Dental implants are without doubt one of the most popular dental solutions of the modern age. This revolutionary treatment can be used to replace not only single missing teeth, but also to support bridges, partial and full dentures. This is because all of these restorations can be successfully supported on dental implant posts.
Dental implant posts are titanium posts that are surgically positioned into the jawbone. Each implant post is planned with complete precision so that it is in a supporting position without having any negative effect on nerves or other structures within the jaw. The bone will then heal around the implant to secure it in place. Single replacement teeth (crowns) can be placed onto single implant posts. Meanwhile, two implant posts are typically needed to support a bridge, whilst a full denture can be supported on between four and eight implant posts.
Most people can potentially take advantage of dental implants to restore their smile. However, you will have to have your suitability assessed before you can go ahead with the procedure. Are you a good candidate for dental implants? Let’s find out.
Do You Need Any Other Restorative Dental Work?
One of the first things that your implant dentist will determine is the health and condition of your teeth and whether you are likely to need any other restorative work to your teeth. This is important since any jobs such as fillings, crowns, and root canal should be carried out ahead of receiving dental implants.
Is Your Oral Hygiene Up To Scratch?
Your implant dentist will also be looking to assess your general dental hygiene. This is important because poor brushing and flossing can lead to not only decay but also gum disease. This is an inflammatory condition that occurs when plaque from the teeth spreads onto the gum tissue. Left untreated, gum disease can cause gum recession and bone deterioration, which could put your dental implants at risk.
Do You Have A Strong, Healthy Bone In Your Jaw?
The success of dental implants relies primarily on the viability of your jawbone. This is because the bone needs to heal around the implant posts to secure them permanently into the jaw. If the bone has deteriorated or is weak, it may not be capable of healing around the implant securely. This could put an implant in jeopardy. However, if your bone isn’t healthy enough, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you aren’t a candidate for the procedure. It may just mean that you need a procedure called bone grafting first.
Do You Smoke?
If you smoke, you are likely to be refused candidacy for dental implants. This is because smoking is proven to increase your risk of experiencing gum disease, and as we know, gum disease is a leading cause of dental implant failure.
Other People At Risk Of Poor Outcomes From Dental Implants?
There are several other types of patients that may also be expected to have a poor outcome if they underwent dental implant treatment and so many not be approved candidacy for the procedure. These include:
- Patients who drink excessive amounts of alcohol
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes
- Patients who have had cancer of the mouth/jaw and have had radiation treatment
- Patients who take certain medications such as steroids or drugs that suppress the immune system
- Patients with bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding)
If you would like to discover if you are a good candidate for dental implants, please get in touch with our team who will be delighted to schedule a consultation for you.