Dental implants are a durable, permanent solution to replacing lost teeth. But unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for this treatment. If you’ve got gaps in your smile due to missing teeth, here’s what you need to know about qualifying for dental implants, and what you can do if you don’t.
ü Have Healthy Gum Tissue
Periodontal disease can cause more than just bleeding gums. It can also increase your risk of gum recession, tooth loss, and bone deterioration, all of which can raise your odds of dental implant failure. Thus, before you’re ready to undergo dental implant surgery, you’ll need to treat any gum issues first.
ü Take Great Care of Your Smile
Much like your natural teeth, your dental implants won’t survive if you don’t take care of them. Thus, be committed to brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist twice a year for your regular cleaning and exam, even if you have no remaining natural teeth.
ü Have Good Jawbone Density
If your jawbones are weak due to deterioration from inadequate stimulation, your dental implants are more likely to fail. Thus, if you have been missing teeth for a long time, you may need a bone graft procedure before you can undergo dental implant surgery. In some cases, you may not be a good candidate at all, and your dentist will happily discuss alternative treatment options like dental bridges or dentures.
ü Have No Chronic Illnesses
Chronic illnesses like diabetes are not an automatic disqualification for dental implants; however, this depends on the condition of your oral health. The implant success rate for diabetic patients is about 93 percent while it sits at around 98 percent for those without, because diabetes contributes to a higher risk of cavities, gum disease, and can even make healing take longer.
Other illnesses that may make surgery difficult include heart disease and sleep apnea, both of which could interfere with anesthesia, so be sure to discuss your full medical history with your dentist at your dental implant consultation.
ü Don’t Drink Excessively or Smoke
While it is okay to consume some alcohol with dental implants, it can slow healing after surgery and contribute to bone deterioration that can cause implant failure. Thus, abstain from alcohol until your implants are completely healed, and consume it sparingly after.
Smoking cigarettes has proven dangerous for both your oral and overall health. Tobacco thins the blood, making it harder to heal from dental implant surgery. It also increases your risk of gum disease, as well as implant failure post- procedure.
Remember, while there are no guarantees, much of the success of your new dental implants is up to you. If you are in good health and committed to caring for your implants properly, you are likely a good candidate for this life-changing treatment.
About Our Practice
At Care 32 Dental of Fort Worth, we use the latest in dental technology to make your treatment as comfortable and efficient as possible. If you’re missing one or more permanent teeth and are curious about whether dental implants can help, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled and caring dentists. We’ll be happy to go over everything this treatment entails, including how to improve your odds of implant success.
To get started restoring your smile, schedule your dental implant consultation today by visiting our website or calling us at 817-741-1300.