Are You a Dental Implant Candidate?
Dental implants have revolutionized the field of dentistry, offering a permanent solution to tooth loss. They provide not only aesthetic benefits but also functional advantages, closely mimicking natural teeth. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants.
To learn more about your candidacy for dental implants, contact our Wylie dentist today by scheduling an appointment at (214) 702-0446.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
General Health Considerations
Your overall health plays a significant role in determining your eligibility for dental implants. Candidates should generally:
- Be in good general health.
- Have no serious chronic illnesses or conditions that impair healing.
- Be free from periodontal disease or other oral health issues, such as tooth decay.
Sufficient Bone Density
For an implant to be successful, there must be enough bone in the jaw to support it. Bone density can be assessed through various imaging techniques. If you lack sufficient bone density, procedures like bone grafting can sometimes be performed to enhance the bone structure.
Non-Smokers
Smoking can significantly impair the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. While smokers can still receive implants, quitting smoking before and after the procedure can improve their chances of success.
Age Considerations
While dental implants are suitable for adults of all ages, younger patients must have fully developed jawbones. This typically means waiting until late adolescence or early adulthood.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the success of dental implants. Candidates must be committed to regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to ensure the longevity of their implants.
Special Considerations and Contraindications
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can affect your suitability for dental implants. These include:
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can impair healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Heart Conditions: Certain heart conditions may require special precautions.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can affect healing.
- Cancer: Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy may need to wait until treatment is complete.
Medications
Some medications can impact the success of dental implants, including:
- Bisphosphonates: Used to treat osteoporosis, these can affect bone healing.
Steroids: Long-term steroid use can impair healing.
Previous Dental Work
Existing dental restorations or previous surgeries can influence implant placement. Your dentist will evaluate your dental history to determine the best course of action.
Supplemental Procedures
While dental implants are a highly effective restorative procedure for missing teeth, some people may need to undergo supplemental procedures before their dental implant procedure.
These procedures include:
- Bone Grafting: If you have lost a significant amount of jawbone, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the jawbone before the implant can be placed.
- Sinus Lift: If you’re missing upper back teeth, a sinus lift may be necessary to raise the sinus floor and make room for the implant.
- Ridge Augmentation: If the area where the implant is needed is too narrow or has a shallow ridge, ridge augmentation may be necessary to build up the area and provide a stable foundation for the implant.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, those with active gum disease or an untreated oral infection won’t be a good candidate for dental implants. The implant placement procedure requires a healthy jawbone and gums, so any active gum infections or diseases must be treated before the tooth implant can be placed.
Smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure, so individuals who smoke may not be good candidates for dental implants. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your overall oral health, including your smoking history, to determine if dental implants are a suitable option for you.
Individuals with systemic diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and certain autoimmune disorders may be at an increased risk for implant complications and infections. Similarly, those suffering from osteoporosis, or taking medications for bone deterioration, may also have a higher likelihood of implant complications.
Determine Your Dental Implant Candidacy with Our Wylie Dentist!
Do you think dental implants are the best treatment for you? For those in Wylie, or its surrounding areas, including Murphy, Parker, or Lucas, TX, contact our dentist today at (214) 702-0446 to schedule your appointment. We’ll guide you through the treatment steps and see if you qualify for dental implants.