Replacing a tooth can be accomplished with a dental implant, which acts as a root replacement to prevent bone shrinkage and preserve surrounding tissue. It will typically take multiple appointments for your doctor to place an implant. The first appointment can vary in time and complexity, so it's best to ask in advance how much time your first appointment will take. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to complete any required new patient forms. Sometimes these forms can be emailed or downloaded from a website in advance. Even though your doctor referred you, the surgical specialist may need additional records to develop the treatment plan successfully. Your specialist may begin with an interview where you will discuss your medical history, including any medications and contact information for your primary care physician. Additional dental x-rays, photographs, or impressions may be needed to examine your teeth and root structure in more detail and to evaluate the bones supporting and surrounding the teeth. Today's modern x-ray machines emit virtually no radiation, no more than you would receive from a day in the sun or a weekend watching TV, but as a precaution, a lead apron will be placed over you. A full series of photographs may also be taken of your upper and lower arch, inside of your mouth and of your full face and profile photographs. Allow your specialist to create a visual record of the appearance and condition of your teeth at the time of examination. Your specialist may also conduct a visual and hands-on probing to check the structural health of your teeth and the vitality of your gum tissue, noting any areas of concern. If an occlusal exam is conducted, your entire chewing system will be looked at and how your teeth touch and come together. This helps evaluate the overall health and alignment of your bite once all aspects of the exam are completed. Your doctor will review the findings and discuss the treatment plan with you. Be sure to ask questions about your procedure or what to expect. Your specialist or a member of the team will be happy to explain. You may also meet with a patient coordinator to discuss scheduling surgery, dental benefits, financial options, and lifestyle instructions. With your first implant appointment complete, your tooth is on its way to be restored to optimal shape and function while continuing to stabilize, protect, and preserve the surrounding bone and tissue.