Tooth loss can significantly impact your quality of life. You might feel self-conscious about gaps in your smile or struggle to complete your usual oral capabilities. You can find long-lasting help from your dentist when you replace missing teeth with dental implants.
These dental fixtures offer both restorative and cosmetic benefits for patients after tooth loss. But despite its effectiveness, not every patient is eligible for this dental solution. Read on to learn about three characteristics that make dental patients ideal for implant dentistry treatments.
3 Qualities of Implant Dentistry Candidates
Seeking Permanent Tooth Replacements
Dental implants stay in place in the mouth thanks to surgically placed anchors made from titanium posts in the jaw. They fuse to the bone there, providing optimal support for the prosthetic teeth.
Many dental patients appreciate that the devices will remain fixed in place this way. They do not have to worry about appliances slipping out of place at inopportune moments.
However, some people feel more comfortable with removable tooth replacement solutions. They can take appliances out of their mouth when not in use, such as while sleeping. This can put less pressure on their gums and also serve as a more affordable treatment option.
If you prefer a removable treatment, you might not want to get dental implants. Discuss your ideal appliances with your dentist to find a solution that best suits your unique needs.
Possessing Stable Jawbone
Because dental implants rely on the fusion with the jawbone to sustain the prosthetic teeth, you will need strong bone in the jaw to receive this treatment. Tooth loss means that the tooth root that usually stimulates the bone in the jaw will be absent. Without stimulation, the jawbone may deteriorate.
Dental implants can replace the missing tooth root using anchors. But if too much bone has already been lost, the jaw might not be stable enough to successfully receive the surgically placed anchors.
In this case, your dentist may suggest a bone graft to add more structure to the jaw. Otherwise, you might need to pursue alternative tooth replacement treatment. Your dentist can check your jawbone health through x-ray imaging taken during a consult appointment.
Exhibiting Commitment to the Implant Process
Dental implants provide effective and long-lasting restoration of the mouth after tooth loss. But you will not see immediate results from this treatment. You will need to schedule three or more sessions with your dentist in order to complete the implant process.
You will begin with a consultation with your dentist to determine if dental implants are the best option for your smile. Then you will have oral surgery to place the anchors for your devices. You will need a few months to heal from this procedure and have the anchors fuse with the jawbone.
Once you recover, you will return to your dentist’s office to receive your prosthetic teeth. When they are in place, you will see enhancement in your smile and restoration of your oral function.
But an ideal implant candidate will need to commit to this lengthy process and show patience during the treatment. They should look at the big picture and know that the end results will be worth it.