If you have missing teeth, your research for replacement options is liable to lead you to a singular conclusion – dental implants are the best option. But are they YOUR best option? From preventing bone loss to restoring bite force to maintaining the shape of your face, there are so many benefits that come with a commitment to dental implants. A major factor in the decision is whether they are right for you specifically. Keep reading to learn if you are a viable dental implant candidate from your dentist in Midlothian.
Gums Are Healthy
Dental implants derive their stability from surgical insertion into the jawbone and the subsequent osseointegration. Your gums help keep them firmly anchored. However, if your gums are compromised in any way, they won’t effectively hold the titanium post in place. Therefore, patients with gum disease will need to undergo periodontal therapy before becoming eligible for implants. Otherwise, bacteria can attack the bone supporting the implant, causing it to fail.
Oral Hygiene Is a Priority
For dental implants to succeed and for the surrounding gums to be healthy, good oral hygiene is crucial. The implants are relatively low maintenance once they are fused to your jawbone, but proper dental care is necessary to prevent complications. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, rinsing with mouthwash, and regularly visiting your dentist will help you enjoy your new smile for years to come!
No Excessive Alcohol Use or Smoking
When you use alcohol or tobacco it can decrease your body’s ability to heal properly. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause dry mouth, inhibit blood clotting, and even lead to bone loss. Smoking increases your chances of developing gum disease and can also contribute to bone loss, potentially resulting in implant failure.
General Health Outlook Is Good
A person with a chronic disease is at greater risk of dental implant failure. For example, patients with diabetes have a higher rate of implant failure because their condition interferes with osseointegration and slows the healing process. Heart disease and sleep apnea can interfere with anesthesia, which could create complications during surgery. Therefore, a dental implant candidate should ideally be free from chronic diseases.
Bone Density Is Adequate
A patient must have sufficient jawbone density for a successful implant procedure since they are anchored into the jaw. The fusion of implants to the bone, aka osseointegration, is a crucial part of the process, as it ensures your implants stay in place permanently to provide unmatched stability and a strong bite force. However, if you don’t have an adequate amount of bone, your implants can become loose or fail. Fortunately, you can undergo a bone graft to create more area for implant placement, thus improving your candidacy.
If you meet all these criteria, congratulations, you can now make a smile-changing decision. If not, you still can make strides in your oral health to the point where you can be deemed an excellent dental implant candidate!
About the Practice
At Legacy Dentistry, we strive to make anxious patients comfortable, as we offer pain-free injections and various sedation dentistry options: oral conscious, nitrous oxide (free), or intravenous. Each one of our treatment rooms has massage chairs and TVs. As a privately owned dental office, our dentists can make your satisfaction their number-one goal. If you are interested in dental implants, we perform the entire treatment at our office location. Ask about implant dentures and mini dental implants. To get started, schedule a dental consultation on our website or by calling (972) 723-1148.