I am getting dental implants. I had the bone grafting done. Now, I have just recently had the dental implants placed and am dealing with the healing process and something called osseointegration. I was thrilled with everything. Now for the glitch. I just got an offer for the job of my dreams. I cannot wait to accept. I am just wondering what to do about my dental implants. Can I continue them with another dentist or will I need to travel back and forth? It is quite a distance. If I can get them in my new state, how would payments work? I have already paid in full with my current dentist.
Martha
Dear Martha,
Congratulations on your dream job. That is awesome. First, you should be assured that this type of thing happens all the time and dentists are used to dealing with situations like this. He or she can share all their diagnostics and treatment notes. One thing I would do is have your dentist check the healing process now and again right before you move.
It sounds like you are pleased with your dentist’s work. In that case, I would ask him to recommend someone in your new area. If he doesn’t know anyone, then look for someone with post-doctoral training in dental implants to ensure the new dentist has the skills to do the job correctly.
Because the new dentist will be doing mostly the restorations, I would take the additional step of making sure they are a skilled cosmetic dentist. This way the smile you get will be completely beautiful.
As far as payment goes, he will not bill the insurance until the job is complete. If you have paid your portion upfront, then he should not have any problem reimbursing you for this part.
I hope this helps you feel at peace about your new, awesome job. You are good to accept it and move to wherever the job takes you. You will not need to drive back and forth to your old dentist to complete this procedure.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Fred Arnold.