Avoid These 5 Dental Implant Mistakes By Using an Experienced Dentist
For the best possible outcome be sure you are using a skilled and experienced implant dentist.
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants provide a wonderful treatment option that will replace the complete structure of your tooth, above and below the gum line. This is very important because without a replacement for the missing tooth root, you will begin to experience bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to many unpleasant problems down the line. Dental implants actually bond with and stimulate the bone in your jaw to prevent bone loss and associated problems.
However, getting dental implants is a lengthy and expensive surgical procedure. It is definitely NOT a procedure you want to undertake with a dentist that does not know what they are doing. Here are 5 common dental implant mistakes that you can avoid by choosing an experienced dental implant provider such as California Dental Group to care for you.
Offering Implants to All Patients
The first mistake that an inexperienced dentist might make is trying to sell any and all patients on dental implants. Unfortunately, not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. For example, smokers and individuals with certain medical conditions may not be good candidates. Before agreeing to perform the procedure, dentists need to examine the patient’s dental and medical history most closely.
Using Poor Quality Implants
Another mistake that some dentist make is using poor-quality implants. These may be less expensive, but they could cause complications for the patient. They may also look unattractive if the metal implant peg shows through the implant crown. To provide the best fit, longevity, and biocompatibility, dental implants must be made to exacting standards.
Placing Implants Incorrectly
Dental implants must be placed extremely carefully to ensure that they will heal properly and be able to bear the stress of biting and chewing. Common mistakes include placing the implant in areas without sufficient bone density or placing them so they impinge on the nerve in the lower jaw or the sinus cavity in the upper jaw. These mistakes can easily be avoided by using an experienced dentist and oral surgeon who rely on 3D CT scans to plan treatment.
Not Allowing Enough Healing Time
Dental implants will form a strong bond with your jawbone, but only if they are given ample time to heal. Placing the permanent implant crowns on the implant pegs too early can interfere with healing and may increase the risk of implant failure.
Not Maximizing Your Insurance Coverage
One final mistake that an inexperienced implant dentist might make is failing to squeeze every penny out of your insurance coverage. Since dental implants are typically not covered by dental insurance, getting benefits for the patient requires special consideration. One tactic that can be helpful is seeking an “alternative benefit.” This allows you to apply the coverage you would have been eligible for had you chosen an alternative treatment (such as a bridge or dentures) to your dental implant procedure. Billing extractions or crowns separately can also help maximize your insurance coverage.
Why Trust California Dental Group
At California Dental Group, we have experienced implant dentists on staff who know how to prevent mistakes in your care and minimize your risk of any complications from the procedure. We only work with the best oral surgeons and dental labs, and we have a knowledgeable office staff that can assist with your billing questions. To learn more about getting dental implants at California Dental Group, please contact us today.
