Dental implants are an effective technique to replace missing natural teeth when dentures or bridges are not an option. However, if you lose all your natural teeth, dental implants allow you to use a few implants to support a permanent denture or bridge.
Dental implants, since they naturally bond with your jawbone, provide a secure and long-lasting substitute for your lost tooth or teeth. But how can you know if you are a suitable candidate for dental implant treatments? Here are a few prerequisites for using implant technology to restore your confident smile.
You Have Enough Bone Density in Your Jaw
You must have enough bone density in your jaw to be a good candidate for implant placement. Because your jawbone will sustain the surgery, an implant may not be an option if there is insufficient bone in the damaged area.
However, you can still have dental implants if you have a bone graft. A bone graft is when your dentist uses the natural or artificial bone to help strengthen the bone sufficiently to handle a dental implant in the spot where your missing tooth is located. You will be able to sustain an implant and consider dental implants as a restoration option once your jaw has healed and the bone has fused with your own.
You Have Good Oral Health
To be eligible for dental implants, you must have good oral health. For you to have a successful implant operation, your smile must be free of tooth decay and gum disease. However, your dentist will also consider your overall health before doing the treatment.
Even if you have preexisting tooth decay or periodontitis, you can still qualify for dental implants by addressing these underlying conditions. You can proceed with the dental implant surgery once your mouth is healthy and your dentist determines that you have adequate jawbone to sustain the implant.
You Don’t Smoke or Chew Tobacco
Those who do not smoke or chew tobacco are the ideal candidates for dental implants. It is because smokers are more likely to have their dental implants fail since the substances in tobacco smoke and chewing tobacco can impede the recovery process.
If you smoke, you may still be eligible for implants; however, you must refrain from smoking as much as possible before, during, and after the treatment while your mouth recovers. If you’re a current smoker who wants to quit, talk to your dentist about extra options and solutions to help you break the habit for good.
You Are Above 18 years of Age
Because dental implants are permanent and need proper jawbone support, they are not suggested for children who may not have all of their adult teeth or are not yet fully developed. Any alteration in your dental development could jeopardize the effectiveness of your dental implant. Consult your child’s pediatric dentist if he or she has lost an adult tooth.
You Don’t Have Uncontrolled Chronic Disorders
Chronic diseases, like diabetes or heart disease, may increase the chance of infection and hinder wound repair, compromising the efficacy of dental implants. Other health conditions that may increase the likelihood of dental implant failure include leukemia, bone cancer, hypothyroidism, blood illnesses, and radiation treatment.
Find Out If You Are Suitable for Dental Implants
Dental implants signify a long-term investment in your oral health. You’ll need to keep your mouth healthy for the operation and care for your implant as you care for your natural teeth for your entire life. Are dental implants a good option for you? Make an appointment with your trusted dentist now to find out.
