Many people are viable candidate to receive dental implants. However, there are a few factors that are essential to ensure a dental implant procedure can be performed successfully. Be sure and talk to your dentist to understand how a dental implant procedure might impact you.
Who should get dental implants?
When it comes time to replace your tooth or teeth with dental implants, there are a few things your dentist will consider. They include:
Healthy Gums
A successful dental implant procedure requires gums that are disease free. If you’re currently suffering from periodontal (gum) disease, visit your dentist to find a way to get it under control. If you have had gum disease in the past, but it is no longer an issue, your dentist will be able to assess if your gums are healthy enough for you to be a viable candidate.
Good Jawbone Mass
Because the dental implant will serve as an anchor for your replacement crown, your jawbone must be able to accommodate it and allow it to be attached securely in place. For that to happen, there needs to be the right amount of strong, healthy bone mass.
The good news is that if your jawbone is lacking, your oral surgeon will most likely be able to conduct a bone graft (with either your own bone or synthetic material) to fortify the area enough for the dental implant.
Good Oral Hygiene
Although the success rate for dental implants is an impressive 95%, if you are not committed to good oral hygiene, you can make yourself vulnerable to infection and other issues during the healing process. That means careful daily brushing and flossing, plus regular dental visits.
Who Should not Get Dental Implants?
There are some factors that dentists may advise against getting a dental implant. These include:
Age
If you’re under 18, it’s generally better to wait for the bones to stop growing before receiving a dental implant.
Pregnancy
It’s best to wait until you have had your baby to consider dental implants.
Heavy Smoking
In addition to smoking being linked to a number of dental issues (from oral cancer to cavities), it also generally hinders healing in the mouth. However, if you can avoid smoking during the dental implant process, you may be considered for this procedure.
Alcohol or Substance Abuse
While the physical toll alcohol and drug abuse can take on oral health is obviously a concern, the other factor to consider is taking responsibility for follow up care, dental visits, and protocol.
High-Dose Radiation
High-dose radiation of the head or neck can cause injury to the jaw and may make you a less viable candidate for dental implants.
Illness
If you suffer from any of the following diseases, it’s important to consult with your dentist. There is a strong chance you may not be a good candidate. However, that decision can’t be made without knowing the full extent and severity of your condition.
- Unmanaged diabetes
- Cancer
- Hemophilia
- Osteoporosis
- Immune deficiency
Discuss these considerations with your dentist to help determine if dental implants are right for you.
Considering implants? Dentistry.com can help you find a dentist near you.