If you’re living with missing teeth, you’ve probably wondered whether dental implants are the best way to restore your smile. Modern dentistry has made implant treatment one of the most reliable and long-lasting tooth replacement options available, but not everyone is a suitable candidate.
So, am I a candidate for dental implants? The answer depends on several key factors, including your oral health, bone structure and general health. The answer to all of these will be clearer after your dental professional carries out a full assessment and decides whether dental implants are the answer to your dental issues.
To book an appointment at New Ash Green Dental and Aesthetics, click here, call 01474 873 455 or email hello@newashgreendentalandaesthetics.com today and learn more about why dental implants are the gold standard for missing teeth.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that replace missing teeth by providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth.
The tooth root, which is a small titanium implant, is placed into the jawbone during implant surgery. Once the surgery is completed, we wait for the healing process to run its course, during which the implant bonds with the surrounding bone through a process known as bone integration.
Once fully healed, the final tooth, usually a crown, is securely attached to complete your smile.
Dental implants work much like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak and smile with confidence.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?
The key question we are trying to answer is whether you are an ideal candidate for dental implants, and how to determine that.
So, let’s start there!
First and foremost, a suitable candidate for dental implants is generally someone with good overall health and healthy gums.
Your dentist will assess:
- Overall oral health
- Gum health
- Bone density
- Bone volume
- Medical history
- Lifestyle habits
Ultimately, it comes down to having healthy gums and adequate jawbone density. Luckily, even if you’ve experienced bone loss, advanced treatments such as bone grafting or a sinus lift may make implant placement possible.
Why Bone Density Matters
Bone density matters because without it, it would be less likely to be able to fit the titanium roots in place to hold the implant securely. This is why the initial consultation and full assessment of your mouth is so vital.
If your dentist can see that you fall short of the required amount of bone density to support a dental implant, procedures such as bone grafting can rebuild surrounding bone tissue and create a stable foundation before implant surgery takes place.
Healthy Gums Are Essential
Healthy gums are almost as important when it comes to preventing implant failure. To ensure everything goes to plan, any gum problems should be treated to improve healing and ensure the best possible outcome.
Your Medical History
Another key factor that plays a role is your medical history, as certain medical conditions can influence whether you’re a candidate for dental implants.
During your oral examination, your dental team will review your medical history and discuss factors that may affect healing, including:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Conditions that reduce blood flow
- Medications that affect bone health
- Smoking and other lifestyle habits
As mentioned earlier in this guide, being generally healthy improves the likelihood of successful implant placement. Before you panic, it is still possible for many patients with controlled medical conditions to receive dental implants safely. This is why they are the gold standard for missing teeth, and a go-to choice for many dental clinics.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Absolutely, they are, as long as the treatment is carried out by experienced professionals. Thanks to the advances made in restorative dentistry and implant techniques, dental implants have one of the most successful tooth replacement options available today.
With proper care, good oral hygiene and routine checkups, implants can provide a long-term solution that may last for many years, and often, a lifetime.
Are There Other Tooth Replacement Options?
So, what if dental implants are a no-go for you?
Well, although dental implants are often the preferred option, they are not the only treatment available.
Depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may also discuss:
- Dental bridges
- Loose denture replacement
- Other tooth replacement options
By going to a trusted dental professional, you can guarantee the proper care and advice regarding the most appropriate treatment for you.
Why Choose New Ash Green Dental & Aesthetics?
The reason many patients choose New Ash Green Dental & Aesthetics is that you can guarantee your dental implant placement will be performed by an experienced dental team.
More importantly, during your dental implant process, we can answer questions you have clearly with full transparency, which will give confidence for the success of your implant.
Click here, call 01474 873 455 or email hello@newashgreendentalandaesthetics.com to book your appointment today, and let’s get your smile complete again!
