Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the best replacement solution for missing teeth. They restore function to your bite, last long, and prevent the loss of your jawbone. Osteointegration, where the titanium implant naturally fuses to your jawbone, improves bone growth. In the process, it solidifies the implant in place, restoring function and beauty to your teeth.

Why You Should Get Dental Implants

Dental implants are comfortable and feel like your natural teeth. They eliminate the discomfort of dentures as they become part of you. They make it easier to eat. You can enjoy your favorite fruits and vegetables without cutting them up.

They will improve your speech, and you do not have to worry about them falling out of your mouth. They make it easier to take care of your oral health. Overall, dental implants will give you peace of mind and improve your self-esteem.

Who Is a Candidate?

You should be a good candidate for dental implants if you are healthy enough to undergo tooth extraction or dental surgery. However, there are several things the dentist will check. These are:

Healthy Gums

Your gums and teeth should be in good condition. Unhealthy gums are a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease. You will need the doctor to help resolve that oral condition before fitting you with dental implants. Otherwise, the infection may cause complications. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics.

Good Oral Health and Hygiene

A good candidate for dental implants should not have any infections in their mouth. They can interfere with the surgical procedure. The individual needs to commit to daily brushing and flossing of teeth. It should be a routine since you will need to take exemplary care of your dental implants after the surgery.

You will also need to keep up with your routine follow-up visits to the dentist. They will help you keep your implants and your mouth in top shape.

Good Bone Density

Dental implants need enough bone density. The jawbone provides the implant the necessary support and protection—from anchoring the implant, solidifying it, and restoring oral functions. However, it is still possible to get a dental implant if you suffer from jawbone loss.

For that, you will need a bone grafting procedure and wait several weeks for it to heal. Bone grafting involves taking a piece of bone from one part of your body or using a specific bone grafting material. The doctor grafts this into your jawbone. It strengthens it and forms a stable anchor for dental implants.

A Non-smoker

Smoking affects any surgical procedure. It slows down the healing process and allows for infections that may lead to complications. It also hinders the absorption of nutrients that the body needs for healing, reducing the chances of a successful implant. If you are willing, you can quit smoking.

You will have to quit several weeks before your procedure. The doctor can create a plan for you that will help urge you on and motivate you to quit.

For more information on candidates for dental implants, call kksmiles at (770) 830-3700 to reach our office in Marietta, Georgia.