Considering Dental Implants? What are the top 9 things to ask a Periodontist in Buffalo, NY

1. "Am I actually a good candidate for a dental implant?"

Not everyone is a great candidate. Your periodontist will need to evaluate your overall health, lifestyle habits (like smoking, which can hinder healing), and jawbone density. Our staff is pretty good at placing dental implants for higher risk cases and for people who have been told that they can't get one by other offices.

2. "How many of these procedures have you done?"

You want a seasoned pro. Experience matters. Having the right tools in case something goes wrong matters. Our office places over 1,000 implants per year.

3. "Do I need a bone graft or a sinus lift first?"

If a tooth has been missing for a while, the jawbone underneath tends to shrink. Ask if you have enough bone volume to support the implant. If you don't, you may just need a bone graft to build up a solid foundation.

4. "What is the step-by-step timeline for my specific case?"

Spoiler alert: you usually don't walk in with a missing tooth and walk out with a permanent new one the same day. The process takes time. Ask how long the healing phase (osseointegration) will take and whether you will have a temporary tooth in place so you don't have to sport a gap in the meantime.

Pro Tip: Make sure to ask about the total number of appointments required so you can plan your work schedule or personal life accordingly.

5. "What material is the implant made of, and why?"

Most implants are made of titanium because of its biocompatibility (your bone literally fuses to it). However, zirconia (ceramic) is sometimes an option for people with metal allergies or specific aesthetic preferences.

6. "What are the potential risks or complications I should know about?"

No surgery is entirely risk-free. Ask about potential nerve damage, infection, or implant rejection. A good periodontist will be completely transparent with you about these risks and explain how they work to minimize them.

7. "What does the recovery process look like?"

You’ll want to know what to expect the week after surgery. How much pain or swelling is normal? What kind of soft-food diet will you need to follow? When can you return to the gym? Getting these answers ahead of time lets you stock your fridge with smoothies and soup in advance.

8. "How do I take care of the implant long-term?"

Implants can't get cavities, but the gum and bone surrounding them can still get diseased (a condition called peri-implantitis). Ask if you need special floss, specific mouthwashes, or more frequent cleanings to protect your investment.

9. "What is the total cost, and what happens if the implant fails?"

Get a clear financial breakdown. Remember that the implant is the part below the gums. The parts that show when you smile are the crown abutment. They are a separate price. (Our office can place a crown and abutment for you if you don't have a regular general dentist. The price for the crown and abutment is separate). Additionally, ask what their policy is if the implant doesn't fuse properly the first time.

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Final Thoughts

A great periodontist won't just welcome these questions—they will expect them. Your comfort, clarity, and peace of mind are just as important as the surgery itself.

We offer free Dental Implant consultations and are here to help. You can call us at 716-882-3777.

Dr. Farber is a board-certified periodontist in Buffalo NY. He and his staff welcome questions. Dr. Farber says that patients who ask questions have smooth recoveries because they know exactly what to expect : )