Just like you wouldn’t trust an insurance adjuster to assess the value of your vehicle claim before inspecting your car, you shouldn’t expect a dentist to price out your treatment before examining your mouth. Your initial dental consultation is a very important stepping stone for the rest of your treatment, so make sure you work with a professional who will do it properly. For a trusted top Hoffman Estates dentist, visit Forest Edge Dental.
What Is a Dental Consultation?
A dental consultation is a simple and non-invasive visit with a dental professional. It’s more about discussion than action because it gives your provider the opportunity to meet you, listen to your concerns, and introduce your potential treatment options. Before confirming the best option for you and what it all will entail… your dentist will need to actually look in your mouth!
Hoffman Estates Dental Exam
Ball park pricing may be given after a consult for a few dental services but most services will need the doctor to complete a comprehensive exam first so they can understand exactly what is going on in your mouth. For example: you have multiple missing teeth and are considering dental implants. You would like to know exactly how much a dental implant is… well… there are a lot of things to consider before you place an implant properly. How much healthy bone do you have? Is gum disease present? Are the adjacent teeth in good condition? Sure, any office can throw a number out there but don’t be surprised when all these “hidden costs” show up later.
For teeth replacement options such as dental implants, Dr. Johnson wants to ensure the best possible outcome. Only an x-ray can help Dr. Johnson determine the condition of your jaw bone. The reason he needs to see if your bone is healthy is because it needs to be able to support an implant and if it has deteriorated too far… it will fail without a bone graft. That means more time and issues for you and possibly more money down the road if this isn’t addressed properly in the beginning.
Many providers offer free consultations to help patients begin the important task of caring for their teeth and many insurance policies cover the cost of exams. These are just a few of the procedures that may require you to have an exam before receiving a quote on treatment:
- Tooth extractions
- Invisalign
- Veneers
- Dentures
- Implants
- Gum disease treatment
Understand Your Treatment Options
Even if you already know your dental goals, you may not be aware of every treatment option available to reach your goals. For example, if you have two “damaged” teeth and want them replaced, you could benefit from crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, or possibly dental veneers if the teeth are only aesthetically damaged. Your dentist should walk you through each option and help you determine which makes the most sense in your unique circumstances.
Determine Your Eligibility or Limitations
You may have certain health conditions, medications, or oral complications that limit the type of treatments you can undergo. Your dentist will identify any possible limitations during your exam so that you can make necessary changes. For example, you might be advised to lower your blood pressure, undergo gum disease treatment, or stop taking blood thinners.
Make a Plan For Payment
Only after your dentist has thoroughly evaluated your mouth and discussed your wishes and needs can they price out your procedure. Don’t worry if your dental procedure comes with a high price tag, your dental insurance may cover a portion of your bill. Our office also offers dental financing to help you get the care you need without spending every last penny.
Many dental procedures are life changing. If you never show your smile, what is that costing you? If you believe your oral health has been an issue in getting that dream job, what is that costing you?
High Quality Dental Care
Dr. Johnson believes strongly in providing the highest quality care and professionalism to each of his patients. He’ll use your dental consultation as an opportunity to tailor his dentistry solutions to your needs and desires. Contact us to arrange your appointment with Dr. Johnson today.