Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are among the most exciting treatments that modern dentistry has made available. They allow for whole-tooth replacement, providing patients with a strong, natural-looking way to fill in the gaps in their smile. However, while most people are good candidates for this treatment, it isn’t ideal for everybody. Let’s take a moment to discuss some of the traits that make someone a great fit for this life-changing procedure.

Adequate Bone to Support the Implants

Once they’re placed, implants form a bond with your body through a process known as osseointegration. This enables them to provide the strongest base possible for your new teeth. It can even prevent future bone loss in the jaw.

However, in order for this bond to succeed, your jaw needs to have adequate bone to support the implants. If imaging tests reveal that your jaw isn’t dense enough or large enough to accept implants, you might need a bone graft to build up your jaw as a preliminary step in your journey to a restored smile.

Excellent Oral Hygiene Habits

The vast majority of implant cases are successful, and that is partially because dentists are careful to make sure that their patients understand how important it is to care for their new teeth. A lack of good oral hygiene may lead to an infection that compromises the implants and causes them to fail. That’s why you should be committed to regular brushing, flossing, and at least biannual trips to your dentist.

It’s also highly recommended that implant candidates do not smoke. Tobacco use can slow down healing after implant surgery and increase the risk of implant failure. This doesn’t mean you can’t get implants if you smoke, but it’s important that you’re aware of the risks associated with the habit.

Decent Oral and Overall Health

Anyone who has gum disease should receive treatment before they undergo dental implant therapy. This is because advanced periodontal disease can ravage the alveolar bone that is there to support the implants, making it difficult, if not impossible, for the implants to succeed.

Your overall health comes into play as well. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or any other disease that slows down healing or affects the immune system may make your implant case more complex than that of people who are free from systemic diseases.

Ready to Find Out for Sure If You’re a Candidate for Implants?

Every person has unique circumstances, which is why you cannot know for sure if you’re a candidate for dental implants without consulting a professional. After asking you some questions and taking a careful look at your mouth, your dentist can tell you if you are able to receive implants and what to expect throughout your tooth replacement journey.

Ready to replace your missing teeth? We encourage you to schedule a consultation with your local implant doctor.

About the Dentist

In 2013, Dr. Chris Richards received his fellowship from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is very experienced in his field and derives great satisfaction from helping his patients to enjoy all of the benefits that implants have to offer. If you would like to ask him if this life-changing treatment is right for you, please contact our office at 972-231-5376 to schedule an appointment.