Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Since they replace the roots of the missing teeth, they allow for a wide range of benefits that you can’t experience from traditional dentures or dental implants. To achieve this, getting dental implants requires a multi-step process that takes place over the course of several months, so no everyone is initially a good candidate. Read on to learn about the characteristics that are necessary to be a good candidate for dental implants.
Excellent Dental Hygiene
If you don’t take care of your smile now, how will your dentist know that you will after your dental implants are placed? Dental implants need to be well maintained to be successful. This means brushing twice and flossing every day. Rinsing with mouthwash is another helpful step to fight against harmful bacteria. With healthy surrounding teeth, your dental implants are more likely to last.
Healthy Gums
You are more likely to develop gum disease when you have dental implants than when you have natural teeth. When you have buildups of plaque along the gumline, an infection can develop. Over time, pockets will form between the teeth and gums where harmful bacteria collect. In the end, if you don’t receive treatment, the bacteria will attack the bone that supports your implant. Healthy gum tissue is required to support a healthy implant.
Sufficient Jawbone
Dental implants need to be firmly anchored into the jawbone. They fuse together in a process called “osseointegration.” However, when you are missing teeth, the jawbone isn’t being stimulated by regular biting and chewing, so it is reabsorbed by the body. Ultimately, you will experience bone loss. It can even shrink to the point where it can no longer properly support an implant. At this point, bone grafting is necessary, or you will need to choose another tooth replacement option.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
If you have a habit of smoking or drinking heavily, you will need to avoid this during the dental implant process. This is because smoking doubles your risk of developing gum disease and slows down the healing process. If you smoke before your surgery, this can contribute to bone loss and make it more challenging for the dental implants to be placed. Drinking excessively can also interfere with the healing process by causing dry mouth and inhibiting the formation of blood clots.
Good General Health
Some chronic diseases can create further risks for patients during dental implant surgery. For instance, if you have diabetes, you may be more likely to experience dental implant failure. This is because diabetes makes it more difficult for the body to prevent and fight against infections. It can also interfere with the osseointegration process. You should discuss any medical conditions with your dentist ahead of time.
To find out if dental implants are the right tooth replacement option for you, schedule a consultation with your dentist. This way, they can examine your smile and put together a plan to meet your needs and give you your smile back!
About the Author
Dr. Tracy Morales earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Currently, she is affiliated with numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, American Academy of Facial Esthetics, Texas Dental Association, Fort Worth District Dental Society, American Academy of Clear Aligners, and the Academy of Laser Dentistry. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call (817) 214-3333.
