If you are considering dental implants, you probably have questions. Will the procedure hurt? How long will it take? Am I a good candidate? These are normal concerns. The best way to get answers is through a comprehensive dental implant consultation.
At Chapel Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. James Furgurson provides expert implant care from start to finish. He is one of the few dentists in Chapel Hill with Fellowships in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) and the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD). He also holds a Resnik Implant Institute Fellowship and serves as a faculty member at the Clinical Mastery Series, where he mentors other dentists nationwide.
Here is what you can expect during your dental implant consultation in Chapel Hill.
What Is a Dental Implant Consultation?
A dental implant consultation is your first step toward restoring your smile. It’s a comprehensive evaluation designed to see if dental implants are right for you. The first thing you should know is that this isn’t a quick, five-minute exam. Dr. Furgurson takes the time to understand your oral health, goals, and concerns.
The consultation typically includes:
- A thorough oral health examination
- Advanced digital imaging, including a CBCT (Cone Beam CT) scan
- A review of your medical and dental history
- A discussion of your treatment options
- A personalized treatment plan and cost estimate
New patients should plan on about 90 minutes for their first visit. This allows ample time for a complete evaluation and a thorough conversation about your options.
Step 1: Comprehensive Oral Health Evaluation
The consultation begins with a detailed exam of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Dr. Furgurson will assess:
- Bone density: Your jawbone must be strong enough to support an implant. If you have been missing a tooth for a long time, bone loss may have occurred.
- Gum health: Healthy gums are essential for implant success. Any signs of gum disease must be treated first.
- Overall oral health: Dr. Furgurson will check for cavities, damage to existing teeth, and any other issues that could affect your implant treatment.
If your jawbone is too thin or soft, Dr. Furgurson may recommend a bone graft before proceeding. This additional step ensures your implant has the stability it needs to last for many years.
Step 2: Advanced Imaging and Planning
Dr. Furgurson uses advanced CBCT (Cone Beam CT) technology to create a 3D image of your mouth, teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. This is a critical step for two reasons.
First, it allows him to see exactly where your nerves and sinuses are located. This ensures he can place your implant safely and avoid complications. Second, it allows for precise treatment planning. Your implant specialist places them in the optimal position for long-term stability.
This technology isn’t available in every dental office. It’s a key reason patients choose an expert implant provider like Dr. Furgurson.
Step 3: Discussing Your Treatment Options
After your exam and imaging, Dr. Furgurson will discuss your treatment options. He will explain what’s involved, how long the process will take, and what you can expect.
He offers a full range of implant solutions:
- Single Tooth Implants: Replacing one missing tooth with a single implant and crown.
- Multiple Tooth Implants: Using an implant-supported bridge or partial denture for several missing teeth.
- All-On-“X” Dentures: A full arch of replacement teeth supported by four or more implants.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Traditional dentures that attach securely to implants for improved stability and function.
Dr. Furgurson will help you understand which option best fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Step 4: Personalized Treatment Plan and Cost Estimate
Once you have decided on a treatment path, Dr. Furgurson will create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will outline each step of the process, the timeline, and the total cost.
As an out-of-network provider, we provide a clear, itemized estimate before any work begins. We also explain your financing options, including CareCredit. We believe you should have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your care.
Why Choose Dr. Furgurson for Your Dental Implant Consultation?
Choosing the right provider for your dental implant is one of the most important decisions you will make. Dr. Furgurson’s credentials and approach set him apart:
- Expert Credentials: Dr. Furgurson is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), a distinction earned by few dentists. He also holds Fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and the Resnik Implant Institute. He is a faculty member at Clinical Mastery Series, where he mentors other dentists nationwide.
- Complete Care in One Location: Dr. Furgurson can often handle every step of the implant process in our Chapel Hill office. This means fewer appointments, no referrals to outside specialists, and a consistent care experience.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We take the time to understand your concerns and goals. We explain your options in plain language and involve you in every decision.
- Advanced Technology: From CBCT 3D imaging to digital impressions, we use the latest technology for precise, comfortable, and predictable results.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today
If you are missing one or more teeth, you don’t have to live with gaps in your smile. Dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that can restore your confidence and quality of life.
Call our Chapel Hill office at 919-736-6175 to schedule your consultation. You can also request an appointment online. We proudly serve patients from Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and throughout the Triangle region.
To learn more about our implant dentistry, visit: