Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

If you have one or more missing teeth and are looking for restorative solutions, you may have heard that dental implants are the best treatment. 

And, that's true. 

Implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone, providing a very strong foundation for the dental crown. As a result, your artificial tooth will be anchored in your jaw, allowing you to eat, speak, and eat normally. Moreover, because the implant acts as the tooth's root, it also stimulates the bone, preventing bone mass loss. 

Unfortunately, not anyone is a good candidate for implants. Here's what dentists check to ensure implants are right for you. 

You Must Have Enough Bone Density 

This is a big MUST when it comes to dental implants. As we explained, the implant gets inserted into the jawbone where it fuses with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration.

If there's not enough bone mass, the implant won't have enough tissue to integrate with and it's likely to fail. 

Fortunately, if bone mass is a problem, you may get a bone graft to create the necessary foundation to support the implant. 

You Need Good Oral Health 

While a few minor cavities won't really pose a problem and can be addressed as you go, healthy gums are essential for the success of an implant. 

If you have gingivitis or periodontal disease, you must address these issues first and achieve adequate oral health before you can proceed with the dental implant. 

You Don't Smoke or Are Willing to Quit 

Smoking can negatively impact the healing process and the long-term success of the implant. Your dentist will advise you to stop smoking at least during the osseointegration process when the implant fuses with the jawbone. Continuing smoking may affect the implant and lead to failure. 

You Have Good Overall Health 

It may come as a surprise to many, but your overall health and your oral health are interconnected. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and certain medications like bisphosphonates may hinder the body's ability to heal and integrate the implant.

You Are Patient

Getting a dental implant is a lengthy process. First, you need to fix any oral issues that may affect the integrity of the implant, and that can take anywhere between a few weeks to a few months. Then you need to wait until the implant integrates with your jaw bone, and that alone can take between six and nine months. Finally, you have to wait for the custom dental crown to be created and that can take an additional two weeks. 

You also need to be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

Find Out If Implants Are Right for You! 

The best way to determine if Justin dental implants are right for you is to schedule an appointment with one of the dentists at Valor Dental. 

You can do it by sending a message online or by calling us at (214) 254-3763.