Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are ideal for someone who is missing one or more teeth. This popular oral restoration apparatus is an artificial tooth that holds either a bridge or replacement tooth. There are two main types of dental implants you can have: endosteal or subperiosteal. Endosteal dental implants are the more common type of implants and it is surgically placed into your jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of your jawbone, rather than inside it.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Even though dental implants are an effective and long-lasting oral care solution, not everyone is a candidate for them. How can you know if you’re a good candidate for them? Here are some factors for ideal dental implant candidates:
● Good gums. Since dental implants are aligned very closely with your gums, your gums must be in good health. If you have gum disease or periodontal disease, you will not be considered a good candidate for dental implants.
● Good bone density. Similar to needing healthy gums, having good bone density makes it easier for dental implants. You need a sufficient amount of bone in order to adequately support your dental implant.
● Good oral care. Besides the missing teeth that are being treated with a dental implant, good dental implant candidates have a well-cared for mouth.
● Patience. While most factors for dental implant candidates revolve around the mouth itself, patience is a very large factor. Your mouth can take a long time to heal after the procedure. Sometimes it can take 6 months to completely heal. The entire process, from the initial appointments to the procedure to healing time, can take from 4 months to a year. This long process is because the implants can only be placed on the grafted bone after it’s had time to heal. Then, once the implants are placed, they have to heal before crowns can be placed. Patience is very important when considering dental implant candidates.
● Other factors. There are numerous other factors to consider, like non-smokers, or people willing to quit during the duration of the process, are preferred. Also, those who have diseases or disorders that hinder the body’s healing process will not be considered as good dental candidates.
Best Way to Decide
The best and easiest way to decide if you’re a good candidate for dental implants is to make an appointment with us. Our dental experts will be able to review your history and see what’s going on in your mouth and be able to make a decision. Don’t wait for better oral care! Give us a call today at (610) 865-4222.