level of experience and qualifications. A general degree in dentistry is often only a starting point for this procedure, so look for a dentist who has additional experience in implant dentistry.
Dr Tabas, for example, has been helping patients with implants for 18 years and is also a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. That experience means you will have a dentist who has encountered varied cases and fine-tuned a high skill level for the procedure.
You should look for other reputable bodies, too, like membership in the Academy of General Dentistry, as this shows a commitment to ongoing education and implant expertise.
Advanced technology and cutting-edge techniques have made a significant difference in the quality and durability of modern implants. It's something to consider when searching for an implant dentistry team.
Modern implant dentistry includes imaging before the procedure so the dentist can assess your bone structure. This process ensures you are a good candidate for the treatment. These scans also ensure you get the most precise implant placement.
Digital impressions are another tool that can help provide more accurate implant fittings.
Some teams also offer advanced implant surgery techniques that help reduce discomfort and improve the placement.
When shortlisting dental teams, ask about their techniques and find out what
tools and technology they have in their surgery.
Personal recommendations are often the best way to discover a great service, so don't skip this step. Take the time to read patient reviews and testimonials for any dentist you have shortlisted for implants.
Honest patient feedback will tell you if the dentistry team has the skills and knowledge for the work and whether they can provide a safe, comfortable, and pain-free experience. Ensure you focus on reviews from patients who have undergone implant procedures rather than general dentistry.
Read our
five-star reviews for Dr. Tabas to see some of our glowing feedback. You'll find patients talking about his expert knowledge and caring personal touch. You'll also learn how patients enjoy pain-free procedures and appreciate the friendly, clean facility.
A thorough consultation is there for a number of reasons, and it is also a part of your decision-making process. This first visit will often help you feel at ease and build a rapport with the dental team.
Here is what you can expect.
The dentist will use this time to evaluate your oral health and medical history. They'll need to ensure you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. That means taking scans or X-rays to check aspects such as bone density. You should feel comfortable enough to ask questions or express any worries about the procedure.
An experienced dentist will understand that many patients have reservations or anxieties about the treatment, and they'll take the time to talk you through each step.
When you leave the consultation, ensure you are offered a detailed treatment plan covering timelines, costs, and options. Professional implant dentists, like Dr Tabas, will always personalize the implant treatment to the patient's needs.
Before you finalize your choice of dentists for an implant procedure, you'll need to know the costs and how you plan to finance the treatment. It's important to remember that implants are a personalized procedure, and costs will depend on the complexity of your case, such as your current oral health.
Always get a breakdown of the final costs to help you understand what you are paying for and why. You may also need to check that the dentist accepts your current dental insurance and whether a financing plan is an option for you.
Your dental treatment doesn't finish once the implant is in place. There is also aftercare to consider, so make sure this is part of your decision-making when choosing dental care.
Ask about their post-procedure care plans and follow-up visits. You want to ensure you have a trusted team available to help with issues like discomfort. Aftercare support is also something to check when you read patient reviews and testimonials.
The hardest part of getting dental treatment is often the first step: finding a trusted team. Use this guide to help you find a reliable, experienced dentist for your dental implant procedure.
A personal touch from an implant expert is what you get with The Tabas Center. Dr. Tabas has been supporting South Philly for over 30 years, and 18 of those include specialist dental implant procedures. Book your
first consultation today and discover why we are loved by our patients.
2534 S Broad St,
Philadelphia, PA 19145
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