The growing popularity of dental implants has many people wondering if it would be a good solution for replacing their missing teeth and getting their smile back. However, some qualifying factors go into the decision of whether or not to install implants. Read on to learn whether you’re a good fit or not for the procedure.
Are You in Good Medical Health?
Being in good general health is one of the first criteria for receiving dental implants. Your dentist will want to know your medical history and current medications you take before proceeding with any work.
If you suffer from any mild diseases like diabetes, make sure you treat it and keep it under control. Certain conditions can prevent your body from healing properly after your procedure.
Are Your Gums Healthy?
Healthy gums will offer support to the implants that are placed into your jawbone. Gum disease can cause issues with the soft tissue and bones that support dental implants. Your dentist can treat gum disease, but it will take time to reverse the trend to get a stable foundation for your implants.
Do You Have Enough Bone in Your Jaw?
Implants must be securely anchored to the jawbone. The fusion process helps ensure that implants remain stable and permanent. However, losing teeth over time can cause the jawbone to weaken and shrink, making it unsuitable for implant support.
Fortunately, if your jawbone lacks sufficient density, an oral surgeon can perform bone grafts to promote bone growth, creating enough space for implant placement.
Are you Committed to Oral Hygiene?
If you want successful implants, it’s important that you take care of them like you would natural teeth. Successful care of implants includes:
- Brushing and flossing daily.
- Drinking plenty of water.
- Avoiding hard foods and monitoring your intake of sugar and starch.
- Semi-annual dental visits for checkups, cleanings, and X-rays.
Still unsure if you’re fit for dental implants? Schedule an appointment with your dentist and discuss whether you’d be a good candidate.
About the Practice
For more than 35 years, Gale Ranch Family Dental has proudly served the San Ramon community with comprehensive dentistry for the whole family. Wondering whether you qualify for dental implants? We have 3 oral surgeons and a periodontist on staff to address all your questions and handle the entire dental implant process in-house. To request an appointment, head on over to our website or contact our office at (925) 319-5911.