Getting dental implants is a big decision. While the procedure provides incredible results, it isn’t one that should be taken lightly. In fact, patients who are thinking about getting dental implants should consider all of the benefits and risks before coming to a conclusion. Patients should also take the time to find the best implant dentist to ensure the results are successful and natural-looking.

Here are four things to look for in an implant dentist:

1. Experience and Training

Fortunately those living in the Grove, OK area have Dr. Karl Jobst as an implant dentist option. Since graduating from dental school in 1998, Dr. Jobst has completed several years of training in oral implantology. He has earned Fellowship from the International College of Oral Implantology and completed a one-year program at the University of Oklahoma College of Dental Medicine in Implantology.

Dr. Jobst’s top priority is exceeding patient expectations in all aspects of the dental experience. This includes patient comfort, patient care, procedure experience, and surgical outcomes. He recognizes that each patient is unique and treats each one with the utmost respect and care.

2. Portfolio

When searching for an implant dentist, be sure to see before-and-after photos of their previous patients. These will give you an idea of the quality of work the dentist provides.

To see  patient photos from our implant dentist, check out the Smile Gallery on our website.

3. Patient Testimonials

The best way to determine if an implant dentist is trustworthy, kind, and worth seeing is to read their patient reviews. These can be found on the dentist’s website, Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Try to find testimonials from patients who have undergone a dental implant procedure.

Here’s a review from one of our satisfied patients:

“I have been coming to Dr. Jobst since 2001 and he is the best dentist I have ever had experience with. So good, in fact, that even after moving to Texas three years ago, I still will make the 9-hour drive back to Grove just to keep him as my dentist. Sure, it would be easier to use a dentist where I am currently living, but I know it wouldn't compare to Dr. Jobst and his team. Trust me, I have tried! He truly cares about his patients and I know I am in great hands with him. He has done extensive dental work on me including braces, implants, extractions, root canals, etc. In case you were wondering, my mouth has been challenging to say the least. However, my smile shines! Try Grand Lake Dental-you will not be disappointed!!”  --LeeAnn U.

4. Patient comfort priority

As with most dental procedures, dentists use a local anesthetic to numb the incision site. While local anesthesia will reduce or eliminate pain, it isn’t always enough for patients—especially those who suffer from dental fear and anxiety. Although dental implant surgery is a relatively simple procedure on its own, any surgery can raise stress or anxiety levels.

To combat these feelings and help patients achieve a state of relaxation, Dr. Jobst offers three sedation dentistry options:

·         Oral sedation: This type of dental sedation requires the patient to take a pill 30 minutes before their procedure. The patient will remain awake, but he or she will feel relaxed and care-free. With oral sedation, a friend or family member will need to drive the patient home.

·         Nitrous oxide: Commonly called laughing gas, nitrous oxide puts the patient in a dream-like state. Once the procedure is complete, the dentist will administer oxygen to rid the nitrous oxide from his or her system so the patient can drive home on their own.

·         IV Sedation: The highest form of dental sedation is called intravenous sedation. Patients must not eat or drink anything during the 8 hours before the procedure. During the dental implant surgery, the patient will remain in a light sleep state and will likely not remember the surgery at all. Someone will need to drive the patient home.

Each of these sedation options are combined with local anesthesia to reduce pain and discomfort as well as fear and anxiety.

Dr. Jobst will converse with you about your level of fear and/or anxiety to determine which type of dental sedation is best for you.

It’s important to find an implant dentist who is educated, trained, and experienced in administering these medications. Dr. Jobst completed a post-graduate program in anesthesiology, so you can trust him to provide this service in a safe and effective manner.

Continue reading to learn what to expect from Dr. Jobst during the dental implant procedure process.

The Consultation

Before a patient can receive dental implants, he must attend a consultation appointment with the implant dentist. At this appointment, Dr. Jobst reviews the patient’s medical history and completes an oral examination. The oral exam includes inspection and diagnostic imaging. Based on this assessment, Dr. Jobst determines whether or not the patient is a good candidate for dental implants.

To be considered for dental implants, a patient must:

·         Be free of cavities and gum disease

·         Be in good overall health

·         Not smoke or use other tobacco products

·         Have sufficient jawbone density

Additionally, dental implant patients must be willing to follow the post-surgical guidelines and undergo months of healing. The dental implant process can take up to 18 months so the procedure should be thoroughly considered.

Your implant dentist will discuss the pros and cons of the dental implant procedure so you can make the best decision for your oral health.

Another reason to choose Dr. Jobst as your implant dentist is that he can perform bone graft surgery or sinus lifts for patients who don’t have enough jawbone density. Don’t count yourself out if you don’t meet all the requirements, Dr. Jobst may still be able to perform the implant surgery. The best way to find out is the schedule an initial consultation!

Dental Implant Surgery

When you choose an experienced implant dentist, dental implant surgery has far less risks and patients experience minimal pain. On the day of surgery, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to keep you from feeling any pain. Dental sedation is also an option for patients with severe dental fear or anxiety.

To place the dental implant, the implant dentist will make a small incision in your gumline and insert the titanium implant into the jawbone. This doesn’t just secure the implant; it encourages jawbone regeneration.

Once the implant is secure in the jawbone, the dentist will close the incision. Now begins the three- to six-month healing period, often referred to as osseointegration. During this time, the jawbone and dental implant integrate with one another.

Once the mouth has completely healed, Dr. Jobst will place the abutment and restoration. The prosthetic tooth or teeth are designed specifically for your smile, so it looks beautiful and natural.

Throughout this process, Dr. Jobst will communicate openly with you and make sure your recovery process goes as smoothly as possible and ensure the results are everything you hoped for and more.

Find Your Implant Dentist Today

If you’re searching for an experienced, qualified dentist who prioritizes his patients’ comfort and experience, look no further! Dr. Karl Jobst is prepared to help you improve the health and appearance of your smile.

Call our Grove, OK office today at (918) 787-5800 to schedule an initial consultation.