Dental implants are fixtures that are surgically fastened into the jaw so that artificial teeth can be mounted. As many of us know, these implants play an important role in restoring our smile, so sometimes they’re necessary. That said, dental implant surgery, although not super painful, can be a little intimidating and even more expensive. That’s why it’s always recommended to be sure that you need the surgery before undergoing it, which is why many people choose to get a second opinion from a certified dentist. To better understand dental implants, let’s take a look at some of the signs that you may need them, and some of the reasons you may want to get a second opinion.
Signs That You May Need a Dental Implant Surgery
If you’re experiencing some obvious signs and your doctor tells you that you need an implant, then you might understand why you need the surgery. If you’re not experiencing any signs, however, then you probably feel more hesitant about it. Either way, you should be aware of the signs that indicate that you need a dental implant, which include:
- Missing teeth: This is the most obvious sign of needing dental implant surgery. We should note, though, that just because you’re missing a tooth, doesn’t mean you have to get the procedure. It can, however, improve your confidence and prevent problems with speaking and eating.
- Infected teeth: Ideally, if you have an infection, your dentist will be able to remove it. If the infection has spread and the treatment isn’t executed soon enough, then the tooth might need to be removed. When this happens, your dentist may suggest a dental implant.
- Cracked teeth: Depending on how damaged your tooth is, you may have different treatment options. One of your options is a dental crown, but not if the damage and pain is severe. Your doctor should consider how damaged the area is and whether or not the tooth needs to be extracted before presenting you with your options.
- Loose dentures: Dentures can not only be uncomfortable, but they can actually fall out if they’re loose. On top of that, you have to get them refitted every couple of years. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, then your dentist may suggest dental implants.
Whether you’re experiencing any of these signs or not, your dentist should always talk to you about your options. If you’re doubting your dentist’s diagnosis, or you want to consider what other alternatives you have, then you should consider seeking a second opinion.
Should I Get a Second Opinion for Dental Implants?
Your dental health is super important, so it makes sense why you want to be sure about the procedures that your dentist suggests. Some of the situations where you should get a second opinion are:
- It’s your first time seeing that dentist: If you’re seeing a dentist for the first time and they start identifying problems that your old dentist never mentioned, then you may not feel confident in their diagnosis. This doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re wrong, but since you don’t have a strong patient-dentist relationship yet, you may want to get a second opinion.
- When the treatment is too expensive: Price is always a concern, especially since not all insurance plans cover the full price of dental implants. Before spending money on an implant, you should make sure that you actually need it.
- You don’t understand why you need it: Now that you know some of the common reasons why people get dental implants, you can better understand if you need it or not. Even if you don’t have any of the usual signs, your dentist should be able to explain exactly why you should get them. If they don’t and they’re not willing to talk to you about it, then that’s a good reason to ask for a second opinion.
- You're nervous about the procedure: You may not have an actual reason to doubt your dentist’s diagnosis, but you may be nervous about the whole procedure. When you get a second opinion, you can send your x-rays to the dentist and they’ll inform you if you have any alternative options.
It’s never a good feeling to feel like you have to undergo a surgery, especially if you don’t think that you need it. Before getting a dental implant, you should get a second opinion from a professional. This will give you the reassurance you need before spending your time and money in a dental chair.
