An implant consultation typically includes a medical and dental history review, a clinical exam of your teeth, gums, and bite, CBCT imaging to assess bone, a discussion of your treatment options, and a written cost estimate — usually in a single appointment of 45 to 90 minutes.
Key takeaways
- —You should leave the consultation with a clear understanding of what is recommended and why, not just a price.
- —A good consultation includes discussion of alternatives, not just a single recommendation.
- —Bring a list of your current medications and any medical conditions, since these affect implant candidacy and planning.
- —You are under no obligation to commit at the consultation — taking time to consider is normal and appropriate.
What happens in a thorough consultation
A comprehensive implant consultation covers your health and dental history (especially medications that affect bone or healing), a clinical exam of the planned implant site and surrounding teeth and gums, a review of your CBCT scan images with an explanation of what they show about bone volume and density, a discussion of the proposed treatment plan and alternatives, and a written cost estimate.
Questions you should expect the provider to ask you
A thorough provider will ask about your health conditions, medications (particularly bone-affecting drugs like bisphosphonates), smoking status, history of gum disease, grinding habits, and your specific goals and concerns — these factors all affect both candidacy and the specific plan recommended.
What you should walk away with
At minimum, a written treatment plan with itemized costs, a clear explanation of the recommended approach and why, a discussion of the timeline, and an opportunity to ask questions without feeling rushed. If you leave feeling unclear about any of these, it is reasonable to ask for clarification before your next appointment.
Ready to find a provider?
Filter our directory by zirconia availability, technology, and financing options.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get my implant placed at the consultation appointment?+
Almost never — the consultation is for evaluation and planning; a separate surgical appointment is scheduled after you have reviewed and agreed to the treatment plan, typically at least a few days to weeks later.
Should I bring my dental X-rays from another provider to the consultation?+
It can be helpful, and worth asking the practice beforehand whether existing X-rays will be useful. Many practices will still take their own CBCT for treatment planning purposes, since the precision required for implant planning often exceeds what is possible from conventional films.