Tooth loss can make everyday chewing and speaking difficult. You may also feel unhappy about the way that your smile looks if you have gaps between your teeth. You could also be at risk of even more oral health issues if you do not replace missing teeth with help from your dentist.
Dental implants can offer long-lasting restorative benefits for patients who suffered tooth loss. But this treatment will not suit every patient. Read on to learn three qualities that ideal candidates for dental implants often possess.
Am I Eligible to Receive Dental Implants?
Looking for Permanent Tooth Replacement
Dental implants use a titanium post anchor that a dentist surgically places into a patient’s jawbone. This fuses to the bone as it heals, providing ample support for prosthetic teeth.
Because of this intensive placement of a fixture, these implants are considered permanent tooth replacement solutions. Many patients enjoy the fact that, with implants, they do not have to worry about replacing a device that has worn down. Nor do they have concerns about an appliance slipping out of place at an inopportune moment.
Some dental patients prefer a removable tooth replacement option, such as dentures. They feel more comfortable when they can take their appliance out of their mouths at their leisure. You can discuss your preferences for restorative treatments with your dentist to find the option that best suits you.
Strong Jawbone Structure
The fusion of the anchors of the implants with the patient’s jawbone is a crucial step in the implant dentistry process. This means that your jawbone needs to be strong enough to support this anchor.
Unfortunately, patients with missing teeth may experience a loss of bone in the jaw with a lack of stimulation from a tooth root. If too much of your jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, you might not be able to successfully receive a dental implant.
Your dentist can evaluate the structure of your jaw when you schedule an oral health consultation. They will use x-ray imaging to determine if your jaw is stable enough to sustain an implant. If not, they may suggest an oral surgery called bone grafting to build more of a foundation for the jaw.
Commitment to Long-Term Dental Care
Dental implants involve a multi-step process that will require three or more appointments at your dentist’s office. The ideal patient for this treatment will be prepared to commit to this process and practice patience each step of the way.
After a consultation, your dentist will complete the oral surgery to place the anchors of your implants. These sites can take three months to heal fully. After this, you will return to your dentist to receive your permanent crown, bridge, or denture.
Though some people may seek a more instantaneous restorative dental solution, dental implant patients will enjoy extensive benefits from their fixtures for twenty or more years at the end of this process.