Did you know that almost anyone with missing teeth can qualify for dental implants? Of course, before approving you for the procedure, your dentist will need to make sure that you meet certain requirements. What are the most important things they will consider? This blog post explains the top five qualities of a good candidate for dental implants.
Your Jawbone Can Support Implants
Dental implants get inserted into the jawbone and must form a strong bond with it. Therefore, the bone must be healthy enough and large enough to support them.
If your jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, gum disease, facial trauma, or other conditions, it may not provide a suitable base for your new teeth. In such cases, a bone graft may be recommended to build up the jawbone so your mouth becomes a better environment for dental implants.
You Are Free of Gum Disease
Healthy gums play a critical role in dental implant success. If you have gum disease, it can compromise the tissues surrounding your implants and cause them to fail.
Any occurrence of gum disease, even if it is mild, should be adequately addressed before you get dental implants. This might involve changes to your oral hygiene routine, a deep professional cleaning, or other interventions. Once you are free of active gum disease, your dentist may determine that you qualify to receive implants.
You Are Healthy Enough to Undergo Minor Surgery
Dental implant placement is a minor surgical procedure that requires a degree of physical health and stability. If you have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular issues, these issues need to be under control before you embark on your tooth replacement journey.
Be sure to be open and honest about your medical history with your dentist so they can accurately assess your candidacy for the implant procedure. If necessary, work with your primary care practitioner or specialists to create a plan that will support your overall health and help you become eligible for dental implants.
You Have Good Oral Care Habits
Good oral hygiene habits are essential for maintaining the health of dental implants. Thorough brushing and flossing help to get rid of harmful bacteria that could otherwise proliferate and attack the tissues around your new teeth, eventually causing a dangerous infection that could lead to dental implant failure. If your dentist knows you have a history of taking good care of your oral health, they will feel more confident in their decision to move forward with your implant procedure.
You Avoid Bad Habits
Certain habits can negatively affect dental implants, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and slows healing, thereby increasing the risk of implant failure. Alcohol can also disrupt your body’s healing process. Your dentist will carefully assess your lifestyle choices and may advise you to discontinue harmful habits before you undergo the implant procedure.
Do you believe you are a good candidate for dental implants? Talk to your dentist to learn how you can qualify for this remarkable form of tooth replacement.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Kelsey Hill is a highly skilled implant dentist in Falmouth, ME. She has completed extensive continuing education courses in the implant process, and she enjoys every aspect of helping patients rebuild their smiles. If you would like to find out if dental implants are right for you, Dr. Hill and our team are ready to welcome you in for a consultation. Contact our office at 207-797-3130.