Guide 4 · Questions to ask
Build your question list
Tick the questions that matter to you, add your own, and print or download a one-page list for the appointment.
How this works
Tick any question below and it goes on your list. Questions you add from the other guides show up here too. Your list is saved only in this browser. Nothing is sent to us or anyone else.
You won't need all of these. Most people find five to ten well-chosen questions plenty for one visit. Put the ones that worry you most at the top, because appointments have a way of running short.
About my diagnosis
Start here. Understanding what the dentist found makes every other answer easier to follow.
About the options
An implant is one way to replace a tooth. Hearing the others makes the recommendation easier to judge.
About risks and limits
Every surgery carries some risk. A good answer is specific to you, not a general reassurance.
About timing and healing
About costs
About comfort and the day itself
About the long term
Common questions
How many questions should I bring?
Five to ten focused questions is a practical amount for one appointment. Put the ones you care about most at the top. The dentist will explain a lot without being asked, so your list mainly catches what's left.
Is it OK to get a second opinion?
Yes. A second opinion is a normal part of dental care, especially for surgical treatment. Ask for copies of your imaging and records so the second dentist doesn't have to repeat them.
Should I ask about alternatives to implants?
Yes. Hearing about bridges, partial dentures and doing nothing for now helps you weigh things like longevity, function, appearance and cost against your own priorities.
Is my question list sent anywhere?
No. The list is stored only in your browser on this device. Clearing your browser data or pressing "Clear" removes it.
References
- Chrcanovic BR, Albrektsson T, Wennerberg A. Smoking and dental implants: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Dent. 2015;43(5):487-498.
- Heitz-Mayfield LJA. Peri-implant diseases: diagnosis and risk indicators. J Clin Periodontol. 2008;35(8 Suppl):292-304.
- Esposito M, Grusovin MG, Maghaireh H, Worthington HV. Interventions for replacing missing teeth: different times for loading dental implants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(3):CD003878.
- Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. Standard of Practice: Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia in Dental Practice. https://www.rcdso.org
- Tyndall DA, Price JB, Tetradis S, Ganz SD, Hildebolt C, Scarfe WC. Position statement of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology on selection criteria for the use of radiology in dental implantology with emphasis on cone beam computed tomography. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol. 2012;113(6):817-826.
Keep reading
Guide 1 · The appointment
What happens at a consultation
History, exam, imaging and the options talk, step by step, so nothing in the room is a surprise.
Guide 5 · Timeline
Treatment timeline
From consultation to final tooth: the stages, what adds time, and where temporary teeth fit in.
Guide 6 · Surgery day
Preparing for surgery
A practical checklist for the week before, the day itself and the first few days at home.