Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular option for people missing one or more teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them an enticing choice for adults needing tooth replacement. Though this option offers many benefits that other teeth replacement options do not, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Let us look at dental implants and what makes someone a good candidate.

Dental implants explained

Different variations exist on dental implants, but the basic construction is the same:

1. A titanium post is implanted into the jaw bone to act as the replacement root.
2. An abutment is attached to the top of the implant post.
3. The dentist covers the abutment with a porcelain crown, completing this tooth replacement option.

A single implant can support one tooth or several teeth. If an entire arch of teeth needs replacing, 4 to 6 implants can support a denture. In addition to being versatile, a key advantage of the dental implant lies in its titanium post. Unlike other tooth replacement options, the post continues stimulating the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often comes with tooth loss. Also, thanks to the stability of dental implants, the patient does not have to worry about the tooth replacement shifting out of place. Instead, they can talk and chew like they normally would with natural teeth.

Who is a good candidate

There are key characteristics that make someone a good match for dental implants. Here is a closer look at these key characteristics:

Adequate jawbone

A leading requirement for dental implant surgery is adequate jawbone support. A person’s jawbone must be strong and dense enough to support the implant. However, if this is an issue for someone, there are options. A patient can undergo bone grafting surgery or find a style of implant that does not require the same jawbone density.

Good general and dental health

Patients receiving dental implants need to be healthy enough for surgery. In addition, they need healthy gums and surrounding teeth. Any issues with gum disease need to be resolved before beginning this treatment.

Commitment to the process

Getting dental implants is not a quick fix. In most cases, the process can take months. First, it takes several months for the titanium post to integrate into the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Next, if bone grafting is needed, months can be added to the process. Therefore, it is important for patients to understand that the process can be lengthy and involve multiple procedures.

Good dental hygiene

The patient must have good dental hygiene habits. This includes brushing and flossing and carefully cleaning around any dental work. Peri-implantitis is a gum infection similar to periodontitis that can occur in those with dental implants who do not properly care for their mouths.