Dental implants are the best solution for those looking to replace missing teeth. Not only do they function and look just like a real tooth, but they can boost your confidence and improve your overall quality of life, too.
While many patients are already enjoying all the benefits that come with dental implants, unfortunately not everyone is a candidate.
Is this solution right for you? Let’s take a look at what an ideal candidate for dental implants looks like.
Good Bone Density
Dental implants undergo the process of osseointegration, meaning they fuse together with the jaw bone. This is what allows them to be a strong anchor for your new artificial tooth. Without the proper bone density, however, they may be unable to offer the right security and support. Due to the high risk of failure, most dentists will recommend alternative options.
The good news is that even with poor bone density, a bone grafting procedure prior to the dental implant can give you just what the dentist needs for candidacy.
Good Oral Health
In addition to having good bone density, the right candidate for dental implants will have good oral health - and overall health, too.
Your dentist will want to make sure that it will be safe for you to undergo oral surgery and heal without infection or other concerns. Any dental or general health issues will be discussed to determine whether or not you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.
Any oral health issues will likely have to be addressed, including signs of gum disease. And any medical issues will need to be under control.
The Right Age
There is no specific age to get dental implants, but most dentists tend to require patients to be at least 18 years of age. Dental implant surgery shouldn’t be performed until all permanent teeth are in and the patient is fully grown. The reason for this is that if any oral development takes place after the implantation, it can cause the implants to fail.
Remember, dental implants are a permanent solution and their support from a fully developed jawbone is crucial for their success.
A Non-Smoker
Smoking on its own is a dangerous habit. Smoking after getting dental implants can interfere with your body’s ability to heal - and the ability of the implant to fuse with the jawbone. In other words, the risk of failure increases with a patient who smokes.
An ideal candidate for dental implants will be a non-smoker.
Dental Implants at Chagrin Falls Dental
Choosing the right dental team for your dental implants is as important as making the decision to get them in the first place. Our dentists at Chagrin Falls Dental have undergone extensive training to perfect their skills in placing precise dental implants. Plus, they always stay up to date on the latest technology and procedures so that our patients have the best experience.
Want to see if you are a candidate for dental implants? Contact us today at 440-247-8641. Or, request an appointment online.