SO, YOU HAVE HEARD ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS and the fantastic benefits they provide in your life. You even know a bit of what is to expect from the dental implant procedure itself. But how do you know if you are a good candidate? What are the requirements you need to be approved to receive this life-changing operation?
What are dental implants, and why are they incredible?
Dental implants are small titanium tooth roots surgically placed in the jaw bone where the missing tooth is. The titanium root fuses to your jawbone, creating a permanent foundation for a replacement crown. Implants are different from other options because they replace both the tooth and the root. Dental implant surgery can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full set.
Implants look so much like natural teeth many of your friends and family won’t see a difference. The new permanent root holds your new teeth solidly in place, preventing the slippage commonly associated with removable dentures that cause slurring. With implants, you speak with clarity and confidence, knowing your teeth won’t budge at all.
Implants are comfortable because they become a part of you and feel just like natural teeth. Another bonus of being locked in place is while enjoying a meal. Traditional dentures slip and slide when you chew. But dental implants in Whitby work like natural teeth, allowing you to eat all your favorite foods again.
What are the requirements for dental implants?
Having gaps in your smile can lead to tooth shifting and deterioration of the gums and jawbone, which, in turn, can even change the shape of your face. Beyond that, there is the apparent nosedive in overall confidence when losing a tooth.
At GT Dental Centre, we suggest replacing missing teeth sooner than later to spare you more expensive treatments in the future. Read on to know what you need to be a good candidate for this process.
First and foremost, you need to have enough bone support in your jaw. Dental implants must fuse with your jawbone to be effective, so bone density and quality are vital. A jawbone needs to be fully developed before this option is a possibility, which takes children and their underdeveloped jaws out of the loop.
However, inadequate bone support is not always a deal-breaker. In some cases, bone grafts can be used to help patients who otherwise wouldn’t qualify to get the implants they need.
The dental implant procedure requires sedation and recovery. So overall, good health is a must. Patients with poor oral health—smokers, people who consume too much alcohol, or diabetics—have lower than average success rates. Implants that fail are common among patients who are at a higher risk for gum disease.
The ideal candidates for dental implants in Whitby have a real commitment to oral health. The success of your procedure rests on maintaining excellent dental hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular follow-up visits with your dentist, are critical.
The only accurate way to know if you’re a good candidate for implants is to have a dental exam and X-rays so we can evaluate your unique situation. The clinical exam is the only way to know.
If you are missing teeth and have any questions about dental implants in Whitby and your likelihood as a candidate, we encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to answer all your questions about implants and the future of your smile.