Choosing an Implant Dentist in Prescott Valley, AZ

What To Consider When Choosing an Implant Dentist

Education

For dentists who strive to be the best dental implant providers in Prescott Valley and beyond, it’s not enough to get their DDS. Search for a provider who’s put in the time and energy to learn about implant dentistry. Dental professionals who are vigilant with their continuing education can be trusted to know the latest in implant technology and surgical techniques. Ask about the courses they have taken or certifications they have received.

Certifications

There are many different organizations and training programs that implant dentists can participate in to help them obtain the best education in the procedure. To join these organizations, dentists are required to take a variety of tests that will fully reveal their knowledge regarding treatment with dental implants.

Memberships

Due to the advanced nature of implant placement and maintenance, dentists undergo frequent training to stay up-to-date. But what adds significant value is the time they have devoted to learning and working with implant organizations around the country. These organizations offer new training, as well as fresh perspectives and ideas. Search for a dental implant provider who is an active member in organizations such as:

• American Academy of Implant Dentistry
• International Congress of Oral Implantologists
• Misch International Implant Institute

Experience

Dental implant technology has greatly improved over the last decade as new techniques are being discovered to make them much easier to place. With all these new technologies, dentists must take continuing education courses to remain up to date with the current standard of implant treatment

Another sign of good experience is the services they can provide, or refer you to, to better prepare you for implants. For example, ask if they provide bone grafts or soft tissue augmentations before receiving dental implants.

Location

You may be surprised to find that there are qualified, competent, caring implant providers practicing in your hometown. We recommend looking close to home to avoid unnecessary travel costs.

If you choose to go out of town for a provider, take into account what the costs of transportation may be, whether by public transport or by your vehicle. Take into account the cost of food, gas, tolls, and any possible lodging you may need.

Dental Sedation Options

It’s crucial to find an implant provider who can accommodate your needs. For example, a dentist who provides sedation dentistry techniques can help you manage any dental anxiety you may have. 

Our top goal is to provide our patients with top-quality, comfortable care. For those who have dental anxiety, we can offer oral conscious sedation. This means you can attend your appointments and procedures feeling relaxed and calm. Larson Dental is one of the few dental practices certified to administer this sedation option.

Technology

An implant provider who invests time in continuing education can provide the latest techniques in placing and maintaining implants. However, some of these advancements can’t be achieved without the latest dental technology to back them up. During your consultation, ask about the type of technology that they house in-office. This can include:

CBCT Scanner: This is typically a panorama X-ray scanner that can take a full 3D or a rounded 2D picture of your mouth and skull. They reveal all the hidden details of your oral health, including bone density, damaged teeth, and more.

Intraoral Camera: An intraoral camera is a small camera fixed to a wand that can be inserted into the mouth and take individual, surface-level pictures of any teeth. These pictures can be saved to your records and used to keep track of diseases or prepare for advanced treatments.

Milling Machine: A milling machine is a device that creates dental crowns, veneers, or bridges all in-house without a need for a laboratory. The machine uses a piece of porcelain or ceramic to carve the dental restoration based on scans of the patient’s mouth.

Does your implant dentist conduct an examination during the consultation?

Dental implants are not the best treatment for every patient suffering from missing teeth. There are a variety of different conditions that can interfere with the implant process, resulting in the treatment failing. To prevent this from happening, an implant dentist will usually perform a thorough examination of each patient’s oral health before agreeing to place implants for them.

During the initial implant consultation with Dr. Larson, he checks each patient to ensure they fulfill all of the requirements needed to be considered a good candidate for treatment with dental implants. He will also take this time to address any remaining questions or concerns you may have remaining about the treatment.

Personality

This last factor is entirely subjective but no less important. A dentist is someone you should like and trust. Always meet with a provider and ensure that this is someone you feel comfortable working with. 

Other Questions to Ask Your Implant Dentist

• Do you have any references from colleagues and patients?
• Do you have financing options?
• Can I get a copy of my written treatment plan?
• Do you specialize in any kinds of treatments?

Choose Dr. Larson For Your Dental Implant Treatment

Here at Larson, Drs. Larson is equipped with the knowledge and experience required to ensure that you receive the best possible treatment and care during your dental implant treatment. If you would like to schedule your dental implant consultation, we encourage you to contact our practice today. Call us at 928-237-9064 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you soon!