Missing teeth can leave you self-conscious, but there are several ways you can get them replaced. A tried-and-true treatment that patients and dentists alike love is dental implants. These are placed and fused to your jawbone, giving stability that other options like dentures don’t have. However, you will need to be a good candidate first. While a consultation can help you learn your eligibility, here are three qualities your provider looks for.
1.) You Keep Up with Your Oral Health
Oral health issues like gum disease or decay can get in the way of a successful treatment, so they will need to be fixed beforehand. Not only that, but your dental hygiene will also be considered. While this tooth replacement can’t get cavities, bacteria can still attack the supporting structures. By brushing and flossing twice daily, you can help make your mouth a healthy foundation.
2.) Your Overall Health Is in Good Standing
Although dental implants are placed in your mouth, your dentist will want to review your overall health. Certain systemic conditions, like cardiovascular disease or diabetes, can slow down your healing. When your recovery is affected, you may be at a higher risk of infection and failure. So, be sure you keep them managed and let your provider know about your medical history; that way, they can better prepare.
Lifestyle habits like smoking will also need to be considered. Using tobacco can increase your risk of gum disease as it impacts your immune system over time. You may also be more prone to jawbone loss, so it can make your implant wobbly. Try to quit completely, or you can talk to your dentist to see if temporarily stopping is right for you.
3.) You Have Enough Jawbone Density
Based on the above, you may be able to guess that your jawbone health will be a factor. In fact, it may be one of the most important ones as the implants are inserted in it. A post will be placed into the bone, and the tissue will need to grow around it for several months. When it can heal without a hitch, then your replacement essentially becomes a permanent part of your oral anatomy.
That being said, some patients may have a dense enough jaw, but others may not. If you find yourself in the latter group, then don’t fret. You may be able to get a bone graft, which will reinforce your jawbone in areas that need it most. That way, they can support the post.
In the end, the only way to know if you’re a good candidate is by talking to your dentist. They will take a look at your oral and overall health to ensure that you can have a successful treatment. If you can’t right away, then they will talk to you about the next steps to get you to a full smile you love.
About the Author
Dr. Jasmine King earned her dental degree from The University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. With nearly 20 years of experience and advanced training, she can complete the entire dental implant process in-house. That way, you stay in Dr. King’s expert care and get to a restored grin you feel your best in. If you want to see if you’re a good candidate for this tooth replacement, schedule an appointment or call her office at (817) 292-7488.