Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people have or have had a missing tooth at some point. If you have a missing tooth, replacement treatment is perfect for you. You can get dental implants to replace natural teeth. They look and feel natural and offer a great option, whether you are missing one or several teeth. 

Implants fuse with the jawbone to create a permanent and secure teeth replacement. Here are ways to know if you are a candidate for dental implants. 

Good Oral Hygiene Practices

A good candidate for dental implants is someone who practices good oral hygiene. It means you must brush and floss your teeth daily and follow a good oral regimen. Regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleaning help keep your teeth healthy. 

Good oral health is vital for the success of dental restoration treatment. You will need to maintain the routine after the restoration to keep the implants in good shape. 

Adequate Bone Density 

To be a good candidate for dental implants, you should have adequate jaw bone density. The jaw bone supports the implant. Without enough bone, you may not qualify for implants. 

However, if you still prefer this dental restoration option, a bone graft can help to provide adequate support. A natural or synthetic bone is grafted in the area with the missing tooth, creating support for the implant. 

Healthy Teeth and Gums

A healthy smile is necessary for an individual to qualify for a dental implant procedure. You should not have gum disease or tooth decay to get dental restoration. Healthy gums are essential to ensure that the implants have good support. 

If you have an existing oral health issue, the dentist will provide treatment for the condition before the restoration. Healthy gums will help ensure that you qualify for the dental implant procedure. 

Smoking or Chewing Tobacco

To be a good candidate for dental implants, you must avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. Smoking increases the risk of dental implant failure. The unhealthy habit can affect the healing process and increase the risk of infection. 

To qualify and protect your oral health, you should quit smoking altogether or stop before, during, and after the implant procedure. Your dentist can recommend resources to help you kick the habit. 

You Do Not Have Bruxism

Bruxism is a condition characterized by grinding or clenching of the teeth. It is something that usually happens while the patient is asleep. Teeth grinding can damage the tooth surface, and clenching can weaken the roots. 

The condition can also affect the jaw, leading to pain and other problems. Excessive pressure can cause dental implant failure. If you have bruxism, talk to your dentist about custom nightguards that can help protect your teeth and smile. 

To determine if you qualify for dental implants, the dentist will consider why you lost the tooth or teeth. An evaluation is essential, and treatment will depend on the severity of the condition. The procedure can take four to 12 months, so you should be patient through the installation and healing period. The treatment requires a long-term commitment. 

For more on whether you are a candidate for dental implants, call Jonny Fisher DDS at (509) 383-8300 to reach our Pullman, Washington office.