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What Happens at Your Dental Implant Consultation

Dr. Igor Kaplansky, DDS · April 18, 2026 · 5 min read

Medically reviewed by Dr. Igor Kaplansky, DDS — April 18, 2026

A dental implant consultation at a specialist practice is a clinical evaluation, not a sales appointment. You’ll leave with a specific treatment plan, a cost estimate based on your imaging, and answers to every question you brought. At Dentistry by Dr. Kaplansky in Gasport, NY, consultations are offered at no charge.

What the Consultation Covers

Medical and dental history review

The appointment begins with a review of your health history, current medications, and prior dental treatment. This isn’t a formality — specific medications (bisphosphonates, anticoagulants), systemic conditions (diabetes, immune disorders), and previous dental work all affect implant planning and surgical approach.

Patients on medications that affect bone metabolism or healing need specific planning accommodations. Patients with well-controlled systemic conditions — diabetes included — are often excellent implant candidates once those accommodations are understood.

Oral examination

The clinical exam assesses gum health, the condition of remaining teeth, and the anatomy of the implant site. Probing around any existing restorations, checking bite alignment, and evaluating gum tissue quality all inform the treatment plan.

3D CBCT imaging

This is the most important diagnostic step. A cone-beam CT scan produces a three-dimensional map of your jawbone showing:

• Bone volume and density at each potential implant site
• Nerve canal positions — critical for lower arch planning to avoid the inferior alveolar nerve
• Sinus proximity — relevant for upper arch implants
• Existing bone defects or pathology that require treatment before implants

The CBCT is what separates specialist implant planning from a general dentist’s two-dimensional X-ray estimate. It’s the difference between guessing and knowing.

Treatment options discussion

Based on the examination and imaging, Dr. Igor Kaplansky, DDS — Diplomate ABOI/ID, Fellow AAID/FICOI/FAGD, ZAGA Center certified — presents treatment options appropriate for your anatomy. Options discussed may include:

• Single tooth implants
• Implant-supported bridges for multiple missing teeth
• Full-arch systems (All-on-4 or TeethNow) for full-arch cases
• Zygomatic implants for patients with severe upper jaw bone loss
• Preparatory procedures needed before implant placement (extraction, bone grafting, periodontal treatment)

This is the conversation where you find out specifically what applies to your case — not what the website describes in general.

Cost estimate and financing discussion

You receive a specific cost estimate for the recommended treatment plan, a breakdown of components, and information on financing options including CareCredit and in-house payment plans. The estimate is tied to your imaging and treatment plan — it reflects what you actually need, not a range built for all patients.

Your questions

Bring a list. Common questions patients find useful: What is the total timeline? What will recovery feel like? How long will the results last? What happens if I need a preparatory procedure first? Are there options at different price points for my situation?

How to Prepare for the Consultation

Bring:

• A list of all current medications and dosages
• Any prior dental records or X-rays you have access to
• Your insurance card (we’ll review your benefits)
• A list of questions — written down, not remembered in the moment

Arrive without anything that would prevent imaging if needed. If you’ve had significant dental work recently, let the front desk know when you schedule.

What Happens After the Consultation

Most patients leave the consultation with a written treatment plan and timeline. If you decide to proceed, the next steps are scheduling and any necessary preparatory work. If you want time to think or compare options, there’s no pressure — the information is yours to keep.

Dentistry by Dr. Kaplansky serves patients from Gasport, Lockport, Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and across Western New York. Schedule your consultation online or by calling (716) 772-7500.

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Related: Dental Implants Overview · Dental Implant Cost Guide · Before and After Gallery · Frequently Asked Questions