Candidates for Dental Implants

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, many patients choose to have dental implants to resolve their tooth loss problems. Although dental bridges and dentures are available, implants are more reliable and durable. While it’s true that the demand for implants is high, only those who qualify can get them. If you want to understand how you can become a candidate for dental implants, here’s what you should know.
 

Free of Periodontal Disease

If your dentist finds signs of advanced periodontitis, you may not qualify for dental implants. At this stage of the gum disease, your jawbone and gums have already deteriorated. Your dental implants will not have proper support. In case you have mild to moderate periodontitis, your dental specialist must treat this issue first before proceeding to your dental implant placement.
 

Enough Bone Mass

A dental implant’s success relies on strong support from your jawbone. Remember that the titanium post of the implant needs to anchor into your jawbone. Then, it should bond with your bone and gums to stay firm and strong. If you have good bone mass in your jawbone, you can get the implant without issue. However, if you have reduced bone density in your jawbone, then you should receive a bone graft first. This is to ensure you have enough bone density for osseointegration with the implant. If you are having a tooth removed and unsure if you would like to have a dental implant, your dentist can perform a procedure called socket preservation to ensure you have the option in the future. Usually, when a tooth is removed, your bone in the area will shrink and lead to the inadequate bone for implant placement. In order to prevent that from happening, your dentist can place a bone graft via socket preservation when you have your tooth removed. This will help to maintain bone in the area and allow you to keep your options open for implant placement in the future. After healing from your bone grafting procedure, you are ready for your dental implant.
 

Realistic Expectations

Before you decide to get dental implants, make sure that you read about the possible complications, risks, and time frame. Each case is unique. One patient could get implants immediately, while others go through a series of treatments first. You could even take longer to heal than other patients.
 

Non-Smoker/Non-Drinker

Studies show that alcoholic beverages and tobacco can delay healing after any type of surgery. These substances interrupt your blood circulation and oxygenation. If your surgical incisions do not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, you will not heal right away. Another negative effect is that your immune system fails to function properly. Because of poor circulation, your immune system becomes too weak to fight infection. This impairs your normal healing process. That is why dental specialists tell their patients to stop smoking and drinking alcohol. It is crucial to take this step to have successful dental implants.
 

Getting implants may take time. If you are a good candidate, be ready to wait. Doing so ensures the success of your new smile. At Hamlin Modern Dentistry, we guide our patients carefully through the processes involved in getting their dental implants. Please visit our clinic in Winter Garden, Florida, for an in-person consultation. You can also call us at 407-993-6370 if you want to schedule an appointment or ask questions about dental implants.

References:

http://marketplace.ada.org/blog/should-i-get-dental-implants-see-if-youre-the-perfect-candidate/

https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/characteristics-of-a-candidate-for-dental-implants