Dental implant consultation: what to expect
A dental implant consultation assesses your suitability for implants and explains the process, timeline, and cost.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — June 9, 2026
An implant consultation assesses whether implants are right for you and explains the process.
What happens in consultation
- Medical history review — overall health affects candidacy
- X-rays and 3D scans — assess bone quantity and quality
- Tooth and bite exam — assess alignment and occlusion
- Discussion of options — implants vs. bridges vs. dentures
- Timeline and cost — what to expect and cost estimate
Bone assessment
- Adequate bone required — if insufficient, bone graft may be needed
- Bone density matters — soft bone affects success
- No bone loss — implant placement requires integration with bone
Implant timeline
- Extraction (if tooth still present) — requires healing
- Bone integration — 3–6 months (osseointegration)
- Crown placement — the visible tooth
- Healing and adjustment — final fit takes time
Cost factors
- Bone graft — adds to the total if needed
- Surgeon vs. general dentist — specialists may cost more
- One or multiple implants — affects total cost
- Insurance — coverage varies and is often limited; ask the office to check your plan
- Get an itemized estimate — the consultation should end with a written breakdown of each step and its cost
Success factors
- Good oral hygiene — after placement
- Healthy gums — infections threaten implants
- No smoking — smoking impairs healing
- Regular follow-up — dentist monitoring essential
A consultation clarifies whether implants fit your situation and what the commitment entails.
Frequently asked questions
Am I a candidate for implants?
You need adequate bone, good overall health, and good oral hygiene. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, or severe bone loss may be barriers. A dentist will assess.
How long is the implant process?
6–12 months typically. Bone integration takes 3–6 months; then crown placement. Complex cases take longer.