Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the most effective way to replace missing teeth. Having a missing tooth or teeth can affect an individual’s oral health and the structure of the mouth. Failing to replace missing teeth can interfere with the ability to chew, and it can change an individual’s smile.

Your dentist can help restore your health and smile. Dental implant treatment involves gum tissues and the underlying bone. You can find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Good Oral Health

To be a good candidate for dental implants, you need to have good oral health. For the procedure to be successful, the patient needs to have healthy bone and underlying tissue. This means that your gums and teeth should be healthy.

To get dental implants, you should not have existing periodontal disease. Your dentist will carry out an examination to ensure that you are in good shape to get dental implants.

Adequate Jawbone

The dental implants need to be supported by the jawbone. This means that to be a good candidate for the procedure, you need to have adequate jawbone. Good bone density will help create a good base for the implant.

A strong jawbone will support the implant adequately once it is installed. If the jawbone is weak, the implant can become loose from chewing activity. In some situations, periodontists may perform bone grafting before dental implants can be installed.

Proper Oral Hygiene

The long-term success of dental implant treatment will depend on your ability to take good care of your oral hygiene. Proper oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining good oral health. The dentist will evaluate the reason for the missing teeth.

If tooth loss was due to gum disease from poor oral hygiene, you need to deal with the underlying cause first. To be a good candidate for implants, you should brush and floss every day.

Be a Non-smoker

A good candidate for a dental implant is someone who does not smoke. Smoking is a habit that can affect the healing process after a dental procedure. Smoking also increases the risk of infection during and after treatment.

Before getting dental implants, you will need to quit the habit. If you have been a smoker for a long time, your oral condition may be compromised. The dentist will need to evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums to determine if dental implants are viable.

You Need to Be Patient

When it comes to dental implant treatment, patience is a virtue. Dental implant treatment can take between four to 12 months for complete installation and healing. This is not a procedure for those who want quick results.

If you need bone grafts, you will need several months to allow the grafting to heal. It also takes time for the gums to heal after installing the implant. When planning the implant procedure, think about the time commitment.

If you are considering getting dental implants, talk to your dentist about the treatment option. The dentist will evaluate your oral condition and will recommend the best treatment. The dentist will help determine where the implant will be placed depending on the implant type selected.

For more on being a good candidate for dental implants, visit Today's Family Dental at our office in Tampa or Lutz, Florida. You can call (813) 212-8700 today to schedule an appointment.