Who Makes a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants have become more popular than ever. This option for smile restoration offers numerous benefits. First, for most patients, the results are permanent and will last a lifetime. Implants are very durable, much more so than other tooth-replacement treatments. In addition, dental implants are very natural looking; most people are not able to tell that another person's implant is not a real tooth.

Dental implants are one of the only options that can also help prevent bone loss. This can be one of the most important benefits to consider. Implants continuously stimulate the jaw bone, preventing eventual deterioration that can lead to weakness, pain, and visible changes in face shape.

The American Dental Association cites that over 65% of Americans are missing at least one tooth. Implants can replace one or many teeth, so they are a viable option for countless patients. To learn more about these dental prostheses and to decide whether or not they are right for you, consider these three facts. 

3 considerations for dental implants

Unfortunately, not every patient is a candidate for a dental implant. There are specific criteria that a patient must meet before a dentist can place one. Patients must have healthy gums and jawbone, and they must also comply with the treatment process. Learn more about what makes a patient eligible to receive this type of dental prosthesis.

Adequate bone support

Typically, patients lose teeth from dental decay or periodontal disease. Either of these conditions can wreak havoc on the jawbone. 

Dental decay can cause abscesses that eat away healthy jawbone. This bone does not regrow, so a patient should seek treatment for an infected tooth as soon as possible. If left untreated, the infection destroys more bone over time.

Gum disease is a chronic condition that destroys the gums and bone supporting the teeth. If the patient does not receive treatment, it leads to severe bone loss. If a tooth does not have enough bone support, it becomes loose. Eventually, the tooth may fall out, or a dentist may have to extract it. 

The dentist must evaluate the patient's bone density to determine if enough bone is present for implant placement. If not, the patient may need a bone grafting procedure.

Stable medical condition

Patients should be in good health before undergoing dental surgery. A patient should disclose all medical history to a dentist at the initial consultation. 

Some medical conditions can complicate dental treatment. For example, a patient with uncontrolled diabetes may have issues with healing after dental implant placement. Tobacco users also have more complications after dental surgery due to impaired healing. Also, patients who take certain medications, such as IV treatments for osteoporosis, may not be eligible for implant surgery.

The dentist must examine the patient's medical history to determine if the patient is a candidate for this procedure. If the patient is ineligible, the dentist may recommend alternatives such as dental bridges or partial dentures.

Patient compliance

There are multiple steps involved in dental implant placement. First, the dentist places the screw into the jawbone. The site is covered and left to heal for three to six months. Then, the dentist uncovers the prosthesis and attaches an abutment and crown to it. Patients should know the time frame for getting dental implants can be lengthy. Therefore, patients must be willing and able to make all appointments and follow recommended treatment protocols. 

Conclusion

For many patients, dental implants are the right treatment option. Patients interested in this procedure should set up a consultation with a dentist. At the evaluation appointment, the dentist can help the patient decide if they are an ideal candidate for dental implant placement. In general, a  person must be in good health and have sufficient bone support. In some situations, bone grafting can be used to provide a stable foundation for dental implants.

In addition, patients must be willing to take good care of their teeth and implants, especially during the first few weeks of recovery. This includes maintaining proper dental hygiene, eating the right foods, and avoiding practices that could slow down or inhibit proper healing. Patients should not smoke and should limit or avoid alcohol during this time.

If you want a durable, dependable, and natural-looking solution for your tooth damage or loss, dental implants could be an excellent choice. Talk with your dentist today to start the process of restoring your smile for healthier and more beautiful teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://gallodental.com or call GDC Smiles at (770) 504-5725 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.

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