More than 500,000 Americans are choosing dental implants to replace their missing teeth because they are unlike any other treatment. A dental implant is the only method of treating both the tooth root and the crown, providing a close replica of a real tooth. With over a 95% success rate and a 30-year life expectancy, they are a wise investment, but are they right for you? The good news is that most people are candidates for dental implants. Here are a few good qualities of the ideal dental implant candidate.
Good Oral Health
The overall success of dental implants relies on your jaw fusing with your posts and keeping your mouth infection-free. Healthy teeth and gums are essential for dental implant success. It’s not unusual to require a little prep work before getting dental implants, like gum disease treatment or tooth extraction. Your dentist will ensure your mouth is healthy during your initial consultation.
Good Overall Wellness
Most patients with good overall health can benefit from dental implants. However, certain medical conditions and medications may increase your risk of infections or delayed healing. That doesn’t mean you can’t get dental implants. Instead, your implant dentist may take certain precautions during and after your procedure.
A Healthy Jawbone
Your jawbone must be healthy to get dental implants. A titanium post is surgically placed into your jaw to serve as a new tooth root. Your bone must integrate with the post through a process called osseointegration. Low bone density in your jaw can cause osseointegration to fail.
Your dentist will review a CT scan of your oral structures to ensure your jaw can support your implants. If you’ve experienced bone loss, you may require bone grafting before your placement surgery.
Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Dental implants can last for decades with good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing will keep peri-implantitis at bay, which is a leading cause of dental implant failure. It’s an infection that’s like gum disease, which is caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup. Good oral hygiene habits will remove plaque to keep your gums healthy.
A Commitment to Regular Dental Care
Regular dental care is equally important as brushing and flossing. The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. Visiting your dentist twice a year will keep your mouth healthy and allow them to monitor your dental implants for any concerning changes. Prompt treatment can prevent dental implant failure.
You can benefit from the most revolutionary treatment for tooth loss. Your dentist will learn more about your oral health and medical history to ensure dental implants are the right solution for you.
About Dr. Bryan Villescas
Dr. Villescas achieved his dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has continued his education in various advanced procedures, including dental implants, sinus augmentation, and bone grafting. He is an affiliate of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (941) 229-8181.