What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Posted on: 9 November 2023
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Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your smile and also lead to a variety of oral health problems. Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting ways to replace missing teeth. They offer the look, feel, and function of natural teeth and can help restore your confidence and oral health. However, dental implants are not right for everyone. Read about the key factors that make someone a good candidate for dental implants.
Good Oral Health
To be a good candidate for dental implants, you should have good oral health. You need healthy gums, strong jaw bones, and no signs of periodontal disease. If you have gum disease or other oral health issues, your dentist must treat these before proceeding with implant surgery. It’s important to maintain excellent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Smoking can also increase the risk of implant failure, so it’s important to quit smoking before undergoing implant surgery.
Sufficient Bone Density
Dental implants require sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant and anchor it in place. If you have low bone density, your dentist may recommend bone augmentation procedures such as bone grafting or a sinus lift to increase bone mass. These procedures can help create a strong foundation for the implant and increase the chances of success.
Age
There is no age limit for dental implants, but younger patients may not be good candidates as their jawbones are still growing and developing. The ideal candidate for dental implants is someone with a fully developed jaw bone. However, implants can be successful for older patients as well, as long as they are in good health and have sufficient bone density.
Systemic Health Conditions
Certain systemic health conditions can affect the success of dental implants. Uncontrolled diabetes, for example, can increase the risk of implant failure. Patients with autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may also not be good candidates for implants due to the risk of implant rejection. It’s important to discuss any systemic health conditions with your dentist to determine if dental implant surgery is appropriate for you.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Dental implants require ongoing care and maintenance, just like natural teeth. You must be committed to a good oral hygiene routine that includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Your dentist will provide you with specific care instructions for your implants, and it’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the long-term success of your implants.
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your confidence and oral health. Learn more about dental implants today.