Are you ready to join over 500,000 people this year who are investing in dental implants? With over a 95% success rate and a lifespan of 30 years or more, you’ll never have to worry about replacing your missing teeth again. As the only solution to mimic both the tooth root and the crown, you’ll enjoy a solution that looks and feels natural. Although most people with good oral and general health can benefit from dental implants, they aren’t right for anyone. Here are the key characteristics of a good dental implant candidate.
One or More Missing Teeth
A dental implant can replace a single tooth using a titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. However, you can also replace several or all of your teeth by using dental implants to support a bridge or denture.
Good Oral Health
You must have good oral health to ensure your dental implants succeed. Your dentist will examine your mouth to look for anything concerning, like gum disease. It’s not unusual to require a little prep work before your placement surgery, like gum disease therapy or tooth extractions.
A Healthy Jawbone
An implant post is surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as a new tooth root. Your bone must fuse to it through a process called osseointegration. However, bone loss is a common complication of missing teeth. Your dentist will review a CT scan of your oral structures to ensure your bone can support the post. If not, you may require bone grafting before getting dental implants.
Good Overall Health
Certain health conditions and medications can increase your risk of complications, like autoimmune disorders, osteoporosis, and other issues. You can still be a candidate for the procedure with a few precautions.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits
It’s important to follow a healthy lifestyle with nutritious foods. Dental implants may not be the right choice for smokers or those who drink a lot of alcohol.
Good Oral Hygiene Habits
A preventable infection called peri-implantitis is a common cause of dental implant failure. Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent infection. You must commit to brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing every day.
Regular Cleanings and Checkups
Besides caring for your mouth at home, routine cleanings and checkups are just as important. Your dentist will keep your mouth healthy and detect anything concerning while it is small.
You can enjoy the next best thing to your real teeth with dental implants. Schedule a consultation with your implant dentist to find out if they are right for you.
About Dr. Donald Marks
Dr. Marks achieved his dental degree at the University of Pittsburgh and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, including dental implants. He combines the art and science of dentistry to help each patient achieve their best smile to improve their quality of life. Request an appointment through his website or call (814) 826-3767.
