Who Is a Candidate for a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is the most reliable method of treating tooth loss. It’s the only solution to replace both the tooth root and the crown. Whether you’re missing one tooth, several teeth, or all of them, you might be a candidate for dental implants. Although most people with good oral and general health can benefit from the treatment, they aren’t right for everyone. Here are a few qualities of a great dental implant candidate.

Good Dental Health

Dental implants have over a 95% success rate; however, your mouth must be healthy. Your dentist will examine your mouth to look for anything concerning, like gum inflammation. They will also review a CT scan to ensure there aren’t any issues not visible from the surface, like bone loss. Don’t worry if your dentist finds anything concerning. It’s not unusual to require a little prep work, like tooth extractions, gum disease treatment, or bone grafting. 

Good Overall Health

Dental implants are not always recommended for patients with certain underlying health issues that may prevent their jaw from integrating with their post. Your dentist will learn more about your health history and any medications you’re taking to ensure there’s nothing concerning. If you have pre-existing health conditions, you may still be a candidate for dental implants. Your implant dentist will create a personalized plan to ensure your safety.

Regular Dental Care

The long-term success of your new smile will depend on the right aftercare. Good oral hygiene is the secret to getting the most from your investment. Dental implants are recommended for patients who can commit to brushing their teeth for 2 minutes at least twice daily. You must also floss every day. Besides caring for your mouth at home, you must visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. 

Benefit from Long-Lasting Results

Over 500,000 people every year invest in dental implants. They offer exceptional benefits not possible using any other method, like:

• Look and Feel Natural: A titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as a new tooth root. It will support your custom-made restoration that will look like a real tooth. Only a trained dental professional will know it isn’t natural.
• Jawbone Preservation: A dental implant is the only method to stop bone loss caused by missing teeth to maintain a youthful appearance and improve your oral health.
• Cost-Effective: Dental implants can last for decades and reduce your risk of needing costly procedures to save money down the road. 

Your dentist will learn more about your goals to ensure dental implants are the best solution to fill the gaps in your smile. 

About Dr. Sweeta Walia

Dr. Sweeta Walia achieved her dental degree at Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine and has continued her training in dental implants and many other specialties. She is a master of implant prosthesis. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (972) 288-3200.