Dental implants are gaining popularity as the top choice for tooth replacement. They offer the most natural function and appearance possible in a dental prosthetic. Patients often report that after a brief adjustment period, they forget that they have implants at all.
If you’ve been considering getting dental implants, you may be wondering if you’re a candidate. Not everyone is immediately eligible for dental implants, but after some preparation the possibilities open up.
To get a professional opinion, trust the experts at Farr Family Dentistry. After a brief consultation and evaluation, we can make a recommendation for the best tooth replacement option for you.
What Dental Implants Are and Why Patients Choose Them
A dental implant is a replacement tooth root made of titanium. It fuses with the jawbone to provide a solid anchor for a dental prosthetic. A single dental implant and crown combination is ideal for replacing one missing or unsalvageable tooth. Multiple dental implants can support larger prosthetics such as bridges and dentures to replace more or all of your teeth at once.
Patients often choose dental implants due to their many benefits:
- Stability. Dental implants provide a secure anchor for dental prosthetics of all kinds from crowns to bridges to dentures.
- Natural appearance. Implants mimic natural tooth roots, which helps them look more realistic than other types of prosthetics.
- Natural function. Implants provide the same chewing strength as your natural teeth, allowing you to eat the foods you enjoy without concern.
- Long term durability. Dental implants can last for decades, or even a lifetime in many cases with good care and maintenance.
Bone Density and Jaw Health Requirements
The biggest consideration in eligibility for dental implants is the health and density of your jaw bone. The bone must be thick enough, wide enough, and strong enough for a dental implant to be placed. Without adequate space and bone strength, there is a higher risk of implant failure.
Why might bone density be an issue? Because when one or more teeth have been missing for a period of time, the body gradually resorps (dissolves) the bone tissue. The longer teeth have been missing, the greater the degree of bone loss.
But having insufficient bone density does not completely disqualify you for dental implants, it may just delay the process. Bone grafting is a preparatory procedure that stimulates regeneration of lost bone tissue. It can take a few months, but when successful it can make dental implants a possibility for you.
Gum Health and Overall Oral Condition
A common reason for missing teeth is gum disease. When it progresses to the advanced stages it can cause the support structures for the teeth to deteriorate, resulting in loose or lost teeth. Existing gum disease needs to be treated and the damage reversed before moving forward with dental implants.
Overall Health and Lifestyle Factors
General health conditions can affect your eligibility for dental implants. Health conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and autoimmune diseases increase the risk of dental implant failure. Lifestyle factors are also taken into consideration, such as smoking which hinders healing and is one of the biggest threats to dental implant success. It is important that you are honest during health discussions with the dentist.
Age and Timing Considerations
Implants are suitable for adults of all ages once jaw growth is complete. Children and teens are not candidates for dental implants as their jaws are still growing and developing. But as for adults there is no such thing as being too old for dental implants. As long as your oral and overall health are good, you can be considered.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene and Follow Up Care
Daily oral hygiene is crucial to dental implant success. If you are unable to keep up with daily brushing and flossing, you may not be an ideal candidate for dental implants. Regular dental visits are also necessary to maintain your oral health and ensure your implants last.
The Dental Implant Evaluation Process at Farr Family Dentistry
During a dental implant consultation your dentist will explain the procedure and gather a complete medical history. Then an evaluation will be conducted that includes a visual exam and digital imaging to assess jaw bone density. Customized treatment planning is the final step toward your restoration.
Is Dental Implant Treatment Right for You? Let’s Find Out
Ready to take the first step in your dental implant journey? Call 478-223-9975 or contact us to schedule a consultation with Farr Family Dentistry to find out if dental implants are the right solution for your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Can I still get dental implants if I have bone loss?
Bone grafting or other treatments may make implants possible for patients with inadequate bone structure in their jaw.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades and even a lifetime for some. The key is excellent care and maintenance through daily oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
At Farr Family Dentistry we believe patients should have options when it comes to their care. We strive to help you achieve your oral health and smile goals through personalized treatment plans and a patient-centered philosophy. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.