If you are one of the millions of Americans who are missing one tooth or more, then you may be eligible for dental implants. Dental implants are advisable to prevent bone deterioration and are perhaps the most durable of all dental restorations. However, having a missing tooth is not the only factor to consider. In this article, we will go over the points that affect your eligibility for dental implants.
There are several factors that determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Here are some things to consider:
- Overall health: You should be in good general health to undergo dental implant surgery. This means that you should not have any chronic medical conditions that can affect the healing process, such as diabetes or heart disease.
- Jawbone density: Dental implants require a certain amount of jawbone density to support the implant. If you have lost too much bone due to gum disease or other reasons, you may need a bone graft before the implant can be placed.
- Gum health: Healthy gums are essential for successful dental implant surgery. If you have gum disease, it will need to be treated before the implant can be placed.
- Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is critical to the success of dental implants. If you have a history of poor oral hygiene, you may need to improve your habits before undergoing the procedure.
- Age: There is no age limit for dental implants, but younger patients may need to wait until their jawbone has finished growing before undergoing the procedure.
- Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after dental implant surgery. If you smoke, your dentist may recommend that you quit before undergoing the procedure.
If you are interested in dental implants, the best thing to do is to schedule a consultation with a dentist who specializes in implant dentistry. They can evaluate your individual situation and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.