(480) 998-3923
Dentists recommend replacing lost teeth as soon as possible to prevent a wide range of oral health complications such as gum disease, dental injuries, and the remaining teeth drifting out of alignment. Thankfully, dental implants look and work just like real teeth, allowing patients to smile confidently while enjoying any food they like. Here’s what can make someone an excellent candidate for dental implants along with a few ways you may be able to become one later on.
Strong Jawbones Provide the Foundation
A major reason why dental implants are so effective is that they are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. There, they fuse with the surrounding bone structure through the natural process of osseointegration, creating a powerful hold that allows them to provide chewing force similar to that of real teeth. To receive dental implants, a person will need to have enough bone mass in their jawbones to accommodate them.
Unfortunately, the bone structure that supports a tooth will begin to atrophy and recede after the tooth is lost. If this goes on long enough, the patient may be left with insufficient bone mass to host dental implants and may also experience oral health issues such as the neighboring teeth sliding out of alignment.
Healthy Gums Provide the Support
To receive dental implants, a patient will need healthy gums and teeth. If left untreated, gum disease and tooth decay can spread to other parts of the mouth, complicating the healing process after dental implant placement and making the implants more likely to fail. These infections are much more likely to happen in smokers. Any gum disease and tooth decay will have to be cleared up before the treatment can proceed.
How Can I Become a Good Dental Implant Candidate?
The good news is that, even if they are not ready to receive implants during their consultation, many patients can become excellent dental implant candidates after undergoing the right treatments and improving their habits. If you do not have sufficient bone density in your jaw, you may be able to reinforce it with bone grafting treatments. If you have untreated gum disease or tooth decay, improving your oral hygiene and receiving restorative treatments from your dentist can resolve it.
Smoking is absolutely horrible for your oral health and is a leading cause of dental implant failure. It’s best to abstain from smoking for a few months before and after receiving implants, and why not quit for good if you have to kick the habit for that long anyway?
Dental implants can be an excellent way to restore your beautiful smile and your oral health. Consulting with your dentist may help you determine the best path to receiving them.
About the Author
Dr. Josh Raiffe earned his dental degree from the Midwestern College of Dental Medicine and is an accredited member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. To stay abreast of the latest developments in the dental field, he participates in continuing education coursework through SPEAR Education. His office in Scottsdale, AZ, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule a dental implant consultation, contact his practice online or dial (480) 998-3923.