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Dental implant consultation: what to expect and questions to ask

An empty, bright consultation room at a dental practice

A dental implant consultation is the first visit where a dentist or oral surgeon looks at your mouth and tells you whether implants are an option for you, and what the plan would involve. Many people book one to compare options and prices before deciding anything.

What usually happens at the visit

  • A talk about which teeth are missing or failing, and what you want to be able to do (chew, smile, replace a denture).
  • An exam of your teeth and gums. Many offices take X-rays, and some take a 3D scan (cone beam CT) to see the bone.
  • Questions about your health history and medicines, because some conditions and medicines change how treatment is planned.
  • One or more treatment options, which may include alternatives such as a bridge or a denture.
  • A written estimate, often split into stages: extractions, bone grafting if needed, the implant, and the crown or bridge on top.

Questions to ask the dentist

  • Who places the implant and who makes the crown? Is it one office or two?
  • How many implant cases like mine have you done, and can I see examples of the restoration you plan?
  • Do I need a bone graft, a sinus lift or extractions first? How does that change the timeline?
  • What is in the estimate, and what is not (scans, temporary teeth, follow-up visits, the final crown)?
  • Which implant system do you use, and can another dentist service it later if I move?
  • What happens if something goes wrong: who do I call, and what does a repair cost?
  • Does my dental insurance or HSA/FSA cover any part, and do you offer payment plans?

What changes the price

Two quotes for “an implant” are often not for the same thing. The total depends on how many teeth are replaced, whether extractions or bone grafts are needed, the type of restoration on top (a single crown, a bridge, or a full arch), the scans and sedation used, and the office. Ask each office for an itemized estimate so you can compare like with like.

Before you go

  • Bring a list of your medicines and any recent dental X-rays.
  • Write down what bothers you most today, so the plan answers that first.
  • It is fine to get a second opinion before you agree to a plan.

What the FDA and the ADA say about who is a good candidate

The American Dental Association (ADA) says your general health matters more than your age. The FDA lists factors that can make implants less suitable or raise the risk of problems: poor general health, uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, which may slow healing and lower long-term success, and untreated gum (periodontal) disease. The FDA also lists possible complications, including infection, damage to nearby teeth, nerve injury, a loose implant and, in the upper jaw, entry into the sinus. Ask the dentist how these apply to you.

After placement, the implant has to fuse with the jawbone. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) says this usually takes several months, which is why the crown often comes later.

Frequently asked questions

Am I too old for dental implants?

Age alone usually is not the issue. The ADA says general health matters more than age. Your dentist will look at your health, medicines and jawbone.

Can smokers get dental implants?

Smoking does not automatically rule you out, but the FDA says it may affect healing and decrease long-term success. Tell the dentist if you smoke.

How long does the whole implant process take?

It varies. AAOMS says the implant usually needs several months to fuse with the bone before the final tooth is attached, and extractions or bone grafts add time.

What should I ask about the implant itself?

The FDA suggests asking which implant brand and model will be used, how long healing takes, and what complications could apply to your health.

Sources

Sources checked October 27, 2026.

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General information, not medical advice. Your provider decides what is right for you. Medical review pending: reviewer name and date will appear here.

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