Have you been thinking about getting your missing teeth replaced? If so, then you’ve most likely heard about the numerous benefits that dental implants have to offer. For example, they can last for more than a decade with minimal maintenance, and they make chewing much easier than it would be with dentures or dental bridges. But how can you be sure that dental implants are right for you? While your dentist is the person most qualified to judge whether you’re a good dental implant candidate, these five characteristics usually indicate that you’re eligible.
1. Your Gums Are Healthy
The most common cause of dental implant failure is a type of gum disease called peri-implantitis. If plaque builds up in the mouth, bacteria can attack the gum tissue supporting the implant, causing it to fail. For this reason, you’ll need to get any gum health issues you currently have treated before receiving dental implants.
2. You’re Committed to Your Oral Hygiene
Of course, you’ll also need to maintain healthy gums after your implants have been placed. Just like natural teeth, dental implants must be brushed twice per day and flossed at least once daily. If you’ve already developed good oral hygiene habits before getting dental implants, keeping them up afterward should be no problem at all.
3. You Have a Strong Jaw
Dental implants are able to last so long because they naturally fuse to the jawbone after being surgically placed. This process is called osseointegration. However, if the jawbone is weak – which occurs gradually after tooth loss – then osseointegration might not be possible. Luckily, a bone grafting procedure can strengthen that area of the jawbone, giving your new teeth the strong foundation that they need.
4. You’re Free of Chronic Health Conditions
Certain chronic diseases can reduce the chances of successful dental implant treatment. For example, poorly controlled diabetes can delay the osseointegration process. Other conditions, like sleep apnea and heart disease, can complicate dental implant surgery. Talk to your doctor or dentist about how these conditions will affect your candidacy for dental implants.
5. You Don’t Smoke or Drink Excessively
Smoking not only increases the risk of gum disease, but it also slows healing. That’s why most dentists recommend that patients quit smoking for at least two weeks before dental implant surgery (and if you can get through those two weeks, you should try to quit for good). Excessive alcohol consumption can also impair healing by causing dry mouth and inhibiting blood clots from forming. Your dentist can point you toward the appropriate resources to help you kick these habits.
Even if you don’t meet all of these qualifications, don’t worry! There’s still a good chance that you could become a dental implant candidate. You might simply have to take some extra precautions first. Your dentist will do their utmost to help you enjoy this lifelike, long-lasting tooth replacement solution!
About the Author
Dr. Todd Balington earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. Throughout his 15 years of experience as a dentist, he has helped countless patients recreate their smiles with dental implants in Denton, TX. He partners with the best specialists in the area to ensure high-quality treatment. To find out whether you’re a good dental implant candidate, contact Denton Dental Center at 940-383-3300.