Are you weary of the problems that come with tooth loss or extensive dental damage? Dental implants are the ideal form of tooth replacement because they look and function just like real teeth, they can last for thirty-five years or even a lifetime with proper care, and they boast a success rate greater than 95%. Part of this success is that you must have a consultation before receiving them to ensure you are a good candidate. Here’s a brief overview of what makes dental implants so successful as well as a few tips for making yours last for as long as possible.
Dental Implants Need Healthy Bone Structure
Dental implants are designed to be surgically placed directly into the jawbone, so they need the jaw to have enough bone mass to support them. Insufficient bone mass cannot give the implants the hold they need to last long and work well, which makes them more likely to fail sooner. Unfortunately, the bone structure in the jaw that supports a tooth begins to atrophy and recede after a tooth is lost due to a lack of exercise, and this can eventually leave the empty socket with too little bone mass to host an implant.
If your jawbones are too thin to support a dental implant, there’s no reason to despair. Many patients with thin jawbones can become excellent candidates for dental implants after receiving bone graft treatments and fully healing afterward. Your dentist will be able to tell you if this can be an effective way for you to become eligible for the procedure.
Dental Implants Need Healthy Gums
Dental implants depend on the gum tissue around them for support. While advanced gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, many patients with unhealthy gums can become good candidates for dental implants through periodontal treatments and improved oral hygiene. Once the gum disease has been cleared up, you may be ready to undergo the procedure.
Dental Implants Require a Commitment to Proper Oral Care
The lifespan of your dental implants depends greatly on how well you heal after receiving them. To prevent oral infections that can lead to implant failure, it’s important to practice the same oral hygiene routine as you should for real teeth which includes brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash. It’s also important to avoid bad habits such as excessive sugar consumption, excessive drinking, using your teeth as tools, and smoking. It’s best to quit smoking a few weeks before receiving dental implants to ensure their success.
Dental implants can be a wonderful way to restore a compromised smile. Consulting with your dentist can determine if you can be a good candidate for the treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Peter A. Pate earned his dental degree at the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry and worked as a dentist at the Walter Reed Army Hospital while serving in the Army. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Georgia Dental Association. His office in Atlanta, GA, offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To schedule a dental implant consultation, contact his office online or dial (404) 266-9424.