When scheduling mini dental implant consultations, I frequently get the same questions and concerns.
“How much does it cost?”, “Do I have treatment options?”, and “what are you going to do while I’m there?” are the most common. The overall patient concern comes down to this – what should you expect for your Mini Dental Implant Consultation. I have had patients call, and after speaking with me, told me that they had waited months to even call us because they had no idea what to expect. They were concerned. We totally get it- the unknown can be very worrying. We want you to come in knowing EXACTLY what to expect. To put you at ease, I wrote an article giving you a quick breakdown of your initial consultation, as well as answered some of the most common questions we get. I hope this is helpful!
THE GOAL:
Our goal is to provide you with a replacement tooth or denture that is long-lasting, durable, and looks natural. We want you to feel confident, comfortable, and to be able to talk, eat, and function just like you want to. We offer several options for missing teeth, dentures that wont stay in, and loose partials. Since every patient is unique, the only way to determine which type of treatment is right for you is to come in for an initial consultation. Don’t worry, its free, easy, and painless.
THE CONSULTATION:
Consultations usually take approximately an hour. During the initial consultation, you will meet with Dr. Volck and his Dental assistant. During this consultation, we will conduct an examination and take a panoramic X-ray, both of which are at no charge to you. The exam is non-invasive and painless- we are simply looking to see what issues you are experiencing. The panoramic x ray takes less than 2 minutes and is also painless- you simply stand there and let the machine do all the work.
Once we finish the xray and exam, we can discuss the treatment options that best suit your needs. You will be presented with details and pricing for each treatment option, in privacy. Once you choose the treatment you would like, each stage of the treatment option will be explained thoroughly- making sure you are confident and know what to expect before each appointment.
After that, we are happy to go over financing options, if you wish. We will then answer any questions that you may have. We recommend you write down any questions or concerns that you think of and bring your list to your consult! You are under no obligation to schedule treatments same day, however, if you wish to, you are welcome to do that at the end of your appointment.
At Thomas C. Volck, D.D.S., we will ensure that you remain comfortable throughout the process and that all of your questions are adequately answered. Dr. Volck prides himslef in his personal care and hands on approach and is renowned for his advancements in the world of dental implants. Give him a chance- you will not be disappointed. For your convenience we have listed the most frequently asked questions below.
FAQ’S:
“Mini vs Traditional implants- what is the difference?”
A traditional dental implant generally has a diameter of 3 to 6mm. A mini dental implant is typically half of the size of a traditional one. This means that people that do not have enough bone density to support a full size implant may be able to receive a mini dental implant due to the decreased size. This creates more opportunities regarding tooth replacement options for adults suffering from tooth loss along with our patients that tend to suffer from dentures not staying in. And smaller size does not mean your losing out on security or life span- just like traditional dental implants, mini dental implants are made of titanium and offer the same strength and lifespan as traditional implants. If you have been told that you cannot get implants due to a lack of bone density, just call us for a complimentary second opinion.
“Do I leave with a tooth/ Denture?”
When discussing mini dental implants, it is important to note that the MDI is not implanted with the tooth or denture permanently attached. When the procedure is first completed, the titanium post is inserted through the gums and secured to the jawbone. The attaching of the visible tooth comes later after the healing process has been completed. Don’t worry- this does not mean you’re going to leave that day without teeth. You will be given a temporary crown or denture that is specifically created to assist in the healing process. Once healed the new tooth (crown) or new denture will replace the temporary and be attached in office. (or as we like to call it- seated)
“What are Mini Dental Implants made of?”
As previously mentioned, at Thomas C. Volck, D.D.S., we only place dental implants that are made of titanium. In our dental office, we understand how unique and valuable titanium is since it is the only metal that can be integrated into the body. As a result, the body will think that your new root (the titanium rod) is natural matter and will provide the same level of stability to it that the jawbone would to a natural tooth. At the same time, the implant will provide stimulation to the jawbone for a symbiotic relationship.
“Are there any differences between dental implants and mini dental implants regarding how long they last?”
No. Research has shown that Mini dental implants can have the same lifetime as traditional dental implants and both are made of titanium.
“Do mini dental implants and traditional implants they look different?”
Not at all. Once your new tooth (crown) is attached, a mini dental implant and traditional dental implant will look exactly the same. The differences between the two are in the size of the metal post that is implanted under the surface of the gums. The crown itself will be made using an impression of your mouth and measurements that were taken of your teeth in our dental office. That way, your new tooth will look completely natural and blend in with the surrounding teeth, regardless of the size of implant that you received.