Dental implant consultation — what to expect at your first visit

Key facts

• Bring your medicines list and any previous X-rays
• CBCT 3D scan shows bone, nerves and sinus
• Gum disease is treated before implants
• Options and alternatives are discussed openly
• Written itemised plan — no obligation on the day

Before you arrive: what to bring

Bring a list of your medical conditions and all medicines, including blood thinners, osteoporosis or cancer treatments, diabetes medication and supplements. Recent X-rays or scans from another dentist can be useful, as can any previous treatment notes. If you wear a denture, bring it. Think about your priorities: is it chewing, appearance, a fixed rather than removable solution, the number of visits or your budget? Write down questions in advance. If you are anxious about dental treatment, say so when booking so the team can allow extra time and explain each step. Consultations are available in English and Arabic.

Medical history and examination

The dentist reviews your general health, medicines, smoking and alcohol habits, and any history of radiotherapy or bisphosphonate use, because these affect healing and planning. The mouth is then examined: the gap or failing teeth, the health of the gums and remaining teeth, your bite, signs of grinding, and the shape and thickness of the gum and ridge. Gum disease or decay elsewhere usually needs to be treated before implants. Photos and a digital (intraoral) scan of your teeth are often taken to record your bite and help plan the final tooth shape. Nothing is done without your agreement.

CBCT 3D imaging: why it matters

A standard dental X-ray shows height but not width or the exact position of nerves and the sinus. A CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) scan creates a three-dimensional image of the jaw, so the dentist can measure bone width and height, locate the lower-jaw nerve and the upper sinus, and spot infection, cysts or roots left from earlier extractions. This determines whether an implant can be placed directly, whether grafting or a sinus lift is needed, and which implant size suits the site. The scan takes only a short time, and the dentist shows you the images and explains what they mean for your case.

Discussing options, risks and alternatives

A good consultation covers more than one route. Depending on the findings, options might include a single implant crown, an implant bridge, implant-retained dentures, full-arch fixed teeth, or non-implant alternatives such as a conventional bridge or denture — or simply leaving a gap where that is reasonable. The dentist should explain the expected stages and healing time, the likely number of visits, the risks (such as infection, nerve injury, sinus problems or implant failure) and what maintenance is needed afterwards. You should feel free to ask questions and take time to decide; there is no obligation to book treatment on the day.

Your written plan and quote

After the assessment you receive a written, itemised treatment plan describing each stage — for example extractions, grafting, implant placement, abutments, temporary teeth and the final crown, bridge or denture — with the associated fees and an estimated timeline. Cost depends on the number of implants, whether grafting or a sinus lift is needed, the type and material of the final restoration and any preparatory treatment, which is why fees are only confirmed after examination and imaging. Ask what is included in reviews and aftercare. At Manhal, the plan is explained by Dr. Manhal Helfawee, with Dr. Moataz Al-Khan involved where surgery is complex.

A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth with a biocompatible titanium post that bonds with the jawbone. Once integrated, it supports a crown that looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth, and it helps prevent the bone loss that follows an extraction.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Manhal Helfawee, Dr. Moataz Al-Khan

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.