The number of dental implants in the US could increase by 23% between 2020 and 2026. Dental implants now have a 97% success rate. They’re recognized as an advanced solution for those seeking to replace missing teeth due to trauma or decay, too. 

Are you scheduling an upcoming dental implant procedure? Make sure to choose the best dental implant dentist in Jersey City, first.

Choosing the right dentist can reduce your risk of complications. Read on to learn how to choose a Jersey City dentist you can trust with your implant procedure today. 

Consider Their Specialty

General dentists can perform dental implant procedures. However, the best type of dentist for this procedure is either a periodontist or an oral surgeon. You can also look for an implantologist; someone who specializes in dental implants.

Look for dentists in Jersey City who perform dental implant procedures often. Ask them how often they complete the procedure. Determine if they’ve performed the procedure within the past few months.

If they haven’t, or don’t perform the procedure often, keep searching.

Finding a dentist who thoroughly understands the dental implant process can help you feel more confident in your choice. You’ll know they have the hands-on experience and knowledge necessary to perform the procedure. These professionals are also less likely to make mistakes that could impact your oral or overall health. 

Review Their Qualifications

Before choosing between Jersey City dentists, review each professional’s qualifications.

First, determine how much training the dentist has completed over the years. Ask where they went to school and confirm it’s an accredited institution. Consider asking about the specific courses they completed and what professional associations or accreditations they’ve received over the years. 

Check the courses to ensure the dentist is credible. Confirm the associations are legitimate, too. 

You can also ask the dentist when they graduated and began practicing. If dentists graduated a few decades ago, they likely have more experience in their field. However, these dentists should also continue their education over time.

Dentist who continues their education after graduating has likely remained informed about new techniques, procedures, and technologies. Dentists that don’t remain up-to-date, on the other hand, often use antiqued techniques.

Choose a dentist who will prioritize your standard of care as a patient to ensure you receive the best treatment. 

Prioritize Experience

Once you confirm the dentist has the proper qualifications, consider how long they’ve practiced dentistry. There are currently over 178,800 dentists in the US, with a 2.5% growth in the industry year over year. 

Finding a dentist who has already worked in the industry for a few decades can help you feel more confident in your abilities. Someone who has practiced dentistry for years has likely performed the dental implant procedure many times, too.

If the dentist lacks hands-on training and experience, remove them from your list.

Ask for References and Photos

Before choosing a dentist in Jersey City, ask each dentist if they can provide at least three references. If you can, speak with patients who underwent the dental implant process themselves. Ask each patient about their experience with the dentist.

For example, you can ask the patient if they encounter any issues or have any complaints. Ask if they’re satisfied with the outcome of their procedure, too. 

Otherwise, check online to read reviews on the dentist’s BBB and Google Business listings. Check their website for patient testimonials as well.

If the dentist has several complaints filed against them, or a medical malpractice suit filed against them, keep searching. 

Before scheduling your dental implant procedure, ask the dentist if you can see before and after photos. Before and after photos will help you maintain realistic expectations about the procedure. 

Discuss the Treatment Plan

Before the procedure, schedule a consultation appointment with one or two dentists on your list. Talk to each dentist about the dental implant process.

First, they should determine if you’re an ideal candidate for the procedure. Patients who are ideal candidates:

● Don’t smoke or use tobacco

● Have good oral health

● Are missing at least one tooth

● Want to improve their speaking or eating abilities

● Are in good health to withstand surgery

● Has a healthy jawbone (thick and strong enough to secure implants)

If your jawbone isn’t strong enough, your dentist might recommend bone graft surgery instead.

Ask the dentist to walk you through the treatment plan. They should customize the treatment plans based on your distinct needs.

The dentist should discuss:

● The oral exam

● Extracting any remaining damaged teeth

● Gum disease treatment (if necessary)

● Bone grafting

● Placing the implant

● The osseointegration process

● Placing the crown 

Ask the dentist if they provide same-day implants. Otherwise, ask them how long the entire process will take. You can also ask about other dental services that align with your needs and goals.

During your consultation appointment, have the dentist walk you through preparing for your procedure as well. Ask about the side effects you might experience after the surgery. Swelling, bleeding, and bruising are normal and should subside within a week.

You can also ask the dentist about the technology they use to determine if they use the latest equipment.

Consider Financing and Payment

Before leaving your consultation appointment, ask the dentist about dental implant costs. Determine if the procedure is covered by your insurance plan. If not, ask the dentist’s office if they offer financing options.

Request an estimate for the procedure from more than one dental practice to determine the average cost. If someone’s pricing is higher than the rest, determine why that is. 

Don’t choose a Jersey City dentist based on pricing, though. Instead, review your notes to choose the best dentist for the procedure. 

Choose an Implant Dentist in Jersey City You Can Trust Today

Finding an implant dentist in Jersey City is crucial. Choosing someone with relevant experience and expertise can improve the outcome of your procedure. Use these tips to find a dentist you can trust today.

Eager to schedule your upcoming dental implant procedure? We’re here to help.

Contact us today to get started.