Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth, but a patient will need to meet certain criteria in order to qualify for them. Implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95%, and one of the reasons they are so successful is that every patient must have a consultation with their dentist to confirm that they are a good candidate for treatment. Here are several of the qualities that make for an excellent dental implant candidate along with a few ways you may be able to achieve them.
Good Physical Health
The success of dental implants greatly depends on the patient’s ability to heal properly after having them surgically placed, and the patient’s healing ability greatly depends on the state of their medical health. Issues such as uncontrolled diabetes or a recent cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke may preclude you from receiving dental implants. However, dental implants can usually be placed once a person’s diabetes is properly managed, and a recent cardiac event often only requires the implant surgery to be postponed until a later date.
Healthy Jawbones
Dental implants behave just like real teeth because they are surgically inserted into the jawbone where they fuse with the surrounding bone tissue to create a sturdy hold. Unfortunately, tooth loss deprives the jaws of the exercise they need to stay strong and healthy, meaning that they will begin to atrophy and recede shortly afterward. If your jaws are too thin to support dental implants, you may be able to reinforce them with bone grafting treatments and receive implants later. Dental implants restore the lost exercise to the jaw, which can prevent or even reverse bone loss.
Healthy Gums
Gum disease is the leading cause of dental implant failure, so any gingivitis or periodontitis must be cleared up before the appliances can be placed. This can be done through improved oral hygiene in the early stages of gum disease or periodontal treatments from your dentist in its later stages. Smoking is terrible for your gums and the rest of your mouth and a common factor in dental implant failure, so you must quit smoking at least two weeks before surgery until a few months afterward. If you have to quit for that long anyway, why not quit altogether?
Receiving dental implants can allow you to enjoy a complete and beautiful smile. After your consultation, your dentist will be able to tell you if you can be a good candidate and what you need to get there.
About the Author
Dr. Henry Diep earned his dental degree at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ, and stays abreast of the latest dental advancements by taking continuing education courses. He is proud to be a member of the California Dental Association. His office in Hayward, CA, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To learn more about being an excellent dental implant candidate, contact the office online or dial (510) 314-8426.